Dogs With Attitude

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Dogs With Attitude

Leading Melbourne dog behaviour specialist with 250+ Google reviews. Precise guidance, confident handling, and results that actually last. No fluff. No guesswork.
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I’ve always been drawn to the dogs that test you — because they’re the ones who need someone who won’t give up! Hi, I’m Chris — your friendly neighbourhood dog trainer and behaviour wrangler based in Melbourne’s northern suburbs. I’ve spent the last 20+ years helping dogs of all shapes, sizes, and “interesting” personalities learn how to chill out, tune in, and behave like the legends we know they

are (even if they currently act like caffeinated gremlins). This isn’t flashy obedience or trick training. It’s real-life behaviour work — the kind that helps you walk your dog without stress, invite guests over without drama, and enjoy everyday life with your dog. I’m a nationally qualified trainer through the National Dog Trainers Federation (NDTF) — Australia’s leading government-recognised certification for professional dog trainers. That means this isn’t a weekend crash course — it’s proper, science-based training grounded in behavioural theory and real-world results. I’m also a professional member of the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) —a global crew of legit trainers who keep their skills sharp and their standards higher than a Lab’s excitement level at dinner time. I’ve also done extra deep-dives into dog psychology, behaviour, and training — from puppy foundations to those "What the heck is going on here cases". And I keep learning, always. So what does that mean for you? You’re not just getting someone who “loves dogs.” You’re getting someone who knows how to read them, work with them, guide them — and teach you how to do the same. I work with you, in your home and neighbourhood, addressing the challenges where they actually happen. I don’t believe in domination, gimmicks, or overnight fixes. I believe in honest training, clear communication, and helping owners every step of the way. My aim is simple: Calm and happy dogs. Confident owners. Real, lasting change. When I’m Not Training Dogs...

You’ll probably find me sinking balls on the billiards table, playing around on the keyboard (the musical kind, not the IT one), or unwinding by the water with my best friend, Ronny — no commands, no training, just connection. Ready To Get Your Dog On The Right Track? Whether you’ve got a fresh puppy or a full-blown four-legged chaos machine, I’ll help you turn things around — with clear training and honest support. Contact me: https://dogswithattitude.com.au/contact-me/

27/04/2026

Caught up with my longtime friend - Mr. Harry and his awesome owner last week. I’ve known / trained him since he was just a little fluff ball — and credit where it’s due, his owner’s done an incredible job staying consistent with his training through every stage of his life.

Recently, Harry’s been diagnosed with epilepsy. We don’t know exactly how things will unfold, but I really wanted to see him again.

This isn’t a sad post — it’s a reminder.

Don’t take a single moment with your dog for granted. Enjoy the walks, the chaos, the quiet moments… all of it. They don’t get anywhere near as much time as we do, but what they give us in that time is unreal.

Harry’s still the same beautiful boy, and he absolutely smashed everything today!
Really grateful for the catch-up ❤️

24/04/2026

You’re looking at the official definition of ADORABLE… meet Mr. Duke 🐾😍

This handsome Bernese Mountain Dog just started his premium puppy program this week, and no shame admitting it — I spent a solid portion of the session fighting the urge to ditch the lesson plan and just cover him in kisses 🥰

Professionalism won… but it was a close call 😁
He’s an absolute sweetheart with a beautiful temperament, and while we had plenty to get through in session one, he handled it like a champ, then finally collapsed 😁

Even better, he’s backed by a seriously dedicated and enthusiastic team—which means he’s got all the ingredients for something pretty special.
Safe to say, the future is looking very bright for this young man.

Huge appreciation to his owners for trusting me with their beautiful boy. Now the real work (and tons of well-earned cuddles) begins 🤩

21/04/2026

Met Mr. Vader last night… and no, he didn’t try to conquer the galaxy—just my heart 😄

This 6-year-old unit (55kg of pure muscle 💪) has had a pretty sheltered life… think “backyard philosopher with zero social calendar.” No real exposure to the outside world, yet somehow—against the odds—he’s turned out to be an absolute gem. And I don’t use that word lightly.

He’s gentle. He’s composed. He’s got this quiet, thoughtful energy… like he’s constantly processing life at a deeper level than the rest of us. Honestly, you meet dogs like this and just think, “How are you this good?” 🤷🏻‍♂️

Now… small detail—we’ve got a bit of work to do on the walking front. When something exciting pops up, Mr. Vader remembers he’s basically a tank with legs. If he decides to pull, congratulations—you’re now water skiing on land 😁

His new family is incredible. They adore him, they’re committed, and they’re putting in the effort (travelling far just to get him the help he deserves 👏). That’s the kind of team that changes a dog’s life!

So yeah… early days, but I’ve got a very good feeling about this one. Underneath all that strength is a soft, beautiful soul just waiting to shine.

Stay tuned… Darth Vader’s redemption arc is looking very promising ✨

20/04/2026

Mr. Finley has always been the kind of dog who quietly goes about his business, no fuss, no drama. But after being attacked a few times by off leash dogs, the world started to feel a bit different for him… and that’s completely understandable.

Now, we’re working together to rebuild that confidence from the ground up. We’re focusing on how he sees the world, refining handling skills and the dog / owner relationship, strengthening impulse control, and giving him better, safer ways to navigate dog-to-dog interactions.

3 sessions into it and he’s already making some really solid progress.

A huge shoutout to his owners, more so after unsuccessfully working with other trainers before me — their commitment, consistency, and excitement for the process is exactly what makes change happen. It’s the difference between “trying” and actually transforming a dog’s life. Appreciate just as much their travelling to me for the sessions 🙏🏻

As for Mr. Finley… what a beautiful soul ❤️

He’s affectionate, switched on, and genuinely a pleasure to work with. Sessions with him are something I truly look forward to.

Welcome to DWA, my handsome friend 🤗We’ve got a clear path forward, and I’m very confident we’ll turn things around sooner rather than later 🐾💪🏻

17/04/2026

Good morning and happy weekend from Miss Hazel 🐾 (front)

Hazel has officially joined the DWA Premium Puppy Program and is already making fantastic progress. She’s incredibly affectionate—just like her big sister, Toffee—and a real joy to work with 🤗

It’s always great to see such responsible ownership. Giving a puppy the right start makes all the difference, and Hazel is well on her way to becoming a confident, well-rounded dog.

Looking forward to seeing both girls continue to thrive! ❤️🐶

15/04/2026

This gorgeous girl made every session feel less like work and more like hanging out with a very clever, slightly cheeky best mate 🐾

Super switched on, incredibly receptive, and full of affection — she picked things up fast and always kept me on my toes (in the best way possible). Dogs like her make you look forward to every single session 🤩

What makes it even better? She’s backed by a family that truly shows up for her. That’s the secret sauce right there — consistency, love, and commitment. With that combo, she’s only going to keep getting better and better.

I’m genuinely going to miss our sessions together. Absolute joy from start to finish.

Looking forward to your updates, my beautiful friend ❤️🤗

14/04/2026

A well-deserved chill-out and graduation kiss for Mr. Jersey 💛
This big guy has absolutely shone from day one — heart, effort, and personality all rolled into one incredible pup.

Watching his journey has been something special, and I couldn’t be prouder of how far he’s come. I’m definitely going to miss you, buddy… but I’ve got no doubt you’re heading off to become the amazing dog you’re already well on your way to being.

Keep staying your brilliant self, Jersey. The world’s yours 🐾✨

11/04/2026

This legend is usually placed on “lockdown mode” when strangers walk in — we’re talking lunging and a “yeah nah, don’t come closer” kind of attitude.

Fast forward about 2 minutes…
Not 2 sessions. Not 2 weeks.
2 minutes.

Suddenly I’m apparently his long-lost best mate from 2012 🤷🏻‍♂️😜😁

By session two, he’s looking at me like we’ve been through life together — rent, taxes, heartbreak, the whole lot 😂

Underneath all that noise?
Super smart. Switched on. And most importantly — willing.

That’s the magic combo.

Kappa is going to turn this around fast.

Welcome to the family, buddy 🤗
Can’t wait to watch you absolutely shine through the program 💙🐾

07/04/2026

When I first met Roo, I thought I had about a 0% chance of ever being invited back 😅

She looked at me like I was a smoke alarm going off at 3am… and she did NOT appreciate the disturbance.. No reason, no backstory… just straight-up “no thanks, sir.” Fair enough—I respected it, didn’t push her, and left thinking, “Well… that wasn’t expected.”

Fast forward to session two… slight thaw. I wasn’t public enemy #1 anymore. Progress! 😜

By session three? Oh, game over. We were BESTIES. Absolute VIP access. Tail wags, engagement, connection—like we’d known each other for years ❤️

And from that point on… everything just clicked.

Loose leash walking? Nailed it ✅
Over-excitement around other dogs? Handled like a pro ✅
House manners? Cleaner than most humans I know ✅

Every session ended the same way: me standing there like a proud coach trying not to tear up, telling her how ridiculously well she did.

Roo didn’t just improve—she absolutely smashed every single goal we set. Confidence through the roof, connection on point, and a work ethic that puts most gym memberships to shame.

I’m genuinely going to miss this beautiful girl. Watching that transformation from “please don’t come near me” to “where have you been all my life?” is exactly why I love what I do.

Super proud of you, Roo!! You didn’t just pass… you rewrote the standard 💪🏻🤩 🤗

04/04/2026

For those celebrating Easter this week or next, I’d like to wish you and your families a very joyful and peaceful Easter.

Enjoy the break… and maybe a few extra treats (for you and the dogs) 🐣🤗

03/04/2026

Meet Simba… aka my biggest professional challenge right now.

Not because he’s difficult to train — honestly, he’s smashing it. Smart, engaged, eager to learn, and backed by a family who are absolutely nailing their part. This kid is set up for a seriously great life.

The real challenge…

Keeping the session focused on training instead of turning it into 60 minutes of hugs, kisses, and “who’s a beautiful boy” on repeat 🤦🏻‍♂️😍

I mean, look at him. That face should come with a warning label ❤️🥰

Simba brings the perfect mix of brains, enthusiasm, and “please love me immediately” energy. He’s responding beautifully, showing great engagement, and clearly enjoying the work — which makes it even harder not to just melt into a pile of affection every session.

Huge credit to his family for their commitment and consistency. It makes all the difference, and it shows.

But let’s be honest… I’m still fighting for my professional reputation here every time he greets me like that.

10/10 student.
0/10 ability from me to resist cuddles 👀🤗

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https://dogswithattitude.com.au/

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