Hi, my name is Paul Essex and I am a 1:2:1 behavioural dog trainer based in North London with over 20 years’ experience. As well as offering 1-2-1 bespoke training, I provide new puppy home visits and puppy home schooling packages and also volunteer as an instructor at the Dog Training & Education Centre in Finsbury Park – a charitable organisation dedicated to providing training for all dogs, especially rescues from both the UK and overseas. I am an accredited  instructor with the Pet Dog Training Instructors (PDTI – www.PDTI.org) and am a signatory with the Registration Council for Dog Training and Behavioural Practitioners (RCDTBP – www.reg-council-dtbp.uk). I follow ethical, positive reinforcement-based methods that focus on kind, motivational training.

In the world of dog behaviour and training, our understanding of how dogs think, learn, and communicate is constantly evolving, thanks to ongoing scientific research and real-world experience. As someone deeply committed to this field, I make it a priority to stay up to date by attending seminars, workshops and conferences led by leading experts worldwide. Continuous learning means I can provide you with training and behavioural guidance that’s not only effective and ethical, but also grounded in the most current, evidence-based practices available.

Play is a huge part of how I train. It’s not just about having fun! Play is a powerful tool for building a strong bond and engaging with your dog. It helps create a solid foundation for learning, sharpens focus and motivates new behaviours in a way that feels natural and enjoyable for both of you. I’ve seen first-hand how structured play can transform and deepen your relationship and improve your dog’s responsiveness.

My passion for dogs began early – I’ve owned them all my life and have been actively training them for two decades. My journey started with my two boxer dogs, whose communication with each other fascinated me and inspired me to extensively study dog training and behaviour.

Follow my lead embraces my passion for working with dogs and provides an honest, reliable, flexible service to help owners when they need it most. I recognise each dog is special and unique, and my approach reflects that- tailored, thoughtful, and always kind. You can trust that your dog will be treated with the same care and respect I give to my own.