Real Life. Real Dogs. Really Me.
Meet Lyndsey – Founder of The Clever Canine Ayrshire
I'm Lyndsey, the trainer (and tea-fuelled human) behind The Clever Canine Ayrshire. My journey into dog training began with my first dog, Lucy – a spirited little Chihuahua cross who taught me more than any textbook ever could. Like many new puppy owners, I made mistakes early on. Those challenges sparked a lifelong mission to understand canine behaviour-especially anxiety-and how best to support dogs through it.
I began my professional career at the largest dog daycare in Europe, where I worked hands-on with over 200 dogs a day. Rising to a senior team member, I gained invaluable experience with a wide range of breeds, observing their body language, quirks, and social dynamics. This experience laid the foundation for my approach today: real dogs, real life, really kind training.
Over the past 8 years, I’ve studied dog behaviour extensively, particularly how fear, stress, and environment affect our canine companions. Thanks to this learning-and a lot of patience-Lucy is now a far more relaxed and confident dog. That transformation inspired me to help others avoid the pitfalls I once faced.
After relocating to Scotland, I briefly worked as a professional dog groomer. But I quickly realised my true calling was in behaviour and training, empowering dogs to feel comfortable, not just look good. I transitioned full-time into dog training and haven’t looked back.
I’m qualified to Level 4 in Canine Training and Behaviour Consultations through the IMDT (Institute of Modern Dog Trainers), and I continue my education through ongoing courses, webinars, and workshops with providers including Canine Principles and The Dog Training College. I’m also a certified Puppy Training Specialist and a proud member of ICAN (International Companion Animal Network).
At home, I now share life with Mango the Whippet-my laidback, zoomie-loving sighthound who’s taught me plenty about instinctive behaviour and breed-specific quirks. Most recently, I welcomed my two human children, Millie and Koa. Navigating the world of parenthood has added a whole new layer of insight into the real-life challenges of raising dogs alongside little ones. I’m always eager to share what I’ve learned with families trying to juggle both.
At The Clever Canine Ayrshire, my mission is simple: to give dogs a voice and support owners with kind, science-based, effective training that works in the real world.