Hello, I'm Tracey -
founder of
Doggie Dawdles

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

Proud dog mum to Wilson (11 yr old Hungarian Vizsla) and Molly (7 yr old Labrador) - and formerly to Jess & Yorkie, the founding dogs of Doggie Dawdles.

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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 sits attentively on a dirt path in a sunlit forest, wearing a collar with tags. Purple wildflowers and greenery fill the background.
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.

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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.

Full qualifications & 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.

  • - Liz Mary -

    Tracey is always so helpful and brilliant with our dogs. She is really lovely and has the dogs best interests at heart at all times. We couldn't recommend her more highly.

  • - 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.

  • - Amanda Bevis -

    I can't recommend Tracey highly enough. Her care, patience and compassion to the dogs is first class.

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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