Catriona instills in me the assurance that we can help my dog overcome her anxiety around other dogs, which stems from a traumatic encounter.
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See what reviewers are saying
We first met catriona three years ago with our first dachshund puppy. She attended puppy and teenager lessons and we credit catriona with our dog now off lead walking, calm in pubs and cafes and s... See more
Company replied
We are 1 session in with Catriona and already she has helped in ways that we would never have thought of. We have a Border Collie (Very Hyper) and GSD (Completely Placid), different types but because... See more
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A big thank you to Catriona for introducing us to Mantrailing. We had initially tried scent training with our high energy and easily distracted rescue Vizsla but he found it hard to stay focused. Ca... See more
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Company details
Written by the company
Effective, positive and multi award winning concept based training, to help your dog train for the situation not whilst you and they, are in it. Scientifically backed ethical and evidence based 'concept' training that reshapes your dog’s thinking. At A Pawsitive Step, I do things differently. As an autistic dog behaviour trainer, my unique perspective is my superpower - I SEE the world through YOUR Dog's eyes, transforming behaviour struggles into success in a fresh, effective way. This results in those training struggles turning into training strengths. Own the dog you've always dreamed of and watch them transform in as little as three weeks.
Contact info
Hodge Lane, SN16 0BP, Malmesbury, United Kingdom
- 07919 441705
- hello@apawsitivestep.co.uk
- apawsitivestep.co.uk
4.6
Excellent
35 reviews
No history of asking for reviews
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Catriona instills in me the assurance…
Catriona instills in me the assurance that we can help my dog overcome her anxiety around other dogs, which stems from a traumatic encounter.
24 December 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Hello Star, hoping you had a Happy Christmas.
Thanks for this review. I’m so pleased that you feel you can work to make changes in your Dog’s life so that both you and they benefit.
Looking forward to continuing work with you to bring about those desired results. Thanks again and Happy New Year!
Confidence
Catriona gives me confidence that we can get my dog through her fears of other dogs originating from a bad attack by a dog.
31 July 2025
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Robin, thank you for this heartwarming response to the sessions so far. You have both had to work through this struggle and I know you’ll succeed with your ‘can-do’ attitude. I truly appreciate this review.
A very talented and hugely…
A very talented and hugely knowledgeable trainer and behaviourist with vast experience of even the most challenging scenarios. I cannot thank you enough for helping us 🙏🙏
29 July 2025
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Good morning Ellie and thank you. ‘Solo Walks’ and concept training go hand in hand. Thank you for trusting me with your Dogs and continuing to work on their individuality. You will succeed by following your current path of growth and learning. Your kindness and patience will pay off!
Passionate and knowledgable training
Catriona was incredible with both of our pups, one of whom began lessons as a baby and the other at 2 years old. She provides academic peer-reviewed research to diagnose and treat behaviour related conditions in dogs with clarity and passion, I’m thankful to have her guidance and knowledge support my dogs through their training!
30 July 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Cameron, it is always a sincere pleasure to work with people who take a proactive, kind and patient approach to their training. I’m honestly grateful for these kind words of support and encouragement. I enjoy my training and work so much, I’m always delighted when it encourages others and gives them hope that looking after the ‘whole dog’ is the training breakthrough.
Best Dog Trainer out there
We first met catriona three years ago with our first dachshund puppy. She attended puppy and teenager lessons and we credit catriona with our dog now off lead walking, calm in pubs and cafes and shops and having the most lovely temperament you could wish for your family dog.
Most recently, catriona has helped us with our newest boy dachshund with his anxiety and reactiveness around other dogs by really getting into the root of his problems (IVDD and possible diet issues). She has given us saucy amazing advise with we are now so positive about his quality of life .
Both our dogs love catriona and we would recommend her to anyone within the Chippenham area to see her before anyone else
30 July 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Oh my goodness! I saw the title after seeing the message about the review. Rachel. I am really thankful and touched by this. I only do what I do as simply love it. I always hope that people will ‘get’ the interpretation and knowledge I have and I am delighted that you felt so upbeat after I left. I think your two Dogs will end up with a fair more harmonious and happy household once the pain and diet are in balance. You out in so much effort anyway, I just had to give you some pointers in an even better direction. Thank you again, Rachel.
A big thank you to Catriona.
A big thank you to Catriona for introducing us to Mantrailing. We had initially tried scent training with our high energy and easily distracted rescue Vizsla but he found it hard to stay focused. Catriona suggested Mantrailing may be better suited to his temperament. We have now been doing it for a year and the difference in him is amazing. He has gained confidence by learning to solve problems for himself and clearly enjoys the work. He is much calmer and we are sure it is helping him cope better with everyday challenges. Catriona's enthusiasm, deep knowledge and guidance has been so helpful to both him and us.
5 June 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Oh my Gosh. When is work with dogs and their handlers, I just want to make sure that they feel connected to their dog in hopefully a way they hadn’t before. My enthusiasm is purely driven by hoping you’ll get the same connection over and over.
Your review is a gift and I can’t thank you enough for it. So pleased that your Dog and your life at home is rewarding.
Great start!
I’ve only had one session so far but I feel that Catriona is completely in tune with my puppy and was very patient and supportive with regards to my worries. She sent through a wealth of fascinating and informative literature including some excellent insight into the way dogs think in addition to fantastic games I can play with my puppy to help her to learn. I have every faith that by the end of the training my dog Juno will be the best behaved and happiest canine in Gloucestershire !
30 May 2025
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
What a lovely surprise to receive such heartening news early on in your training plans together, thank you so much!
I’m sure that Juno will want to practice with you and shape her thoughts into more focused and steady behaviours (…as much as Puppy can manage in the early stages of life Lots of rest will help too!)
It’s a great foundation you’re laying for the future together, I’m really looking forward to continuing our lessons together.
Great course ,very well presented…
Great course ,very well presented ,learn't lots Cannot wait for next one .
24 May 2025
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Jeremy, thanks so much for the feedback. Scent detection is definitely something your Dog enjoys and he did so well in the environment around him too. I know he has a passion for pheasants! Thanks for coming along and I hope we can welcome you back for other UK Sniffer Dog Challenges soon!
Catriona loves and understands dogs
Catriona loves and understands dogs. She is always full of good advice and is very supportive. She’s doing a great job of training me and my dog and helping us build on our bond 😊
Thank you Catriona😊
25 April 2025
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Morning Ceinwen. It never fails to honestly make me feel very grateful when someone reaches out and passes on their best wishes through a review. Thank you.
We have watched your lovely Dog grow in understanding and start to develop a new strength in their love of being with you. Through appreciation that she’s sensitive and needs time to adapt and grow her confidence. She’s been doing that in spades! A big well done to you!
Definitely a Pawsitive Step for you and your dog
Catriona has made training and learning about my daughters dog such a positive experience for her. As my daughter is autistic having the flexibility of one to one sessions really helped. We all looked forward to Catrionas visits and I highly recommend her kind and knowledgeable training guidance. My daughter has come away with much more understanding of her dogs needs, body language and how to positively help an excitable young lurcher! Thank you Catriona
13 February 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Kerry, thank you so much for this. I know Leah has been a really insightful and keen learner, a real treat to work with. Her enthusiasm and emotional awareness grew so quickly for the skills being used to help her Dog, it was great to be a part of this. I do hope the pleasure in helping your teenage Dog navigate our world continues.
Read the RULES
It was a shame I never got as far as the training as it looked very good , our two year old Chow Chow did so want training classes but my wife fell ill and I changed the date we were due to start to one further on this year . As it turned out I was my wife’s carer and so I passed our dog on to a good home, by then I cancelled the lessons booked as no dog no need for lessons but when I was told no money back read my rules I was very disappointed , Wheres the compassion there ? I know business have to have things in place to protect them and the customers but it was not intentional.
16 January 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Thank you for your feedback. I was truly sorry to hear about your wife’s illness and the difficult circumstances you faced. I completely understand that unexpected life events happen, and I always aim to be as fair and compassionate as possible while also ensuring the business can continue to operate sustainably.
Our policies are in place to provide clarity, consistency and stay within the consumer contracts law for all clients. While I do my best to offer flexible alternatives, we have to draw a line somewhere to keep the business running and maintain the high-quality training and ongoing development that benefits all clients and their dogs.
I appreciate your understanding and am sorry that on this occasion, I couldn’t support you in a way that felt right for your situation. If there’s anything else we can do to assist in the future, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Wishing you and your family all the best.
Amazing trainer
30 September 2024
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Thanks so much, Emma. Working with you has been so rewarding and I hope you and your dogs continue to flourish at Doggy Playschool. Your facilities and care are second to none.
Super friendly and knowledgeable
Could’ve spoken for hours, so informative and helpful
25 September 2024
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Gabrielle, thank you so much for this. It was really lovely to meet you all. I hope you will continue to see positive changes in your gentle Girl.
Not great!
Not great!
Felt a bit caotic, our dog was quite hyper so he got put behind cardboard. The trainer was quite rude at times, I was on the phone and she started shouting at the people in the class, we also were trying to listen to the instruction given while in the class, trying to ‘feed the bed’ and just control him so missed the instruction and she shouted at me rudely as to ‘that’s wrong what did I say?!’ Had to chase for email instructions that were said to have been sent but weren’t and as the weeks went on more and more people stopped going to the class! We have known a few others who had same experiences and stopped going. There were clear favourites who were allowed certain treats and they got so much fuss over their dog (and car!) but we used the same treat and told not to use it! Good for a little puppy exposure but they don’t get to mix at all! I’d honestly recommend trying elsewhere.
Update - I am writing my review 18months late as that is when the link was sent to me to write my review - I’d have done it sooner if it was provided. You did snap at us in the class as in ‘what did I just say’ in a shouting way as we didn’t hear so it is not that we were necessarily doing well. It was clear there were favourites as we were told not to use a certain reward treat by you but the favourite couple were ok to, they were also always the people chosen for demos (not saying it should be us but mix it up!) also regarding the send outs of missed emails this was fairly regular and actually a few in the class also hadn’t been sent there’s until the end. I don’t believe we even received the certificate for completing.
5 January 2024
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Hi Jasmine,
Thank you for sharing your feedback. I’m sincerely sorry that you waited 18 months to write up your concerns as I had you in attendance in January 2023. I wish you had spoken to me or written to me sooner, as I would have been eager to help right away.
I’ve reviewed my records and ensured that all handouts were sent without being chased except for one instance where I accidentally missed you from the email list.
Regarding the training techniques you mentioned, such as not allowing Puppies to mix too soon, these are based on extensive clinical observations and trials. Early over-stimulation can lead to overwhelming experiences for Puppies, and my aim is to help train them to handle new situations calmly.
The boxes in the training environment are designed to build optimism and serve as obstacles to help break eye contact for Dogs that might feel overwhelmed by the sights and sounds. This technique helps interrupt cycles of fear or frustration and supports effective distraction training.
It may seem like I have favourites, but I assure you that I don't. I tend to speak more often to those who need additional verbal guidance, but I am always observant of everyone. It just means that You and your lovely Brown Lab, Rolo, were doing very well with the training and mainly needed verbal praise rather than guidance. This might have made the support feel unbalanced during the face-to-face sessions.
My website clearly states that the classes focus on behaviour-led training. While this approach may be new to some, it is based on the latest research to ensure effective, long-term positive outcomes in the relationship between you and your Dog.
Thank you again for your feedback. If you have any further questions or need additional support, please feel free to reach out.
Best Regards,
Catriona
A different approach to dog training
Charlie and I have just completed a 4-week course with Catriona and we both enjoyed every session and have learnt a lot . It’s definitely work in progress but Catriona explained the science behind her approach and I understand the reasoning . Her methods are not only interesting but great fun for dog and owner ! I feel confident that the training is making a huge difference to my excitable cockapoo . Thank you Catriona .
21 June 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Good Evening Val, what a lovely review to come home to. I've loved working with you and Charlie and to hear and see the steady progress made. small , consistent steps make quicker progress than great big ones and ive seen that in Charlies greetings at the Door. Thank you for letting me work with you both, its been a huge pleasure and I look forward to hearing about your progress.
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Dear Fiona, Thank you so much for the heartfelt statement. It's a pleasure working with you and your Young Dog and I look forward in seeing you all again, in our Classes together.
1-2-1's
We couldn't be happier with the training our dog received from Catriona! Her expertise, patience, and genuine love for dogs shine through in every session. Our dog has definitely made progress thanks to her clear guidance and positive reinforcement techniques. Catriona's friendly and approachable nature made the experience enjoyable for both us and our dog. Highly recommend her services to anyone looking for a top-notch trainer!
12 June 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Hi Ben, thank you so much for such a lovely review. I've really enjoyed working with you, Fred and Family and know the teenage times can be a stretch. Keep up the great work!
Expert knowledge with empathy
Very knowledgeable with a great understanding of not just dogs but also of humans. Catriona is patiently and emphatically teaching me how to work WITH my dog. I’ve owned dogs all my life but have never learned from a professional as I thought that they were bossy & dictatorial or so pathetic that it takes months to make any progress. So having trawled through the internet I thought that I’d give Pawsitive Step a go with low expectations. How wrong I was!
Working with Catriona has transformed my understanding of canines. She has also helped with basics like where to find the best quality feed at the best price.
My dog and I look forward to our classes where we both learn by having fun ! Who knew that was possible?!!
3 January 2024
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Dear Amanda, Firstly I must apologise as I didnt receive notification that you had left a review. I would never have left it this long had I known! I cannot tell you what a delight you have been to work with, alongside your wonderful Family of Dogs. Your willingness to learn, to incorporate new alongside existing knowledge and to see the results have been great. I do hope that we will continue to work together, Thank you very much for your heartfelt review.
Not your traditional puppy training class
I attended the 6 week puppy training course which my little Labrador, we fully enjoyed it and learnt a lot. This course was different to your traditional puppy classes where you are in a village hall teaching your puppy to sit, we were training in real life surroundings. As a veterinary nurse myself it is nice to hear Catriona refer a lot to veterinary behaviourist and to look at the dog as a whole.
24 February 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Hannah, I honestly appreciate the feedback. Great top hear form you. I always try to look at the whole Dog as obedience is only as good as the desire in the Dog to wish to listen. That all important relationship start is key and Im glad that you felt it proved so much worth for you and your Pup. He was a Star! Thanks again for this review.
Group walk
Always such a positive experience and Catriona is always so enthusiastic and knowledgeable. So many things to take away from the session, new and old things that need revision.
20 January 2024
Reply from A Pawsitive Step Dog Training & Behaviour
Thank you so much for this cheery review on such a wet and muddy morning! I'm delighted that it's proved of value and hope to see you again on the next walk, Sarah.
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