Enjoy your social life again
Happy About Humans: Coaching for Stress-free Socialising
One to one coaching with industry leading support to help you and your dog feel safer, calmer, and more confident around people.
Understanding the Struggle
Living with a dog who struggles around people can feel isolating
You love your dog, but their reactions to people—barking, growling, hiding, lunging, or even snapping—are making everyday life stressful. Maybe you’ve stopped inviting people over because it’s just too difficult. Perhaps you avoid stopping to chat with other dog walkers, dreading how your dog might react. You might even find yourself structuring your entire day around avoiding people, feeling more and more cut off from the social experiences you used to enjoy.
You’ve probably tried some of the usual advice:
- Keeping your dog on lead or at a distance from people.
- Asking guests to ignore your dog or give them treats.
- Using ‘watch me’ exercises or distraction techniques.
- Following advice from book, online videos, or well-meaning friends.
- Attending group training classes (only to find they were too overwhelming).
Despite your best efforts, you’re still stuck. Avoiding people forever isn’t realistic, and surface-level training exercises aren’t solving the real issue. You know your dog’s behaviour is driven by how they feel, and you want an approach that helps them feel genuinely safer—not just one that manages their reactions in the moment.
You just want to enjoy life with your dog again:
- To welcome visitors without stress or worry.
- To chat with neighbours or other dog walkers without having to keep your distance.
- To trust that you and your dog can handle everyday situations—without stress, fear, or frustration.
A Path to Peace
A structured plan, expert guidance, and support every step of the way
With expert guidance, you’ll:
- Understand what’s driving your dog’s behaviour – so you can respond in a way that truly helps them feel safer, rather than just suppressing their reactions.
- Follow a personalised, structured plan that adapts as you go – no rigid, one-size-fits-all methods. We’ll focus on what matters most for your dog and adjust as they progress.
- Track your progress from day one – with clear steps and milestones, so you can see what’s working, celebrate wins (big and small!), and stay motivated.
- Know exactly what to do in real-life situations – whether it’s handling visitors, passing strangers on walks, or preparing for the vet, you’ll feel confident in what to do next.
- Get support when you need it – with regular check-ins and ongoing guidance, so you’re never left wondering what to do next.
This isn’t just a training plan—it’s a fully supported coaching programme designed to help both you and your dog feel calmer, more in control, and able to navigate life with less stress and more confidence
Hi, I'm Kelly
I’m a Clinical Animal Behaviourist and the founder of Tails We Win, with over 14 years of experience helping reactive, anxious, and aggressive dogs feel safer and more secure in the world. My approach is rooted in the latest behavioural science, ethical training methods, and a deep understanding of how emotions affect behaviour.
But my expertise doesn’t just come from the world of dog behaviour—I also have a background in engineering and software development, applying agile frameworks to complex projects. What does that have to do with dog training? A lot, actually.
Working with a fearful or reactive dog isn’t about following a rigid step-by-step plan—it’s about adapting to progress, prioritising what matters most, and tracking success in a way that keeps you moving forward without feeling overwhelmed. That’s exactly how I structure my coaching.
I created Happy About Humans because I know how isolating and exhausting it can be to live with a dog who struggles around people. You don’t need more conflicting advice or quick-fix solutions—you need expert support, a clear plan, and the confidence to help your dog feel truly safe. That’s exactly what we’ll build together.
“You set Diva and I on the right track.
I can confidently say that she is a changed dog, and we are a team. We now trust each other.
I have a dog that when we are out, people stop and comment on how lovely she is.”
Sue (with Diva)
How it works
You’re ready to get started—so what happens next? Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Book your package
- Click the button below to choose your coaching package and complete your booking.
- If you’re unsure which option is right for you, get in touch to clarify the best fit.
Step 2: Getting set up
- Once booked, you’ll receive a welcome email with booking link to schedule your intial consult.
- Once you’re scheduled I’ll ask you to fill in a questionnaire about your dog, your challenges, and your goals. This helps us hit the ground running at the first session.
Step 3: Your personalised coaching plan
- In our first session, we’ll go deep into your dog’s behaviour, your priorities, and what success looks like for you.
- You’ll get a structured but flexible plan tailored to your dog, with clear next steps that evolve as progress unfolds.
- You’ll track your progress from day one, so you always know where you are and what’s coming next.
Step 4: Ongoing support & adjustments
- We’ll check in regularly to review progress, troubleshoot challenges, and adjust the plan as needed.
- You’ll have opportunities to give feedback, ask questions, and steer the direction of our work together based on what’s working for you and your dog.
Step 5: Wrapping up & moving forward
- You’ll know we’re nearing the end of our work together when you and your dog are handling situations with more confidence and less stress.
- We’ll review your progress, discuss next steps, and ensure you have everything you need to keep moving forward.
- If you’d like continued support, there are options to extend coaching or check in as needed
Throughout the process, you’re never left guessing—I’ll be there to guide you every step of the way.
Choose the level of support that's right for you
Every dog is different, and so is every owner’s journey. That’s why Happy About Humans offers three levels of support—so you can get the help you need in a way that works for you.
Lite Package
Initial Consult Only- Best for: Dipping your toe in, or owners who prefer to work independently but want expert guidance to get started.
- Includes: Initial 90-minute consultation, personalised plan, support for 2 weeks after session.
- Duration: 2 weeks
- Support: Email & messaging support
- Continue with monthly support options or book further sessions as you need them.
Standard Package
Comprehensive Support- Best for: Owners who want regular check-ins and ongoing help adjusting their plan.
- Includes: Initial consultation, personalised plan, 3 further coaching sessions, full support throughout package.
- Duration: 12 Weeks
- Support: Email & messaging support. Video review.
- Further support options available.
Intensive Package
Ultimate Transformation- Best for: Owners who want more regular coaching sessions along with check-ins and ongoing help.
- Includes: Initial consultation, personalised plan, 7 further coaching sessions, full support throughout package.
- Duration: 16 Weeks
- Support: Email & messaging support. Video review.
- Further support options available.
You don't have to figure this out alone.
You’re here because you’re ready for change. You want to stop second-guessing yourself and start feeling confident in how you handle life with your dog. With expert guidance, a structured plan, and ongoing support, that’s exactly what we’ll build together.
Let's get started!
Choose the option that fits you best:
Already know what you need? Select your package and book now. Your first step toward a calmer, more confident future starts today.
Not sure which package is right for you? Get in touch. Fill in a few details and I’ll help you figure out the best fit for your situation.
“The video feedback was so valuable.
Your positivity and enthusiasm boosted my confidence even when I felt it was all going to pot. Your belief in us helped me to connect all the different bits of training together.
You have great advice, from adjusting training to suit us, to helping with to get a new harness and lead. Showing us where Bryher was happy but also where we had reached her limit in feeling comfortable.
Thank you doesn’t actually feel enough!”
Sarah (with Bryher)
Find the perfect fit
Is this service right for you?
Choosing the right coaching package is crucial for addressing your dog’s unique behaviour challenges. My Happy About Humans program is tailored for dog owners dealing with reactive or aggressive behaviours towards other people.
If you’re seeking a comprehensive approach to transform your dog’s behaviour and enhance your bond, this service is designed for you. My methods are rooted in understanding and patience, ensuring a positive experience for both you and your dog.
This IS for you if:
- Your dog overreacts to other people—barking, lunging, growling, or shutting down.
- You want to understand the emotions behind your dog’s behaviour, not just suppress their reactions.
- You’re committed to kind, ethical, science-based training that helps your dog feel safe.
- You’re ready to work in small, manageable steps to build real, lasting change.
- You want a structured but flexible plan that adapts to your dog’s progress.
- You value expert guidance and ongoing support, rather than trying to piece things together on your own.
This IS NOT for you if:
- You’re looking for a quick fix or expecting instant results.
- You’re hoping to use corrections, aversive tools (e.g., prong collars, e-collars), or punishment-based methods to stop the behaviour. My approach focuses on changing how your dog feels, not just what they do.
- You want your dog to “just stop” reacting, rather than addressing the root cause.
- You’re not willing to or cannot commit time and effort to help your dog feel safer.
- You need in-person training at your home—this is an online or hybrid coaching service with any in-person coaching held at a safe outdoor venue.
Common Questions
I understand you may have questions about my Happy About Humans coaching package. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.
Will positive reinforcement really work for my reactive dog?
Yes! Positive reinforcement is an effective method for addressing reactivity in dogs. More importantly, it is an ethical and humane way of working with reactivity. With consistency, you will build a positive association for your dog in situations they used to find stressful and overwhelming. And using positive reinforcement will strengthen the bond between you and your dog, forging a reciprocal relationship that improves well-being for you both.
What if my dog doesn’t take treats when they’re reactive?
That’s completely normal. If your dog is too stressed to take treats, we’ll adjust training to work at a distance where they feel safe and we will explore other reinforcers like toys, praise, or space.
My dog has been reactive for years—can they still improve?
Absolutely! Dogs of any age can learn new behaviours with the right approach. The key is working at their pace and focusing on changing how they feel, not just what they do.
How long will it take to see results?
Every dog is different, but many clients notice small improvements within a few weeks. Long-term behaviour change takes time, and our structured approach ensures progress at a pace your dog is comfortable with.
Will I need to avoid other people forever?
No! The goal is to help your dog feel more comfortable around other people. At first, we’ll manage situations carefully, but over time, you’ll be able to enjoy daily life with more confidence.
What if my dog doesn’t improve?
While results vary, we tailor the plan to your dog’s needs and adjust as we go. If something isn’t working, we’ll pivot and find what does—you’re never left stuck.
What happens after I book?
Once you book your package, you’ll receive a welcome email with to schedule your first session and I’ll ask you to complete a questionnaire to help me understand your dog so we are ready to hit the ground running right away.
What if I need to reschedule a session?
I discourage clients from rescheduling if at all possible as for best results it is important to not leave too much time between sessions. I design the programmes for maximum success with the recommended time between sessions of 2 weeks. All sessions must be taken within the programme duration as stated in the coaching agreement.
But I also realise life happens and where possible I will offer flexibility.
How will I know we’re making progress?
You’ll have a clear plan with milestones from day one. Regular check-ins ensure we’re moving forward, and we’ll adjust as needed based on your dog’s progress.
I’ve only ever worked with trainers in person—will online coaching really work?
Absolutely! Online coaching allows for more tailored support, real-time feedback, and a flexible approach without the stress of in-person sessions for your dog. Many clients find it more effective because they can train in familiar environments.
That being said, it is possible to have some in-personal sessions if you are local. These are held in a secure field in Fernhurst, West Sussex.
Do I need to be tech-savvy to do online coaching?
Not at all! If you can join a video call, record a video on your phone and send a message, you’re all set. I’ll guide you through anything you need to access.
What equipment will I need for training?
Nothing fancy—just your usual walking gear, some treats, and a way to record short videos (your phone is perfect). If specific tools would be helpful, I’ll recommend them based on your dog’s needs.
What if I don’t feel confident training my dog?
That’s exactly why I’m here! You don’t need to be an expert—I’ll coach you step by step so you always know what to do next.
What if life gets in the way and I can’t train as much as I planned?
That’s completely normal. The plan is designed to be flexible—we’ll prioritise what fits your lifestyle so you don’t feel overwhelmed.
What if I pick the wrong package?
If you’re unsure which level of support you need, I recommend you get in touch, and I’ll help you choose the best fit. You can always start with the Lite package and move on to a larger package or monthly options.
Can I extend my support if I feel I need more help?
Yes! If you complete your package and want ongoing guidance, I offer options for follow-up support.
Can I claim this service on my pet insurance?
Many insurance providers cover behaviour consultations from qualified professionals. Check with your provider to see if you’re eligible.
I’m worried about the cost—what if it’s not worth the investment?
This is an investment in your dog’s long-term wellbeing and your peace of mind. Many clients find they save money in the long run by addressing the root cause rather than trying short-term fixes.
Can you guarantee results?
No ethical trainer or behaviourist can guarantee specific results, but I can guarantee a compassionate, science-based approach and ongoing support to help you and your dog succeed.
Why do I need a veterinary referral before starting?
Medical issues can contribute to behaviour problems. A vet referral helps rule out pain or illness, ensuring we address the root cause of your dog’s reactivity.
Why should I work with a Clinical Animal Behaviourist?
As a qualified Clinical Animal Behaviourist, I use science-backed, ethical training methods designed to improve your dog’s emotional well-being—not just their behaviour.
Want to know more?
If you have a question that’s not listed here, feel free to get in touch to see if this service is right for you.
Ready to finally feel confident handling your dog's reactivity?
You don’t have to keep evading other dog walkers, finding excuses to avoid inviting people over, or feeling increasingly isolated from your social circle. With expert guidance, a structured but flexible plan, and ongoing support, you can help your dog feel calmer and more in control—so life together feels easier and less stressful.
Already know which package is right for you? Book your spot now and take the first step toward lasting change.
Not sure yet? No problem—get in touch, give me a few details, and we’ll figure it out together.
You’re not alone in this—let’s get started together.