Dog trainer & behaviourist · Isle of Man

Making every daya good dog day.

Force-free, science-based training and behaviour help for dogs and the people who love them. No fear, no dominance, no intimidation.

  • Elite Fear Free Certified
  • Qualified Veterinary Nurse
  • Helping island dogs since 2020
Three happy dogs in harnesses sitting in the boot of a car

All about us

Real solutions for real dogs

Whether it’s complex behaviour or basic manners and recall, Ruff Mutts doesn’t just train your dog. You learn how to communicate with them, without fear, submission or intimidation.

Founded in 2020, Ruff Mutts offers 1-2-1 and class-based services built on a solid foundation of science-based knowledge and experience. The aim is simple: take away the owner stress so you can actually start to enjoy your dog.

Years in the veterinary industry
9
Qualified Veterinary Nurse
2017
Aversive tools used
0
Meet Kate

Services

Help that fits your dog

Honest, upfront prices. If you’re not sure what suits your dog (and you), give Kate a shout.

The Training Experts

Private Behavioural Assessments

An in-home assessment to go through your dog’s history and issues while reading their body language and communication.

from £100

Find out more

Ready. Set. Train.

Group Training

Group options built around what you and your dog need.

from £50

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Training with Care

Assistance Dog Training

An initial assessment of your dog’s suitability and planning of tasks for your specific disability, in line with all current legislation.

from £200

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Try it yourself

Practise a perfect recall

Tap the field to throw the ball. When your pup brings it back, reward them. Good recalls are built on things dogs love, not on fear.

Real recall classes: 2 sessions, £50

Recalls: 0Tap the grass to throw

How it works

From first chat to calmer days

  1. 1

    Have a chat

    Call, text or send a message. Kate helps you decide whether a class or a 1-2-1 visit is the right start.

  2. 2

    Assessment at home

    Kate goes through your dog’s history, watches their body language and works out the causes and triggers.

  3. 3

    Your bespoke plan

    A full written plan, referrals where needed and unlimited email support between sessions.

  4. 4

    Progress visit

    Usually three weeks later, once changes have had a chance to settle in.

Elite Fear Free Certified Professional badgeAggression in Dogs Master Course certificate of completionCovered by Pet Business Insurance

Happy clients

What owners say

Kate is just amazing, we did the 1st recall class yesterday evening... great advice and knowledge that makes perfect sense in the real world and not a training setting. We all laughed and encouraged each other. We have practiced today and I awarded us all a gold star. Highly recommend Kate now can’t wait for next class.

Penny Collier · Recall class

Read reviews & leave your own

FAQ

Questions owners ask

What is your approach to pet training?

My approach to training is holistic. I consider all aspects of your pet’s wellbeing, including health, diet, situation and background. As an Elite Fear Free Certified Professional, my approach completely excludes any aversive or dominance-based techniques, and I aim to build your dog’s confidence and self-esteem.

Which of your services is right for me?

If you are unsure whether your dog is best suited to a class or a 1-2-1 setting, just get in touch. I don’t bite (promise) and I’m happy to talk through your dog’s individual needs.

Is my pet too old to be trained?

No pet is ever too old to learn something new, though it depends on the outcome you want. Teaching your 13-year-old dog to be an agility champion is probably off the cards. Making your older dog as comfortable and stress-free as possible to improve their later years is absolutely achievable.

How much does a dog behaviourist cost on the Isle of Man?

A private behavioural assessment at Ruff Mutts is £100, with follow-up visits at £75. That includes a bespoke treatment plan, referrals where needed and unlimited email support between sessions. Every price is listed on the Services & Fees page.

All questions

Get in touch

Let’s make every day a good dog day

Not sure what your dog needs? Tell Kate a little about them and she’ll point you to the right option. No pressure, no judgement.

What’s happening, when it started, and what you’d love to change.

Kate replies personally, usually within a day or two.

Call Kate