London’s Puppy Training Specialists

Rachael

As the founder of Baywood, I am someone who has always been deeply moved by the bond between dogs and the people who love them. I started working as a dog trainer in 2012 while living in Sheffield and spent a lot of my free time volunteering with the dogs at the RSPCA Animal Shelter. This gave me the chance to work with a wide variety of dogs — all sizes, breeds, and each carrying their own story. It was an experience that opened my eyes to just how much individuality exists in every dog. I came to understand how important it is to communicate with and train in a way that’s right for that dog — not the last one, or the next. Just like people, dogs need to be seen, heard, and understood for who they are. That experience deeply shaped the way I work today: with patience, curiosity, and a genuine respect for every dog’s unique personality and history.

My love for training began with my own dog, Boswell. I wanted to give him the most enriching, joyful life possible — and I knew that meant helping him become confident, well-mannered, and adaptable. Through positive training, Boswell became my trusted companion in every part of life. Living in the city centre, he confidently navigated busy weddings, bustling pub trips, and everyday urban life. But he was just as at ease on peaceful countryside holidays and mountain-top adventures. His days were full of pleasure and discovery, and he approached every experience with calm confidence and happiness. His days were full of pleasure and discovery, and he approached every experience with calm confidence and happiness. Thanks to his training, he was well-behaved and welcomed wherever we went. We shared years of everyday adventures side by side — and it’s that same freedom and joy I aim to bring to every dog I work with. The bond we built, grounded in trust, communication, and mutual respect, is the reason I do what I do today.

After Boswell passed away, I expanded Baywood’s services to include in-home care and training — bringing the love, dedication and attentiveness I had for him into the homes of other dogs and families. Whether I’m offering training support or overnight care, I treat every dog like my own, making sure they feel safe, understood and genuinely loved.

I’ve experienced first-hand how powerful life with a well-trained dog can be, and it’s my mission to bring that magic into the lives of others. Helping people and their dogs connect more deeply, feel more confident together, and enjoy the everyday moments is what drives me — and I feel so lucky to call it my job.

Outside of my work, I love surfing and exploring the outdoors — and I bring that same calm, present energy to every dog I work with.

• Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Applied Canine Behaviour

• Approved Canine Nutrition & Wellness Expert

• Approved Canine Reactivity Expert

• Assessing and Managing Risk in Cases of Human-Directed Aggression

• Behaviour Modification for the Real World

• Certificate in Canine Enrichment

• Canine Proprioception

• Certificate in Canine Pain

• Certificate in Counselling Families (Pet Bereavement)

• Certificate in Desensitisation and Counterconditioning

• Certificate: Walking with Reactive Dogs

• Certificate: Emotional Intelligence and Mindfulness for Dog Professionals

• Certificate: Paws and Connect – Mindset for Dog Professionals

• Certificate: Scentwork for Fun

• Certificate: Tellington TTouch for Calming

• Certificate: Trust After Trauma

• Certificate: Understanding Extinction