Niamh training in misty forest
Reactivity Specialist · Northern Ireland

Struggling With Your
Dog's Behaviour?

If your dog is reactive, pulling on the lead, or ignoring your recall — you're not alone. I've been there with Zeus, and I found a way through. Let me show you the same path.

Sound Familiar?

The Challenges You're Facing

01

The Jumping Nightmare

Your dog treats every visitor like a trampoline. What started as puppy excitement has turned into a full-blown habit that leaves you apologising constantly.

02

Walks That Feel Like Battle

Every walk is a wrestling match. You're being yanked down the pavement whilst your dog acts like they've never seen a lead before.

03

The Disappearing Act

Off lead, your dog develops selective deafness. You're calling, bribing, and eventually chasing whilst they pretend you don't exist.

About Niamh

Training That
Actually Works

When I got Zeus, I was completely out of my depth. I lived through the chaos, the reactive outbursts, the embarrassing walks — and nearly gave up. But I found a better path, and now I'm here to show you the same.

As a Weimaraner & High-Drive Breed Trainer based in Mid Ulster, I specialise in reactive dogs and working breeds. My approach is practical, honest, and tailored to your dog's specific needs — no jargon, no quick fixes, just real results.

Reactive Dogs
Working Breeds
High-Drive Dogs
Weimaraners
Niamh training three dogs outdoors

Mid Ulster · Northern Ireland · Online

Why Forge & Lead

What Sets Us Apart

01

Straightforward Training That Works

Practical methods that fit into your real life. No complicated jargon, just clear guidance that makes sense and delivers results.

02

Support From Someone Who Gets It

I've walked this path with Zeus. I felt that frustration and nearly gave up. I found a better way, and now I'm here to guide you through it.

03

Genuine, Lasting Change

Training that transforms your daily life from stressful to enjoyable. We build habits and skills that stick long after our sessions end.

Honest Assessment

Is This Programme Right For You?

This Is For You If:

  • You're ready to commit fully and do the homework between sessions
  • You have the budget to invest in professional training right now
  • You want a tailored approach based on your dog's specific needs
  • You're willing to practise consistently between sessions
  • You understand genuine change takes time, dedication, and patience

This Is NOT For You If:

  • You're looking for someone to 'fix' your dog without your involvement
  • You expect instant results or overnight transformations
  • You're not willing to practise the techniques between sessions
  • You want a single session or quick fix (I don't offer these)
  • You can't commit to following through with the full programme

The Process

How It Works

When you work with me, you get a clear, structured path — not guesswork. Here's exactly what happens from the moment you apply.

01

Book Your Assessment

Apply online and I'll reach out within 24 hours. We'll arrange a free assessment so I can understand your dog, your situation, and whether we're the right fit — no pressure, no commitment.

02

Meet & Consultation

We meet in person. I assess your dog's triggers, threshold, and behaviour patterns. You get an honest picture of what's happening and a clear explanation of why — before any programme begins.

03

Your Training Programme

A fully tailored plan built around your dog — not a generic course. Private 1:1 sessions, personalised homework, video feedback, and WhatsApp support between sessions so you're never left guessing.

04

Graduate

You finish with a dog that walks calmly, responds reliably, and a handler who knows exactly what to do. You leave with the tools, the confidence, and the results — for life.

When You Work With Me

Here's What You Actually Get

Walks You Look Forward To

No more scanning ahead for other dogs. No more crossing the road, holding your breath, or dreading the next encounter. Your dog passes triggers calmly — and so do you.

A Dog You Can Trust

On lead, off lead, at the vet, in the car, around kids — you know exactly how your dog will behave. That reliability transforms your relationship and your daily life.

Skills That Last a Lifetime

You don't just get a better dog — you become a better handler. I teach you the why behind every technique so you can maintain the results long after our sessions end.

Real, Measurable Progress

Every session has a goal. Every week you'll see a difference. I track your dog's threshold, triggers, and responses so we always know what's working and what to adjust.

Support Between Sessions

You're not on your own between appointments. WhatsApp access means you can send me a video, ask a question, or flag a setback — and I'll respond with practical guidance.

Honest, Tailored Advice

I won't take your money if I don't think I can help you. Every plan is built around your specific dog — their breed, history, and triggers — not a one-size-fits-all course.

Money
Back
Guarantee

We're That Confident — It's Guaranteed

I only take on clients I genuinely believe I can help. If you commit fully to the programme — attend every session, complete the homework, and follow the plan — and you don't see real, measurable results, I'll give you your money back. No awkward conversations. No small print. That's how confident I am in what I do.

Client Stories

What Others Are Saying

Max

"Niamh is extremely knowledgeable, professional and patient. Each session was tailored toward exactly what we needed. Can't thank her enough for all her guidance."

Lauren Bigger

Max · Caucasian Shepherd

Sadie

"Niamh is great at what she does, her approach and techniques suited my puppy perfectly. Would definitely recommend to anybody 🐾"

Emma Rachel

Sadie · Golden Retriever

Cooper

"Cooper responded well to Niamh's approach. Learned lots of tips and techniques. Making my good boy even better!"

Paula Hackett

Cooper · Cavachon

Maggie

"Niamh has been a brilliant trainer. Her care and passion for dogs is clear to see. I would highly recommend!"

Donal McGuckin

Maggie · Cocker Spaniel

Daisy

"The advice Niamh has given me is paying off. If you put in the work it really pays off. She is so easy to talk to."

Jacqueline Boyle

Daisy · Cockapoo

Drake

"Niamh has made a brilliant impact on Drake. As a high-energy large breed, walks were challenging due to pulling and lunging towards other dogs, and he would bounce and jump on visitors. After just one session with Niamh, he was calmly sitting and waiting to greet guests, and he's now making fantastic progress with loose lead walking and safely socialising on pack walks. We're absolutely delighted with the results!"

Rachel Hurl

Drake · Weimaraner

Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Pricing is discussed during your free consultation call, as packages are tailored to your dog's specific needs. I want to make sure we're the right fit before any money changes hands.

I'm based in Magherafelt, Mid Ulster, Northern Ireland. I work with clients across the local area and also offer online support for those further afield.

Reactivity and behavioural issues rarely improve on their own — in fact, they often worsen with time as patterns become more ingrained. Early intervention gives the best results.

Yes, absolutely. If you start on the Standard package and want to access the community and pack walks, we can discuss upgrading at any point.

Genuine behavioural change requires consistency and follow-through. Single sessions rarely produce lasting results — I only work with clients who are committed to the full process.

This can be discussed during your consultation call. I want to make quality training accessible, and I'm happy to have an honest conversation about what works for you.

Ready to Start?

Apply for Your
Free Consultation

Fill out the form below to apply. We'll review your application and get back to you within 24 hours.

Your Information

Your Dog's Information

Training Details

After submitting, you'll receive an email to confirm your application. We'll be in touch within 24 hours.