Focused Paws Training

Mark’s journey into dog training began in 2010, guiding rescue dogs through fun agility sessions in Cornwall. It wasn’t just about the obstacles it was about unlocking joy, building trust, and giving dogs a sense of control in their world. That belief still drives everything at Focused Paws Training today.

​

With over 30 years in the military, Mark brings a calm presence, structured thinking, and steady leadership to every session. He understands the power of predictability and the importance of emotional regulation for both dogs and humans.

​

As a qualified yoga teacher, Mark offers a quiet strength and deep awareness that shapes his training style. Although not always overt, his understanding of breath, movement, and nervous system responses naturally informs his approach especially with anxious or reactive dogs.

​

After three years volunteering at a busy rescue centre, Mark deepened his experience with nervous, shutdown, and traumatised dogs learning how to decode body language, rebuild trust, and offer safety without pressure. This work became the cornerstone of his philosophy: compassionate, concept-based training that meets dogs where they are.

​

Mark’s approach is deeply inspired by the groundbreaking methods of Absolute Dogs, whose concept-based training transformed how he saw behaviour not as something to control, but something to understand and shape through games, connection, and emotional resilience. Their ethos helped unlock a kinder, more effective way to support dogs of all backgrounds, particularly rescues who thrive when given choices, clarity, and playful engagement. This influence is woven into every session at Focused Paws Training.

​

At Focused Paws Training, Mark helps dogs from all backgrounds rescues from abroad, local adoptees, boisterous pups, and sensitive souls grow into resilient, responsive companions. His sessions blend purposeful play, calm communication, and clarity. You won’t find harsh commands or power struggles here just progress built on trust.