About Me

Clare Lang – owner of The Family Dog

Clare with her dog Drago

Formal Dog Training and Behaviour Qualifications

• Affiliate of the Association of the Centre of Applied Pet Ethology
• Member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (MAPDT 00985)( A.P.D.T)
• Advanced Diploma in Practical Aspects of Companion Animal Behaviour & Training - COAPE ( Centre of Applied Pet Ethology)
• Clicker Trainers' Competency Assessment Program, Levels 1 & 2 (Distinction)
• Certificate in Basic Instructional Techniques 2nd Grade, BIPDT Instructors course
• Think Dog! Intermediate Award in Canine Behaviour & Training
• Think Dog! Practical course

Background

I grew up surrounded by animals including dogs, horses, rabbits, guinea-pigs and even a parrot! Over the years I have owned a variety of dogs, some from puppy-hood, others rescue dogs. The current dog in my life is a four year old Spaniel-cross rescue dog, Drago. Drago came from a shelter in Geneva, Switzerland where I lived for three years.

Professionally, after graduating from Cambridge University I started work with a major pet food manufacturer where I stayed for the next seven years. This experience means that I have good knowledge of the nutritional needs of dogs and also of the effects of diet on behaviour. Whilst working in the pet food industry, I helped out at the local dog training club in my spare time. I started off assisting with classes and then moved on to teaching classes myself. This enabled me to gain experience of both a wide range of dogs and a multitude of different training issues.

After seven years in the corporate world it was time to make a change and to progress with dog training on a professional basis. I now work full time in the area of dog behaviour and training, helping owners to improve their dog’s behaviour and therefore to become even better family pets. I also spend a few hours each week at the Blue Cross Adoption Centre in Kimpton, walking and socialising the dogs there.