Hello, I'm Tracey,
founder of
Doggie Dawdles

Social worker turned Dog Trainer. 12 years in, still learning and still loving it. Guided always by kindness, authenticity, and integrity.

Proud dog mum to Wilson, an 11 year old Hungarian Vizsla, and Molly, a 7 year old Labrador - and formerly to Jess & Yorkie, the founding dogs behind Doggie Dawdles.

Let's chat
A woman in a bright pink sweater smiles while hugging a white dog in a lush forest. They're surrounded by vibrant purple flowers, conveying joy and serenity.
A brown dog joyfully splashes through a shallow river, creating water droplets in mid-air. A green, blurred natural background enhances the lively scene.
Dog and puppy certified trainer graphic

IMDT Qualified

Institute of Modern Dog Trainers

UK Charter Member

Dog Behaviour & Training Charter

OCN London Level III

Principles of Dog Training & Behaviour

Level 4 Diploma

Advanced Canine Behaviour

From Children's Social Worker to Dog Trainer - and Why It Matters

Doggie Dawdles was established over 12 years ago when I was searching for a more meaningful and balanced life. Before this I spent 15 years as a Children's Social Worker - rewarding work, but relentless. The ever-increasing demands left little room for the things that brought me most joy.

Jess was a beautiful yellow Labrador - perfect from the start, loyal through everything. Yorkie was a huge, handsome chocolate Labrador with neurological issues and sensitivities to almost everything. He taught me that training needs to be unconventional sometimes, that one size truly does not fit all, and that the label doesn't always tell the whole story.

Both shaped me into the Dog Trainer and dog mum I am today. The love I hold for them still fires up my passion to provide the best walks, the kindest training, and the best possible support to every dog that comes into my life.

My guiding principles are:

"

"My inspiration came from my absolute adoration for Jess and Yorkie - my very first dogs as an adult, and the founding dogs of Doggie Dawdles."

Kindness · Authenticity · Integrity

Why accreditation matters to me

The dog training industry is unregulated - and that's exactly why I chose to be accredited.

When I moved from Social Work into Dog Training, I was shocked to discover the industry is entirely unregulated. Anyone can call themselves a Dog Trainer - no assessment, no standards, no accountability.

"

"As the years went by as a Dog Walker, I observed the vast number of people using out of date and aversive methods - potentially causing dogs more harm than good. There was a need for self-regulation, and it became a personal mission to do my part."

This is when I discovered IMDT and the UK Dog Behaviour & Training Charter, and put myself through the rigorous courses and assessment process to demonstrate, wholeheartedly, that I take this work seriously.

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IMDT - Institute of Modern Dog Trainers

External assessment and accreditation to the highest professional standard. Force free, science-led methods only.

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OCN London Level III + Level 4 Diploma

Formally qualified in Principles of Dog Training and Behaviour, and Advanced Canine Behaviour - continuously building on this foundation.

🛡️

UK Dog Behaviour & Training Charter

Charter membership provides public assurance that I have been checked, supported, and monitored by a reputable accrediting body.

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2026 Best Dog Trainers Award · Basingstoke

Recognised by the local community for excellence in dog training and client care.

Qualifications, Accreditations & Courses
Always learning, because dogs deserve the best

COURSES COMPLETED

  • Open College Network Level III ‘Principles of Dog Training and Behaviour’

  • Level 4 Advanced Canine Behaviour Diploma

  • 2 Day Career as a Dog Trainer

  • 4 Day Practical Instructor Course

  • Perfect Puppy

  • The Consultation and Follow Up Report

  • Canine Body Language

  • Learning Theory Explained

SPECIALIST COURSES

  • Red Flag Behaviours:  Canine Emotional Health

  • Pain and Behaviour

  • Canine Aggression and Rehabilitation

  • Breed and Predatory Motor Patterns

  • Loose Leaders

  • Happy Recallers

  • Canine Adolescence

  • ‘Scentsationalise’ Your Services

  • Separation Anxiety and Related Disorders

Ready to get started?

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The Training Pathway

Structured group walks - from puppy foundations to calm, confident adulthood.

Explore the Pathway →

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Training Classes

Group classes and private sessions at Viables Community Centre, Basingstoke.

View classes →

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Dog Walking

Solo walks, group walks, training walks and home visits for busy owners.

View walking →

What dog owners say about Doggie Dawdles

  • - Debbie Spooner-Chapman -

    I would highly recommend Tracy. My dog was very timid and Tracy made us feel safe on our first day of training. We had 7 training sessions and enjoyed ever single one. My dog learnt a lot over the 7 weeks. We found tracy a very patient person very kind and a very good trainer. I would definitely go back to her if I ever needed to.

  • - Alaina Matthews -

    Tracey helped us address our Springer's aggression and guarding behavior when he was on strict crate rest due to a leg injury. Her guidance not only improved our pup's relationship with our cats but also addressed the issue of him pulling on the lead. Thanks to Tracey's expertise, we have seen significant progress in our dog's behavior. We are grateful to have her as our trainer.

  • - Nina Hutchins -

    Tracey is a true professional and all round lovely human being!
    Sometimes you need a dog trainer because you’ve been in some stressful situations and are feeling a little defeated. Tracey makes you feel so supported and there is zero judgement, just great advice and tips.
    I would never hesitate to recommend Tracey and her wealth of support and services!

  • - Gemma Vaughn -

    Our boy loves his home visits from Tracey. She plays enrichment games with him as well as giving cuddles and attention. Tracey’s communication is on point! Would 100% recommend her.

  • - Kerry Mitchell -

    Tracey has been an amazing help with Emmy since we first attended her puppy classes. She’s always so patient and happy to answer the endless questions we always have! As an added bonus Emmy absolutely loves Tracey too 🥰 Would 100% recommend her for any help you need with training your pup!

Partner Spotlight

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Butternut Box Ambassador - as a Doggie Dawdles client, enjoy 75% off your first box of freshly prepared, human-grade dog food.

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