
Force-Free Dog Training That Looks at the Whole Dog
Helping anxious dogs and their people find a calmer way forward.
The Poochie People was created for dog guardians who want more than quick fixes. Nicola helps you understand what is happening beneath the behaviour, then builds a plan that feels realistic for your dog and your life.

Meet Nicola Cook
Hi, I'm Nicola, the trainer behind The Poochie People.
I have been running my business since 2020 and training professionally since 2021. I am a Victoria Stilwell Positively Dog Trainer (VSPDT) and a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT), with a particular interest in anxiety, complex behaviour, and helping people get to the root of what their dogs are experiencing.
Professional Credentials
- Victoria Stilwell Positively Dog Trainer (VSPDT)
- Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT)
- Years in professional dog care and training
- Specialist focus on separation anxiety and complex behaviour support
My Training Philosophy
Holistic training means looking at the whole dog, not just the behaviour you want to change.
Your dog's background, health, nutrition, movement, posture, home environment, relationships, and daily life can all influence how they feel and respond.
Training should never be about pressure, intimidation, or outdated labels. It should help you understand your dog, build trust, and create realistic changes that work for both of you.
What Working Together Looks Like
First, Nicola takes a deep look at your dog's history, needs, environment, and the bigger picture around the behaviour.
Then we work together on a bespoke, achievable plan that is realistic for your dog and your household.
The goal is for you to feel clearer, more confident, and better equipped to support your dog long after the session ends.
Why This Work Matters
Many people come to The Poochie People after trying other trainers, advice, or quick fixes that only seemed to address the symptom.
My work is about helping you understand the cause, support your dog with compassion, and move forward with a plan that makes sense.
What Dog Guardians Say
Real experiences from dogs and their people.
"Working with Nicola on Rhi’s separation anxiety has honestly been life changing. Her knowledge, patience, and clear guidance made the whole process straightforward and achievable."
— Bethany D’Inverno
"Nicola really listened and gave me invaluable tools to help with my dog’s behaviour on walks. I felt supported throughout and never pressured into booking more sessions."
— Alana Littler
"Nic has been compassionate, kind, knowledgeable, and full of helpful ideas. She gave us a clear plan of action when things felt stressful."
— Ruth Knight
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you want kind, informed, holistic support for your dog, reach out through the contact form or request a consult.
Reach Out