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Newcastle & Lake Macquarie · Method-led training
Calm dogs. Calm handlers. Real life results.
Private, in-home and residential training for dogs that pull, react, ignore, or just need better foundations — taught by Nathan, a NePoPo-certified, science-informed trainer.
400+Local dogs trained
across NSW Hunter
across NSW Hunter
5★Average client
rating
rating
1-on-1No group classes,
no shortcuts
no shortcuts
Now booking — limited weekly slots
Not sure where to start? Tell us about your dog — we'll point you the right way. No pressure, no sales pitch.
Fast path
What's going on with your dog?
Pick what you're dealing with and I'll point you to the right first step. Where two programmes both fit, you'll see both.
Not sure where to start?
Tell me what's going on. I'll point you the right way.
Send a quick message about your dog and I'll get back to you personally, usually within one business day. No call centre, no sales script — just honest advice.
Prefer to talk now? Call 0405 214 219 or see all the ways to reach me →
The three programmes
Programmes built for the way you actually live.
No drop-off-and-forget. No quick fixes. Every programme finishes with a full handover so the results stay long after our last session.
One-on-one sessions, at your home.
Single, 3, 5, or 8-session packages — save up to $300.
- 60-minute focused session in your environment
- Tailored plan from session one — no generic curriculum
- Written recap and ongoing message support
Residential, fast, full transformation.
2, 4 or 6-week intensives — 6-week off-leash freedom programme.
- Your dog lives with Nathan, not in a kennel
- Daily training, real-world exposure, full handover
- 30-day post-programme support included
Set your puppy up for the next decade.
In-home, spaced 2-3 weeks apart — whole family included.
- Socialisation, confidence, bite inhibition, obedience
- Tailored to your puppy's breed and household
- Written recap and homework after every session
The trainer
About Nathan.
Cert IV qualified and NePoPo certified, I'm a science-informed dog trainer based in Newcastle. I work with one family at a time — no group classes, no franchise scripts, no fluff. Just clear training that actually changes how your dog moves through the world.
Every dog I work with gets an honest assessment, a tailored plan, and a trainer who picks up the phone. If I'm not the right fit, I'll tell you that on our first call — and point you somewhere that is.
NePoPoCertified handler — balanced, science-informed method
Cert IVAnimal Behaviour & Training — nationally recognised qualification
1-on-1Solo trainer — your dog never gets handed to an assistant
HonestNo upsells, no lock-in contracts, no vague promises
Local owners
Start your own transformation →
The difference shows up at home.
"Our GSD came back after two weeks and we were genuinely shocked. More settled, actually listens. Whatever happened, it worked."
James & Kylie
Charlestown · Board & Train
"Honestly we were close to giving up. Two weeks later we had a dog we could manage. The handover meant we didn't undo it all in the first week home."
Claire & Nick
New Lambton · Board & Train
"Three sessions in and walks are different already. No more being dragged through Bar Beach by a 35kg dog."
Lisa
Maitland · Private Training
"We have brought our Australian red cattle dog to Nathan for training and to say that it has been the best money we have spent is an understatement. His knowledge and hands on approach with physically demonstrating in real life situations how to train our dogs properly has been game changing. His communication has been fabulous and we will forever have this knowledge with us. 100/10 recommend!"
Sam & Blake
Lake Macquarie
Common questions
Before we get into the deep end.
Yes — no card, no commitment. It's a phone or video chat with Nathan to hear what's going on with your dog and figure out whether I'm the right trainer for the job.
A science-informed, balanced approach — NePoPo certified. Reward-led wherever possible, with clear structure and fair consequences when needed. We tailor the method to your dog, not the other way round.
Private training happens in and around Newcastle & Lake Macquarie — at your home, your usual walk, or wherever the behaviour actually happens. Board & Train is residential and runs from a calm home environment.
Most owners notice meaningful changes within the first session. Lasting change depends on consistency at home — which is why every programme ends with a proper handover and a maintenance plan.
Yes — but I'll assess every case carefully on the free call. Some cases suit private programmes, others suit Board & Train, and a few need a veterinary behaviourist first. I'll always be straight with you about the right path.
Private sessions start at $150 (single) — packages bring this down to $112 per session in the 8-pack. Puppy Foundations is $420 for the full 4-session programme. Board & Train starts at $1,950 for 2 weeks. Full breakdown on the pricing page.
Next step
Let's talk about your dog.
Book a free 15-minute call with Nathan. No hard sell — just an honest conversation about what your dog needs and what'll actually work for your household.