Hi, my name is Leone Ward and I live in a rural property with my partner Jim, our dog Buddy, a bossy but lovable cat Chance. and a number of crazy chickens  At times we have an additional dog that is either being assessed or in training for NZ Epilepsy Assist Dogs.

Experience & Qualifications
I have always loved dogs and my greatest desire is to see them live without anxiety and happily in our family homes.  My goal is to enhance the understanding we have of dogs so that they can have a better life and we can increase the bond we have with our best friend - the dog.

I have trained dogs and handlers for over 20 years in many fields including both Urban and Wilderness Search and Rescue. I was employed at NZFB Guide Dog Services and for the last 6 years have been the Head Trainer for NZ Epilepsy Assist Dogs where I assess, train and oversee other trainers in the organisation.  This is extremely rewarding work and displays the wonderful relationship we can achieve with our dogs.  Both the trainers and the recipients are inspiring people to work alongside and I feel priveledged to have the opportunity to do so.

Alongside my in home behavioural consults for unsociable behaviour issues, I take dog classes for all ages from puppy preschool onward.

I have completed a Certificate in Canine Behaviour at Massey University, various in house course at Guide Dogs, have attended many specialist canine courses and conferences internationally and am a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) USA, APDT Australia and APDT NZ.  I am an avid reader of canine behaviour books and most recently I attended a 5 day conference in USA for Dog Trainers  in 2009 and 3 weekend  canin ebehaviour workshops in NZ.

My methods

I choose to use reward based positive training methods and have a passion to see the dog/human relationship enhanced through greater understanding of dog language and use of good scientific, learning theory based methods. I regularly keep up to date with new training methods overseas and apply the best and most effective of those to my dog training.

I choose not to use fear based methods such as punishment collars, submissive rollovers, or dominance for training our best friend, the dog.

Full member of Association of Pet Dog Trainers USA


           We offer free support for life by phone or email to any dog we visit and free repeat classes.

                     BECAUSE WE WANT YOU TO BE SUCCESSFUL IN TRAINING YOUR DOG