🐾 About Dogs That Fit 🐾
I’m Sarah McConnell, a force-free trainer and lifelong dog lover based in Cheltenham.
With four dogs, two cats, and a house that’s rarely quiet, I understand what everyday dog ownership really looks like — the good, the messy, and everything in between.
At Dogs That Fit, I help real people build calm, confident dogs through clear, positive, and practical training. My goal isn’t perfection — it’s harmony. Training that fits your dog, your lifestyle, and your goals.
What Makes Dogs That Fit Different
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Real-life results. I focus on skills you’ll actually use — calm greetings, loose-lead walks, reliable recall, easy downtime.
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Tailored to you. Every dog and household is different, so your plan is built around your real routines, not a checklist.
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Force-free, science-based methods. Kind, modern training that builds trust, not tension.
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Experience with all sorts. From first-time puppy parents to reactive rescues, I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t.
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Grounded in hands-on experience. I’ve raised four dogs from puppyhood, including three within nine months, so I’ve lived what works and what doesn’t (and how to stay sane through it all).
My Philosophy
Kind. Clear. Force-Free.
Training that fits — your dog, your life, your goals.
Training for Every Moment
It’s not just about perfect sits or tidy recalls.
It’s about the moments in between — the ones that make living with your dog feel easy.
The morning walk where you finally breathe.
The front door that stays calm when friends visit.
The recall that works when it really matters.
The quiet evening when they curl up next to you, content.
That’s what we train for.
Not tricks. Not quick fixes.
Real dogs. Real life.
Training that fits.
What your dog learns...
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Everyday Skills
Calm, connected walks and reliable recall.
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Impulse control and focus under distraction
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Shifting from high to low energy calmly
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Check-ins and staying close
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Loose-lead and leash awareness
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Door and threshold manners
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Confidence & behaviour
Build trust, focus, and calm in everyday situations.
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Confidence in new environments
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Handling frustration and excitement
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Focus and engagement under pressure
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Relaxing around triggers
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Self-regulation and emotional balance
It’s not about training — it’s about helping your dog understand how to fit into your world.
Services
1
Initial Consultation
90 minutes
Your starting point for calm, confident progress.
I’ll visit you at home to understand your dog’s behaviour, your goals, and your daily routine.
You’ll leave with a clear action plan, simple techniques you can use straight away, and a written guide to keep building success.
Kind Words
A few lovely words from people who’ve seen the difference kind, practical training can make.
Dog Training Insights
Ready to Start?
If you have any inquiries or would like to schedule training, feel free to reach out! I am here to help you.