My Story

Hi, I’m Matt, owner of Barkmatter and physicist turned dog trainer (hence the naming pun). My journey into dog training started in 2021 when I welcomed a dachshund puppy named Crumble into my home. He was a little hellhound with razor-sharp teeth who wouldn’t have been out of place guarding the gates of Hades. During the process of taming ‘The Beast’ (Crumble’s affectionate nickname), I realised how much I enjoyed training with all the fun, creative ways to improve doggy (mis)behaviour and the fascinating science behind it all.

Eager to understand more, I dove into courses with the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) and the University of Edinburgh, learning from some of the best in the field. I’ve also had the privilege of working alongside a respected local dog trainer, gaining hands-on experience and seeing how positive, science-based training can help dogs thrive. My understanding of dog behaviour means that your dog will look forward to learning and enjoying our walks together. I do love a challenge and am excited to help address the key issues that dogs may face.

My Approach

During our walks, I’ll use my scientist knack for observation and problem solving with my behavioural knowledge to develop thoughtful strategies, meeting your dog’s needs and providing tailored support so that you’ll notice real improvements.

I'm committed to making sure every dog feels safe, happy, and engaged. By combining up-to-date training techniques with a genuine love for dogs, I aim to help your companion thrive—both on walks and at home. My goal is to support you and your dog in building a strong, positive relationship, and to make every outing something you both look forward to.

• Positive reinforcement techniques
• Personalized care for every dog
• Focus on safety, fun, and learning
• Fully insured