What can we do for you?

Did you know that Mel …

Studied dog behaviour and training through Delta Institute
Attends workshops and seminars regularly to ensure all training methods and techniques are the most up to date and humane ways to train
Is a member of the APDT
Teaches puppy classes at Dr Paws Kotara
Provides private lessons and in home behavioural consults (adolescent and adult dog groups classes are coming soon)
Is extremely passionate about animals and animal welfare
Loves to share her knowledge with owners so they can better understand and communicate with their dogs
Is a bit of nerd when it comes to anything dog related, especially behaviour, enrichment and body language
Lives with Jase (partner), Merve (13 yr old Kelpie x German Shepherd), Grace (8 yr old Whippet x Boxer), Winnie (2yr old Kelpie x Koolie), Phoenix (Lorikeet) and the Girls (6 chooks)
Has a secret addiction to indoor plants

Help you better understand your dog and why they do some of the things they do (jumping, digging, showing signs of fear, ignoring your cues, mouthing, pulling on the leash, not coming back when called etc).
If we understand the motivation behind the behaviour it makes it easier for us humans to understand why dogs are doing the things they do. It also helps us change these ‘undesirable’ behaviours in a kind and gentle way.
Provide you with management options to help while we are teaching new behaviours.
Management is one of the quickest ways to start seeing positive changes in our dogs behaviour. Managing our dogs and their environment is the first step in addressing a lot of unwanted behaviours.

Help you understand your dogs body language and what they are trying to tell you.
This is a responsibility for all dog owners. Our dogs are constantly telling us how they are feeling about things. It’s up to us to learn how to read these signals.
Provide the most up to date information on training techniques, including face to face demonstrations and detailed handouts.
Unfortunately the dog training world is unregulated, meaning anyone can call themselves a trainer or behaviourist. At Balanced Paws we pride ourselves on staying up to date with the most humane and effective ways to train our dogs. We help owners by providing demonstrations in classes or private consults, coach owners so they can continue training when we are no longer there and provide detailed handouts that are easy to follow and understand.
Support you through your training journey or behaviour problems with your dog.
Dealing with a behavioural or training problem can seem overwhelming sometimes. Our aim is to support you through this journey. Whether you take classes or private consults we will be there throughout. We are only ever a phone call or email away and encourage owners to reach out in between classes or consults if they are experiencing problems or have any questions.

Provide long term solutions, not quick fixes.
There are no quick fixes when it comes to training and behaviour. Dogs need time to generalise behaviours while slowly increasing distractions in the environment. We will provide you with the techniques to train you dog or change their behaviour so they have long lasting and positive effects.
Help you set up for you new puppy.
Bringing a new puppy home is exciting and scary all at once. Is your house and yard puppy proof? Do you have everything you need for your pup: Where will your pup sleep? Do you know the best way to settle your pup during the first few nights? How will you go about toilet training your pup? Have you thought about the house rules and how to teach these to your pup in a fun and positive way? We can help you with all of this. Being prepared is the best way to set you, your family and your pup up for success.
Help you to settle in your new rescue dog.
At Balanced Paws, rescue dogs are our favourite breed. Unfortunately some of these dogs have had a pretty rough start to life and need extra care and attention when they find their forever home. We will help you put a plan in place to ensure the smoothest transition possible for your new rescue dog. We can tailor packages to suit your individual needs helping you and your rescue dog in those first few months.