We’ve only found one Newport-covering trainer whose reward-based approach we can verify clearly, both from his own website and from independent professional registers, so we’re listing him here, plus where to look for more.

Gary Mathlin – Gwent Dog Training

Area: Newport, Cardiff, Gwent and Monmouthshire (based in Torfaen, no public street address)
Phone: 0795 141 1669
Website: gwentdogtraining.com

Gary’s own site describes a “positive reward” based system, built on dog and owner first understanding each other’s signals and cues. He’s explicit about what he avoids too: he describes TV-style training as “all about choke-chains, kneeing dogs in the chest and generally bossing dogs about” and says he didn’t want to put his own dog through that. He’s also listed on the ABTC’s practitioner register as covering Newport, with membership of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) shown there too — APDT members must follow a Code of Practice which states plainly that “members must not use, recommend, advertise or sell coercive or punitive training methods or equipment,” so it’s a condition of membership rather than just a claim on a website.

Finding more in and around Newport

• Our Torfaen trainers page covers the neighbouring area and includes a couple of businesses based in Newport itself, under the Torfaen listing.
• The ABTC keeps a Wales register of accredited practitioners, several of whom cover Newport.
• The UK-wide dog trainer directory.

Before you book anyone

• Ask what happens when your dog gets something wrong.
• Check which tools they use. Shock, spray and prong collars are a no from us.
• Ask whether they are registered with the ABTC or APDT, and check the register yourself rather than just taking their word for it.

Tredegar House’s parkland is a popular spot for training walks once recall is solid. If you are looking at everyday support for your dog, the dog supplements and vitamins at Calmshops are worth a look, after speaking to your vet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is only one trainer listed for Newport?

We only list trainers we can verify use reward-based methods. Gary Mathlin is the one we could confirm this way, through his own website’s description of his approach and his listing on the ABTC and APDT registers.

What does APDT membership actually guarantee?

APDT’s Code of Practice bans coercive or punitive methods and equipment for all members, so it’s a condition of membership rather than a marketing claim. It isn’t a guarantee of results, but it is a real standard the trainer has agreed to.

Are there other trainers who cover Newport?

Our Torfaen trainers page lists a couple of businesses based in Newport itself. We haven’t independently re-checked their training methods against the same bar used here, so read their listing and ask directly before booking.

Written by Georgiana & Figo.