At Ocean Paws Dog Training, our mission is to empower dog owners with a deeper understanding of canine behavior and learning. By applying this knowledge, we strive to support and train dogs in a way that nurtures a strong bond built on trust, respect, and mutual understanding. 🐾
Penny established Ocean Paws Dog Training in 2014, whilst working as a part-time assistant dog groomer. In 2015, she deepened her commitment to working with animals by volunteering as a dog trainer at a local training club.
Penny’s love for animals, especially dogs, blossomed early in life, inspired by a local collie named Alice. As a child, she eagerly tried to befriend Alice, but her attempts were met with bites, leaving Penny confused and often in tears. Later, she learned that Alice was unwell, a discovery that sparked her lifelong curiosity about animal behavior and their well-being.
Throughout her school years, Penny’s interest in animals expanded beyond dogs, becoming the central theme of her studies and assignments. As a young adult, she pursued formal education in animal care and worked in a pet store for three years, gaining hands-on experience with various species.
After being made redundant, Penny embarked on extensive travels across Europe and spent several years in the telecommunications industry. However, her passion for animals was reignited in 2013 when she accepted a part-time role assisting a local dog groomer. This opportunity rekindled her love for working with animals, leading her to dedicate herself fully to dog training and behavior support.
With her own two dogs, Ziggy and Sampson, and hearing from local dog owners seeking guidance on behavioral challenges, Penny was inspired to pursue her passion for dogs more deeply. She earned a nationally recognized Certificate IV in Companion Animal Services and Behavior through the Delta Institute, marking the start of her professional journey in dog training.
Penny’s dedication to understanding and improving dog behavior has grown into a true obsession. In her free time, she dives into research and literature to continually expand her knowledge and refine her expertise.
To ensure she stays at the forefront of modern dog training techniques, Penny is an active member of the APDT (Australian Professional Dog Trainers Association), PPGA (Pet Professional Guild Australia), and the Delta Institute. She regularly attends webinars and internationally acclaimed conferences to stay informed about the latest advancements in the field.
Penny embraces a progressive, force-free, reward-based training philosophy. Her mission is to empower dog owners with the tools and knowledge to foster a happy, harmonious life with their canine companions. 🐾
Memberships Associations
Working with a fully Accredited Dog Trainer is essential.
To ensure that Penny is up to date with the most effective dog training methods and the latest industry news, she is a member of the following organisations.
Our private behaviour consults are $220 (1.5 hour-2 hours) for the first session and $130 for each subsequent session (1 - 1.5 hours).
Consult packages are also available for complex behavioural issues.