Fun, Reward-Based Training and Enrichment for Every Dog

If you’re looking for dog training in Aberdeenshire – near Montrose, Johnshaven, or Stonehaven – or online training you can join from anywhere in the UK, you’re in the right place.

I’m Laura Carter, and I specialise in helping dogs of all ages, from bouncy puppies to wise old seniors, and everything in between.

My approach is all about reward-based, game-style training that’s fun for you and your dog, easy to fit into daily life, and designed to solve real problems – like pulling on the lead, not coming when called, or struggling to settle at home.

But it’s not just about “fixing issues.” Many of my clients simply want more for their dogs – more fun, more focus, more calm, and more ways to build a bond. That’s exactly what I offer.

Others need alternatives or additions to walks, whether because of busy lifestyles, bad weather, or a dog on restricted exercise after injury, surgery, or during recovery.

What all my clients have in common is that they value positive, ethical training and want to feel supported by a trainer who is approachable, empathetic, and experienced. That’s exactly what you’ll find here.

Who I Work With

I work with everyday pet dog owners who want life with their dog to feel calmer, easier, and more enjoyable.

My training and activities are perfect for:

Families with new puppies who want to get it right from the start.
Owners of high-energy dogs who never seem tired after a walk.
Busy people, shift workers, or parents who need flexible options.
Dogs (or owners) recovering from surgery, illness, or injury where walks aren’t always possible.
Senior dogs who need gentle enrichment.
Anyone who wants to build a stronger bond with their dog through fun and positive training.

Whether your goal is to stop your dog pulling on the lead, to finally master recall, to discover the joy of scent work, or to simply give your dog a new outlet for their brain, I can help.

What I Offer

In-Person Dog Training (near Johnshaven, Aberdeenshire and Stonehaven)
Small, friendly classes and 1-2-1 training tailored to you and your dog. Courses include Reliable Recall, Pulling to Perfect, Smart Puppy, Cafe Ready Canines, Canine Games Club and Cool, Calm Canines.

Online Dog Training (UK-wide)
Can’t make it in person? I run my Reliable Recall, Pulling to Perfect, and Smart Puppy courses online too. With video lessons, step-by-step guidance, and direct support from me, you can follow the same proven training plan from the comfort of your own home.

Wags Without Walks (Online Membership)
For days when walks aren’t possible—or when you just want to do more with your dog. Each week, you’ll get a new activity to try, a Paws for Thought training topic, and access to a growing library of videos and collections. Plus, there’s a weekly Zoom, a friendly community, and direct access to me whenever you need advice.

Snuffle Spot (Johnshaven)
A cosy, one-to-one enrichment session in my training bothy. Your dog gets to sniff, lick, and explore while you enjoy a cuppa. Ideal for nervous, elderly, or recovering dogs—or simply as a calm alternative to a walk.

Scentwork Training (Aberdeenshire)
Scentwork is one of the most rewarding activities for dogs of all ages and breeds, giving them an outlet for their natural sniffing skills while building focus and confidence. I offer a range of ways to get involved, from Introduction to Scentwork workshops for complete beginners, to weekly group classes in Montrose and Johnshaven, as well as 1-2-1 training for dogs who need a more tailored approach.

For those who want to progress further, I also run National Nosework Association ORT tests and trials, along with the fun and challenging Nosework Games Skill Awards.

Why Choose Me

I’ve been training pet dogs for nearly 20 years and live with my own lively gang – Siri the Dalmatian, Mungo the Spaniel, Kody the Labrador, Dexter the Chihuahua, and Emba the Pomchi – so I know first-hand that every dog is different. My training is always kind, practical, and tailored to the individual dog in front of me.

I’ve been featured as an expert trainer on the Channel 4 show Superstar Dogs hosted by John Barrowman, I’m an IMDT qualified trainer, as well as a National Nosework Association Judge. I’ve also studied with The School of Canine Science to stay at the cutting edge of reward-based training.

I’m proud to offer something a little different to standard village hall classes. My unique training venue includes 8 acres of private woodland, a secure training paddock, and a cosy training bothy (known locally as the Old Potting Shed). It’s the perfect space for dogs and owners to relax, learn, and enjoy training without distractions.

I’m also the author of The Vet Says Rest, a guide for supporting dogs on restricted exercise. Whether you’re just starting out with a puppy, tackling lead pulling or recall, or looking for enriching activities for an older dog, you’ll find support, ideas, and encouragement here.

Not Sure Where to Start?

I get it—choosing the right course or support option can feel a bit overwhelming at first. But you don’t have to figure it out alone.

If you’re not sure what’s right for you and your dog, here are a few easy ways to take the next step:

• Drop me a WhatsApp or email – I’ll get back to you with honest, no-pressure advice laura@lauracartercanines.com or 07548 880299

• Come along to a Snuffle Spot session – A relaxed way to meet me, see the venue, and have an informal chat while your dog enjoys some calm enrichment

However you choose to get in touch, I’m here to help. Let’s make training simple, stress-free and something you both enjoy.

My Dogs

Siri

The calm and steady one. My class demo dog.

Mungo

Full of energy and life

Emba

Small but mighty, with a big personality to match

Dexter

A little dog with a lot of character.

Dog training in Aberdeenshire & online. Fun, reward-based training for recall, puppy, loose lead, scent work & enrichment. Build focus & bond with your dog today!