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Distinctive expertise
Home visits that get results
Training delivered where everyday behaviour challenges naturally happen most.
30 years with dogs and owners
Decades of practical experience helping owners build better relationships.
A clearer idea of our approach
Real customer feedback showing practical training results and lasting progress.
See what dog owners say after working with us
Choosing help for your dog is a big decision, and honest feedback makes that easier. Our dog owner reviews show how we've helped people handle lead pulling, barking, poor recall, and stress at home with calm, practical support. We work directly with you in your own environment, which often helps problems make more sense than they would in a strange setting. The Dog Heeler has built trust with owners through our experienced dog behaviourist services and realistic advice that fits everyday life.
Learn more about us and the experience behind our training approach. You'll see comments from people who wanted a safer, happier routine with their dog and felt more confident after getting started. These reviews and case studies give you a clearer picture of how our approach works before you pick up the phone. You're also welcome to join our Facebook group for training tips, behaviour advice, and support from other dog owners.
Megan Hickey,
3 December 2024
All I can say is that Joe is absolutely incredible at his job and was born to do this. We had Joe at our house last week to help us learn to navigate life with our 4-month-old Rottweiler, Roxy. The way she immediately responded to Joe was amazing, and he helped teach us. In 3 hours, we are so much more confident going forward with training Roxy. He has been at the end of the phone all week and has been consistently checking in on us to see how she’s getting along. We honestly can’t thank Joe enough for all he’s helped us with.
Rosaleen Ruane, 12 November 2024
Joe is an amazing trainer. He has a wealth of knowledge and has been incredibly helpful. He is absolutely amazing with dogs. He is extremely patient and generous with his time; he even called down the day after I texted him to let him know how Jackson was getting on. He had an instant reaction with my dog and had him relaxed in minutes, which I have never seen before. I have learned along with Jackson and have achieved results. It's great to take Jackson out for a walk now without him pulling on the lead anymore. I would highly recommend Joe; he is absolutely amazing with his work.
Kieran Majury, 7 November 2024
From the moment Joe arrived, there was a shift in the atmosphere. Our dachshund Bram must have known that change was coming because he lost his mind at Joe. Never seen him barking like that, even jumping at him to try and get up. Joe flexed his knees, and Bram fell silent. My wife, Rachel, and I love Bram. He's sweet and loves our company; we love him being in our lives. The only problem is the rest of the world was becoming an issue for him. Car drives past the window, bark-bark-bark; someone appears on the TV, bark-bark-bark; I enter the house via the front door after being away for a grand total of two minutes, bark-bark-bark. You get the idea. It was taking a toll on both of us. When my wife was out, it left Bram and me; he was so needy and always wanted to play. It was slowly dragging me down. My wife reached out to Joe. She was sceptical, but Bram was a good boy. He was perfect when we got him – so well-behaved – but in a short space of time, we had ruined him by treating him like a human. Within an hour, Joe had him staying in his bed without a lead. He even had us throwing ham down in front of him, and Bram didn't budge. Before, the ham would not have even touched the ground. Joe even had us take Bram for a walk, which Rachel and I both dreaded because it was a 10% walk, 90% barking at a shadow or a leaf that fell funny. Bram walked without stopping to sniff, let alone bark. My wife and I were amazed. Joe also answered many of our questions and gave good guidance regarding how to act in the future. It was never Bram's fault; it was ours because we were inconsistent and lacked confidence. Joe showed us what to do. He was fantastic and friendly and gave us the confidence to turn a good boy into the greatest boy. He is worth every penny. I cannot recommend him – I'm enough.
Heather Herron,
22 October 2024
I had the pleasure of having Joe train my dogs, and the experience was nothing short of amazing!. I contacted Joe about my 2-year-old Rottweiler who was reactive to people entering the house and had no recall; we also have a Shih Tzu who has changed significantly since Joe visited. From the moment Joe arrived at my home, it was clear that he was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about what he does. Within 30 minutes, he had both dogs on their beds chilling, and he took the time to understand my dogs' behaviours and what we were struggling with and then tailored the training specifically to their needs, helping our situation. Within just a few days, I saw significant improvements in their obedience, responsiveness, and overall behaviour. What I appreciated most was his patient, calm approach; he made the process feel stress-free and understandable for me. He also equipped me with techniques to continue reinforcing the training on my own, and any questions we had, Joe was more than happy to answer. I highly recommend Joe to anyone looking for professional, effective dog training. He has made our home a much calmer and safer place, with both dogs relaxed and enjoying the routine they are now in!
Denise King,
23 September 2024
Joe visited me yesterday, as Molly was very reactive to other dogs, and walking her was a nightmare. Joe explained everything he needed to do to get her into a calm state before even attempting a walk. He explained how my demeanour when walking her only added to the issue. After he explained, the penny dropped. Molly finally became calm, and off we went for our walk. He explained what to do and when to do it and why. We met people with dogs; Joe asked if it was OK to approach their dogs, one a Choc-Lab. After approaching, Molly just looked away; a second dog was barking, another of her triggers. I sat her down not 2ft away, and she had no reaction at all. This morning she lay calm on her bed while I got ready for her walk. It had never happened before; she was so excitable. We went on a great walk with no issues. Can't thank Joe enough; I would recommend him to everyone. Thanks again, Joe.
Inga McQuaid,
4 September 2024
It’s been a whole week since we met Joe. I must say that I do have the finest boy now. Not once has he been back to my bed or a sofa when I can see him! I have purchased an indoor camera and am looking at him when I’m at work now and again, and I can report that I haven’t seen him on the sofas when everyone’s gone to work and school! That is an amazing achievement in and of itself! But Marley has been listening to his commands, going on walks amazingly, not chewing anything, not barking, not jumping up on me and scratching the life out of my legs! I have noticed that I have absolutely changed as a dog owner as well. I do not worry any more; I sleep so well now, knowing that he’s nice and calm in his own bed. I do not worry about people coming over. I go about my day, leaving him for up to 5 hours on his own. And the greatest thing – when I come back, I know he’s happy, loving, calm and comfortable! I honestly can’t thank Joe enough! Changed dog, changed owner, changed life. Thank you.
Dans Barr,
5 November 2024
Joe is an amazing trainer. He has a wealth of knowledge and has been incredibly helpful. He is extremely patient and generous with his time. He had an instant rapport with my two dogs and me, and with his guidance, I have learned along with Max and Arlo and have achieved immediate results. Would highly recommend.
Ashley Louise,
17 August 2024
We cannot thank Joe enough today for helping us to learn how to create a much calmer environment for our GSD Wolf. I was never able to walk him due to pulling on the lead and reacting to other dogs; I dreaded walking him. Also, Wolf never settled in the house, with my partner constantly following him with anxiety. Within 3 hours, Joe has totally transformed our relationship with Wolf. Thank you once again, Joe.
Arlene Bell,
26 August 2024
Here is a little story about Creed he is an 11 month old Xl which he was a little out off control with no obedience and a quite reactive dog, creed was ever only around our family dog from he was 8 weeks old so he didn’t know how to play with other dogs and would not listen to commands, Creed (Greedy Creed) as he never left the table or left anyone alone when food was being opened or around, the video at the start is a video from this morning Before Joe came out, the 2nd video was a very shocked and happy family able to sit down to food without him coming anymore near us! I as a young girl could not walk creed from he was a pup, he would’ve pulled me to a point I would get upset as I couldn’t take him from my home to my family home, and today I was able to walk creed with confidence and a huge smile (some tears) on my face, I am honestly so grateful for Joe and his support I feel as if we have a new dog.
Elaine McGarel,
7 June 2024
Joe came to our house today to work with our Fox Red Lab, who basically didn’t know boundaries for personal space, due to poor health there was no way I had the strength to walk her, 3 hours training me the owner & Bailey my Lab plus taking the 12 year old Jack Russell in hand, I have different dogs tonight in my house, who know personal space & the whole family was able to eat without being attacked for food, this man is unbelievable the gift he has is unreal & Im actually looking forward to the future of being able to have a dog as my companion without being covered in bruises due to her having to be jumping all over me to be the centre of attention, my husband thought my head was cut for considering employing these services & apologised after Joe left, completely converted an unbelievable experience for Dogs & their owners
Tetyana Kokhan,
16 August 2024
I can’t thank Joe enough for the work he’s done in our household with our three dogs all in one appointment! He’s very passionate and professional about what he does. We could see a huge difference in all three of them straight away, and the greatest thing is that it will only improve from now on! All my dogs had behaviour issues, i.e., a lot of barking, jumping, not walking properly on the lead, not listening to my commands, etc., and their behaviour is not even half as bad after just one visit. Just WOW. Thank you so much, Joe. This man is a dog, Whisper!
Bronagh Fitzsimons,
22 June 2024
We got our dog Zoey from a shelter when she was 4/5 months old and experienced some issues given her age. She had separation anxiety, pulled on the lead and was reactive to other dogs when out walking. Joe spent 3 hours with us, and Zoey is like a new dog. She’s not nearly as anxious or needy and actually took herself to bed about 3 days after Joe attended, which was completely unheard of for our needy dog! She has found her independence and is a much happier pup.
Jackie Mullan,
12 July 2024
Hi folks, just on to say thank you to Joe for a Sterling service. He has made such a difference in the life of my wee mutt. I would recommend you give Joe a call if you are having problems.
Katie Stewart,
Bark
Had an amazing experience with Joe! When coming out to the house, he spent a lot of time focusing on the dog’s needs and personalities. He was very thorough during the session, giving us a lot of tips that we will continue to use. After a couple of hours, we could tell an immediate difference. 10/10 recommend. Joe also gave us reassurance that he was a phone call away.
Martin McClinton
verified 6 June 2024
Great to get someone who was very knowledgeable and began training our dog without fuss. It did eat into 4 hours of great work, but in my estimation, it is very much needed. He left me with a few things to keep working on, and I am continuing to do so. Well done, Joe, and thanks for your help. You never know, I might take you up on the call if I need to. And I would recommend Joe for any dog training. 👍👍
Sinead Clarke,
24 May 2024
Joe was amazing; from the minute he walked into my home until he left, he was confident, friendly, and knew exactly what he was doing! My dog Ruairi is a rescue dog; he hadn't slept one night since we got him for three months. We had to sleep downstairs with him. Since Joe arrived, we have never had another sleepless night! Joe taught us as well as Ruairi; we now have a happy dog and could never have done this without Ireland's answer to the dog whisperer! Joe, thank you so much. We 100% recommend you, and your expertise is amazing! We were mesmerised!.
Martin,
verified 3 June 2024
Contacted Joe, as we have a 3-year-old extremely anxious and hyper cockapoo at home who is a huge part of our family, but now with having our newborn daughter, we knew we needed help to calm him down. From my first conversation with Joe, he built me up with so much confidence that he could help us relax our dog Galvin, which to me was hard to believe, as we have tried everything in the past. From the moment Joe set foot into our house and the session began, my wife and I couldn’t believe our eyes; it was like a miracle. Galvin was no longer running riot around our house barking and jumping; he was calm and relaxed. My wife and I were both amazed and, for a moment, thought Galvin was a new dog! Joe also trained me to use the lead, as previously Galvin pulled so badly that it was beginning to be so enjoyable to walk him. Now Galvin walks right by my side, listening to every word I say. Again, this is something that had never happened until we met Joe. Honestly, we highly recommend Joe; he definitely is a miracle worker! We now have a calm, relaxed dog and a stress-free home.
Louise,
verified 1 June 2024
Dog Training: 'Unbelievable' is the word I will use. We rang Joe and asked him to visit, as our young pup had bitten my son a few days ago. The vet advised on the phone to put him down and said it was cocker rage. We have a cocker (Arlo, 10 months) and a Shih Tzu (Oreo, 5). The minute Joe walked into the house, both boys went mad. Arlo was very aggressive ( I actually got bitten), and honestly I struggled badly. The problem, as Joe explained to us, was that I was so anxious, and we were making him worse. Oreo was actually causing Arlo to have the reactions. Oreo is all bark and then standing back to let Arlo be aggressive. Joe quickly informed us that Arlo was so anxious. Joe was out for 3 hours, and both my boys are chilled and on their beds. We know we have to be consistent, and training in us will need to continue. Joe has had a problem, please, for a couple of hours now, and both boys have gone for a walk and are now back on their beds sleeping. Joe saved our dogs, and we feel so confident that we will have 2 amazing dogs.
Kerrie Irvine,
verified 20 May 2024
Wow! What can I say, Joe was amazing. I wanted help with my lurcher, as walking him was a nightmare with aggressive barking and jumping. Joe ended up working with both my dogs, and I can honestly say our house has never been so peaceful. I would definitely recommend Joe 100%. Thanks so much!!
Rosemary Jemphrey
verified 22 June 2024
The work is to begin tomorrow. However, what I have heard and seen on videos and ratings, I have high hopes for a positive outcome.
Amber,
verified 30 April 2024
Where do I even start? Joe "trained" me just as much as he trained my boy! I can finally walk my dog again without having my arms pulled off! Honestly, Joe is fantastic; I highly, highly, highly recommend him! One extremely happy woman: :): Amber Lynass, 30 April 2024. Where to begin, Joe "trained" me just as much as he worked with my boy! He's so encouraging, and I finally have the confidence to walk my dog without being dragged about like a rag doll! Rocky is extremely reactive to other dogs; Joe had him not only walking past other dogs without issue but literally sitting a few short feet away – I never ever thought I'd see that! Thank you for your help!
Bronagh Fitzsimons,
22 June 2024
We got our dog Zoey from a shelter when she was 4/5 months old and experienced some issues with her given her age. She had separation anxiety, pulled on the lead and was reactive to other dogs when out walking. Joe spent 3 hours with us, and Zoey is like a new dog. She’s not nearly as anxious or needy and actually took herself to bed about 3 days after Joe attended, which was completely unheard of for our needy dog! She has found her independence and is a much happier pup
Elaine McGarel,
7 June 2024
Joe came to our house today to work with our Fox Red Lab, who basically didn’t know boundaries for personal space, due to poor health there was no way I had the strength to walk her, 3 hours training me the owner & Bailey my Lab plus taking the 12 year old Jack Russell in hand, I have different dogs tonight in my house, who know personal space & the whole family was able to eat without being attacked for food, this man is unbelievable the gift he has is unreal & Im actually looking forward to the future of being able to have a dog as my companion without being covered in bruises due to her having to be jumping all over me to be the centre of attention, my husband thought my head was cut for considering employing these services & apologised after Joe left, completely converted an unbelievable experience for Dogs & their owners.
Martin,
verified 3 June 2024
Contacted Joe, who has a 3-year-old extremely anxious and hyper cockapoo at home who is a huge part of our family, but now that we have our newborn daughter, we knew we needed help to calm him down. From my first conversation with Joe, he built me up with so much confidence that he could help us relax our dog Galvin, which to me was hard to believe, as we have tried everything in the past. From the moment the dog set foot into our house and the session began, my wife and I couldn’t believe our eyes; it was like a miracle. Galvin was no longer running riot around our house, barking and jumping; he was calm and relaxed. My wife and I were both amazed and, for a moment, thought Galvin was a new dog! Joe also trained me to use the lead, as previously Galvin pulled so badly that it was beginning to be so enjoyable to walk him. Now Galvin walks right by my side, listening to every word I say. Again, this is something that has never happened until we met Joe. Honestly, we highly recommend Joe; he definitely is a miracle worker! We now have a calm, relaxed dog and a stress-free home.
Martin McClinton
verified 6 June 2024
Great to get someone who was very knowledgeable and began training our dog without fuss. It did eat into 4 hours of great work, but in my estimation, it is very much needed. He left me with a few things to keep working on, and I am continuing to do so. Well done, Joe, and thanks for your help. You never know, I might take you up on the call if I need to. Best of luck. And I would recommend Joe for any dog training. 👍👍
Kerrie Irvine,
verified 20 May 2024
Wow! What can I say, Joe was amazing. I wanted help with my lurcher, as walking him was a nightmare with aggressive barking and jumping. Joe ended up working with both my dogs, and I can honestly say our house has never been so peaceful. I would definitely recommend Joe 100%. Thanks so much!!
Louise,
verified 1 June 2024
'Unbelievable' is the word I will use. We rang Joe and asked him to visit, as our young pup had bitten my son a few days ago. The vet advised on the phone to put him down and said it was cocker rage. We have a cocker (Arlo, 10 months) and a Shih Tzu (Oreo, 5). The minute Joe walked into the house, both boys went mad. Arlo was very aggressive (I actually got bitten), and honestly I struggled badly. The problem, as Joe explained to us, was that I was so anxious, and we were making him worse. Oreo was actually causing Arlo to have the reactions. Oreo is all bark and then standing back to let Arlo be aggressive. Joe quickly informed us that Arlo was so anxious. Joe was out for 3 hours, and both my boys are chilled and on their beds. We know we have to be consistent, and training in us will need to continue. Joe has left for a couple of hours now, and both boys have gone for a walk and are now back on their beds sleeping. Joe saved our dogs, and we feel so confident that we will have 2 amazing dogs.
Sinead Clarke,
24 May 2024
Joe was amazing; from the minute he walked into my home until he left, he was confident, friendly, and knew exactly what he was doing! My dog Ruairi is a rescue dog; he hadn't slept one night since we got him for three months. We had to sleep downstairs with him; since Joe arrived, we have never had another sleepless night! Joe taught us as well as Ruairi; we now have a happy, settled dog and could never have done this without Ireland's answer to the dog whisperer! Joe, thank you so much. We 100% recommend you, and your expertise is amazing! We were mesmerised!
Bark
Joe came out to help us with our border collie, who was reactive and nervous and would bark when she saw people; she was also lead-heavy. He taught us how to react and deal with it and helped to improve her confidence and our confidence. She no longer pulls on the lead or reacts to people. I couldn’t recommend Joe enough; he does excellent work in teaching both dog and owner.
My boy was great at home but so reactive towards dogs on walks. Joe came to my house and explained everything starts at home, which I was confused about, but he was totally right. He spent time with us at home, changing how Oreo AND I live. We then went for a walk, & Oreo actually sat down while dogs walked past him!! 'Shocked' was an understatement!! Joe has changed our lives for the better; we still have a way to go, but with the tools Joe has given us, I'm a lot more confident & Oreo will be able to have the ideal life. 🙏❤️
Bark
Joe came to our house after we asked him to, as we had a protective, barking and excitable Shih Tzu. We have a 2-week-old baby and were concerned. However, Joe came and calmed the whole household. Our dog, Lily, now listens to us and respects when we need time with the baby. And she has never been happier or calmer! Walks have also been transformed, as she used to react to other dogs, which she no longer does. The optimal decision we made for her and us was contacting Joe.
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