Clever K9s

I was born in Keighley, and lived there until I joined the Army. As a teenager I walked our family’s pet dogs, two Shih-Tzu, and a Toy Poodle. I walked the Poodle in our local Pennine hills and dales. I fell in love with walking dogs in our fantastic wilder places.

Between 1979 to 1990 I served in the British Army, finishing as a Sergeant in the Intelligence Corps.

Being honoured with the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the New Years Honours was one of the highlights of that part of my life.

On leaving the Army I joined the Ministry of Defence Police and finished my service with them at RAF Menwith Hill in 2007. I served a total of 28 fascinating years in uniform.

Since then I’ve worked locally in Keighley and have been involved in local charities. I began dog walking in 2021 and have trained with the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT) and others.

I’ve loved dogs for as long as I can remember.

I’ve owned many, mainly spaniels, and I can’t imagine life without at least a couple of them following me around. My first Spaniel was a Springer called Sam. Believe it or not, he used to come to work with me in the Army, and he was often AWOL in the office of our Brigade Commander sat under the desk of the Brigadier’s PA!

We currently live with four dogs, three Spaniels and a Bull Lurcher. They have a huge influence over our lives and we love it.

We competed at Flyball with our first Working Cocker Meg. Sadly she’s no longer with us as she passed away at age 5 after a short illness.

I have grown to expect cooperation rather than total obedience from my dogs. Like us they are emotional animals and managing their emotions well gives the best companionship in return. That’s what I strongly believe.

I have a great love for dogs…

…and it’s wonderful to be able to spend my working days in the company of my customers’ amazing dogs.

I usually have 30-40 dogs on my walking schedule.

I hope to give the dogs that come to Clever K9s,

• Walking skills.
• Freedom to be themselves.
• Well matched doggie companions.
• Confidence that they are loved.

Care for dogs in need…

… support for any dogs and all customers when needed.

What next

As I’m getting older I’m hoping to deliver more training services. I believe that the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT) has the best approach to dog training and I intend to learn the best training methods through their courses. Our dogs deserve the good mental health encouraged by modern training methods.

I particularly want to instil good walking skills so that dogs can enjoy off lead exercise with their owners in suitable locations.

I want to help you give your dogs their best possible life.

The Dogs come first! – Not profit!