Expert Help for Dog Behaviour Problems in Norfolk


Living with a dog that displays unwanted behaviours can quickly become frustrating, stressful and emotionally draining. Whether your dog ignores recall, pulls constantly on the lead, barks excessively, destroys furniture or struggles to settle at home, these behaviours rarely appear without a reason. Understanding why they happen is the first step towards changing them.

At Mel Newton Dog Training, we help owners overcome a wide variety of dog behaviour problems in Norfolk using kind, reward-based training tailored to each individual dog and family. Rather than looking for quick fixes, Mel develops structured progression plans that build confidence, improve communication and create reliable, long-term results.


Book Your Behaviour Consultation

Why Choose Mel Newton Dog Training?

  • Kennel Club Accredited Instructor (Working Gundogs)

  • Qualified with CIDBT, BCCS and BIPDT

  • Former qualified teacher with exceptional coaching skills

  • Bespoke progression plans for every dog

  • Reward-based, welfare-focused training methods

  • In-home and field-based sessions available

  • Works alongside veterinary professionals where appropriate

  • Supporting dog owners across Swaffham, Foulden, Attleborough and the surrounding Norfolk area
Prefer to speak directly?

Call 07442 974421 or email mel@melnewtondogtraining.co.uk today.


Understanding Dog Behaviour Problems

Many owners assume their dog is being stubborn, naughty or deliberately difficult. In reality, behaviour is a form of communication. Dogs respond to their environment, previous experiences, genetics, emotions and the way they have been taught.


Some behaviours develop during puppyhood because dogs simply haven't yet learned what is expected of them. Others appear after significant life changes such as moving home, introducing another pet, changes in routine or a frightening experience. Breed traits can also influence behaviour, particularly in working breeds that require both mental and physical stimulation.


The good news is that most unwanted behaviours can be improved with the right guidance, consistency and training. By identifying the underlying cause rather than simply correcting the symptom, lasting progress becomes much more achievable.

Common Behaviour Problems We Help With

Every behaviour tells a story. Below are some of the most common reasons owners contact Mel Newton Dog Training.Every behaviour tells a story. Below are some of the most common reasons owners contact Mel Newton Dog Training.

Recall Issues

A poor recall can make every walk stressful and potentially unsafe. Whether your dog ignores you completely or only comes back when they feel like it, reliable recall can be developed through structured training and positive reinforcement.

Pulling on the Lead

Lead pulling is one of the most common frustrations for owners. We help dogs learn to walk calmly alongside you, making walks more enjoyable for both of you.

Jumping Up at People

Excited greetings may seem harmless as puppies, but jumping can quickly become problematic. We teach polite, calm greetings that work in everyday situations.

Excessive Barking

Dogs bark for many different reasons including excitement, boredom, frustration, anxiety or alerting their owners. Identifying the motivation allows us to develop an effective training plan.

Separation Anxiety

Dogs struggling to cope when left alone often display barking, pacing, destructive behaviour or toileting indoors. Through gradual confidence-building exercises, we help dogs become more comfortable with being alone.

Chewing & Destructive Behaviour

Furniture, shoes and household items often become victims when dogs are under-stimulated, anxious or teething. We address both the behaviour itself and its underlying cause.

Reactivity Towards Other Dogs

Reactive behaviour can make walks stressful and unpredictable. Mel provides structured behaviour training to help dogs remain calmer around other dogs while building confidence and focus.

Chasing Behaviour

Whether it's livestock, wildlife, cyclists, cars or the postman, chasing behaviours often stem from natural instincts. Training focuses on improving impulse control and engagement with the owner.

Resource Guarding

Some dogs become protective over food, toys or sleeping areas. Early intervention is important to help build trust and reduce conflict safely.

Hyperactivity & Over-Arousal

Dogs that struggle to settle often benefit from improved routines, clearer communication and appropriate mental stimulation rather than simply more exercise.

House Training Problems

Indoor toileting, urine marking and excitement urination can all have different causes. Understanding why accidents happen allows us to create practical solutions.

Other Behaviour Challenges

Mel also helps with:

  • Digging in the garden
  • Eating faeces
  • Mounting people or other dogs
  • Shadow chasing
  • Tail chasing
  • Food stealing
  • Poor impulse control
  • Household manners
  • Confidence building
  • Breed-specific behavioural challenges

How We Help You Solve Behaviour Problems

Your journey typically begins with an initial consultation where Mel assesses your dog’s behaviour, environment and daily routine. From there, a clear and realistic training plan is created, focusing on achievable steps and steady progression.

Training may include:

  • One-to-one coaching tailored to your dog

  • In-home sessions to address real-life behaviours

  • Field-based training in controlled environments

  • Confidence-building exercises

  • Recall and engagement work

  • Practical routines you can apply daily

  • Ongoing support between sessions

Rather than masking behaviour, Mel focuses on addressing the root cause. This leads to more reliable, long-term results that fit naturally into your everyday life.

For more in-depth behavioural support, you can explore our Behaviour Modification services.


Why Early Training & Support Matters

Behaviour problems rarely resolve without guidance. In many cases, they gradually become more established, making them harder to change over time.

Seeking support early can:

  • Prevent unwanted behaviours from becoming habits
  • Reduce stress for both you and your dog
  • Improve safety in everyday situations
  • Build confidence in nervous or reactive dogs
  • Strengthen communication and trust
  • Create a calmer, more enjoyable home environment
Even if your dog is already showing more complex behaviours, it is never too late to make meaningful progress with the right support and consistency.If your dog benefits from focused attention, our 1-to-1 Dog Training sessions provide a tailored and effective starting point.

A Trainer Who Understands Dogs & Owners

Mel’s background as a qualified teacher plays a significant role in the success of her training. It is not just about teaching dogs, it is about helping owners feel confident, capable and supported.

You will learn:

  • Why your dog behaves the way they do
  • How to respond clearly and consistently
  • How to reinforce positive behaviours
  • How to avoid unintentionally encouraging unwanted habits
  • How to continue training beyond each session
This approach ensures progress continues long after the session has ended.To learn more about Mel’s qualifications, experience and approach, visit the About Page.

Areas We Cover

Mel Newton Dog Training supports clients across South and West Norfolk, including Swaffham, Attleborough, Foulden and surrounding villages within a 20-mile radius.

Training can take place:



In your home


At secure, purpose-selected training fields

In locations suited to your dog’s behaviour needs

This flexible approach allows training to be both practical and effective in real-life situations.

See Training Fields
At-Home Dog Training

FAQs

Can dog behaviour problems really be fixed?

Most behaviour problems can be significantly improved with the right training plan, consistency and owner commitment. While there are no instant solutions, structured training leads to long-term, reliable change.

How long does behaviour training take?

Every dog is different. Some owners see noticeable improvements within the first few sessions, while more complex behaviours require a longer-term progression plan.

Do you only work with certain breeds?

No. Mel works with dogs of all breeds, ages and backgrounds. Training is tailored to suit each individual dog’s personality and needs.

Do you deal with aggressive dogs?

Mel works with reactivity and aggression towards other dogs. Cases involving aggression towards people are not taken on directly, but guidance and referrals to appropriate specialists can be provided.

Is training done at home or in a class?

This depends on your dog’s needs. Many behaviour problems are best addressed through In-Home Training, while others benefit from controlled outdoor environments.

Start Making Positive Changes Today

You do not have to manage challenging behaviour on your own. With the right guidance, a clear plan and ongoing support, your dog can develop into a calmer, more confident and more reliable companion.


Whether you are dealing with recall issues, barking, anxiety, reactivity or everyday behavioural frustrations, taking the first step now can make a lasting difference.

Arrange Your Behaviour Consultation