Finding a trainer is trickier than finding a walker, because what matters is how they train, not just how many stars they have. Figo and I read the websites of five well-reviewed Aberdeenshire trainers. Two describe reward-based training and mention no aversive tools or methods, so those are the two listed here. We haven’t watched either trainer work, and reviews come from the public, so treat this as a shortlist to meet.
Two trainers whose own websites describe reward-based training
Laura Carter Canines
★★★★★ 5.0 · 26 Google reviews
Damside House, Johnshaven, Montrose DD10 0HY. Own website (lauracartercanines.com). The site describes fun, positive, games-based, reward-based training and says the trainer is IMDT-qualified. Services include one-to-one sessions, scentwork workshops, small-group “Snuffle Spot” sessions and an online membership. It covers Aberdeenshire and Angus, so it suits the south of the county best.
View on Google Maps
Barkwrights Dog and Puppy Training
★★★★★ 5.0 · 33 Google reviews
Logie Country Estate, Pitcaple AB51 5EE, near Inverurie. Own website (barkwrights.com). The site describes ethical, reward-based one-to-one training and mentions clicker work, with packages for house training, recall and lead walking, some at your home. It says the trainer is qualified but doesn’t name a body, so ask which. A banner mentions classes, though it gives no details.
View on Google Maps
Who we couldn’t list, and why
The Working Puppy Company (Kintore, 4.7 from 48 reviews) has a website that describes balanced gundog methods and lessons using a slip lead, so we couldn’t confirm a force-free approach. That isn’t a judgement of the trainer, just a different approach from the one we list. K9 Insight (Inverurie, 5.0 from 25) and Active Paws (Laurencekirk, 5.0 from 24) both have excellent Google ratings, but our tools couldn’t read their websites, so we haven’t checked their methods. Both are worth a look yourself. Trainers based in Aberdeen city are on our Aberdeen City dog trainers page.
What to ask before you book
Ask which qualification they hold and with which body, what a first session involves, which equipment they use and whether they ever use a lead or collar to correct a dog. Be wary of anyone who talks about dominance or who suggests pain-based tools. If your dog finds new places a lot, a calming bite is a complementary feed that some owners keep in the kit bag, though for ongoing anxiety or aggression, speak to your vet first. More local ideas are on our Aberdeenshire dog services page.
A private hour is a good place to practise what you learn, so see our Aberdeenshire secure dog fields. If you’d like help day to day, our Aberdeenshire dog walkers are a place to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there reward-based dog trainers in Aberdeenshire?
Yes. Laura Carter Canines near Montrose and Barkwrights near Inverurie both describe reward-based training on their own websites. We haven’t watched either trainer work.
How do I check a dog trainer’s qualifications?
Ask which body they trained with and what equipment they use, then check that body’s own member list. The title dog trainer is not protected in the UK, so anyone can use it.
Written by Georgiana & Figo.
