Meet Amy — Founder of Crafty K9
The trainer
behind the lead.
Dog Trainer, Equipment maker, German Shepherd owner — based in the West Midlands & Warwickshire.
How we got here
Where it all began
My journey into dog training started when I began working with my family dog — a Collie x Spaniel who became reactive to other dogs in his older years. I was determined to help change how he felt, and quickly found myself obsessed with learning and training every single day. Around the same time, I began volunteering weekly at the RSPCA, getting hands-on experience with as many dogs as possible and soaking up everything I could learn.
Finding my direction
I took my first job working in a kennels and daycare environment. While I loved being around the dogs, the lack of structure and the busy, chaotic atmosphere showed me something important — my passion wasn't just caring for dogs, it was helping them thrive. I knew I wanted to focus on training: creating structure, clarity, and genuine freedom for both dogs and their owners.
First steps into professional training
I secured my first dog training role, working with short board and train programmes. This gave me valuable hands-on experience with a wide range of breeds, temperaments, and behavioural challenges. Wanting to deepen my knowledge even further, I began studying for my Level 4 in Canine Behaviour, Training & Nutrition.
Growing experience and confidence
I continued working within the company to gain as much experience as possible, while also starting to take on my own private clients. During this time, I began a mentorship with Raven K9 Dog Training — allowing me to further develop my practical skills, knowledge, and training approach.
Crafty K9 is born
I took the leap into self-employment and officially launched Crafty K9 Dog Training. What started as a passion had grown into a business dedicated to helping dogs and their owners build stronger relationships through clear communication, structure, and fun, functional training.
Always learning
Training never stands still, and neither do I. I continue to expand my knowledge, improve my handling skills, and invest in my education — so I can give my clients and their dogs the very best support, and the happy, balanced lives they deserve.
The principles behind the practice
Empathy first
Every dog is communicating something. My job is to listen before I teach. Understanding why a behaviour exists is always the first step to changing it gently and lastingly.
Science-backed, not trend-chasing
The training I use is grounded in behaviour science — marker training, positive reinforcement, and structured progression. Not because it's fashionable, but because it works and keeps dogs happy.
Real life, not just the garden
A dog who behaves perfectly in your kitchen but falls apart on a busy street hasn't really learned yet. Everything I teach is built to hold up where it matters — out in the world.
Hi, I'm Amy
Hi! I'm Amy — Founder of Crafty K9 Dog Training. Dog Trainer, Equipment maker, German Shepherd owner, and a big believer that great training starts with a strong relationship.
Using a balanced training system, I help owners build motivated, calm, and reliable dogs for real life — from loose lead walking and recall, to confidence, focus, and everyday manners.
Because training shouldn't just work in a session, your house, or a community hall — it should work in the real world.
My journey into dog training started with my own family dog, a Collie x Spaniel who became reactive to other dogs as he got older. That experience lit a fire in me. I started volunteering at the RSPCA, went on to work in kennels, completed board and train programmes, studied for my Level 4 in Canine Behaviour, Training & Nutrition, and mentored under Raven K9 Dog Training.
Everything I've learned has been driven by one goal: to help dogs and their owners actually enjoy life together. If you're willing to put the work in, I'll give you the guidance, structure, and support you need to succeed.