About Dave

I'm Dave, founder of Dave's Dogs. I provide small, structured countryside group walks for dogs across Colchester and the surrounding villages.

The dogs that shaped me

I shared twelve years with Sylvester, my Labrador, who was part of my life through everything. Losing him reinforced how important trust and consistency are when someone else is responsible for your dog.

I now live with Albert, a rescue vizsla, and that experience has deepened my understanding of behaviour even further . Living with a dog who has their own complex history and behaviour struggles teaches you patience, observation and empathy in a way that theory alone never can.

Those experiences shape how I work every day.

My background and ongoing study

I am fully insured, DBS checked and Canine First Aid trained.

I am currently studying at Level 6 to qualify as a Clinical Animal Behaviourist with the Canine Behaviour College. I chose to pursue this qualification because I want a deeper understanding of how dogs think, communicate and cope within social environments. It directly influences how I assess suitability for group walks and how I manage group dynamics calmly and safely.

I am also a qualified canine hydrotherapist. Although I am not currently practising, that training gave me a strong understanding of canine anatomy, movement and physical wellbeing. It informs how I think about stamina, comfort and long-term soundness when walking dogs.

What you can expect from me

Every dog in my groups is known properly, not just managed. Groups are kept small and stable and each dog gets to know one another because of this stability. Walks take place in countryside locations, not busy housing estates. Calm management and clear communication are priorities.

I want dogs to come home settled, not overstimulated. I want guardians to feel confident and reassured.

If that sounds like the kind of walk you want for your dog, the first step is a meet and greet.