Trusted local dog trainer & walker
If walks with your dog have become more stressful than enjoyable, you’re not alone — and with the right training, things really can get better.
Dog training
Creating a partnership that lasts a lifetime. From basic obedience to solving tricky behaviours, I use positive, games-based training that builds focus, confidence, and real-life skills. Fun, effective, and tailored to you and your dog.
Puppy training
Starting your puppy off on the right paw makes all the difference. My fun, positive sessions focus on confidence, social skills, and good manners – giving your pup the best foundation for life.
Dog walking
I offer calm, individual walks tailored to your dog’s needs. No pack walks – just solo adventures or walks with dogs from the same household, giving your dog attention, exercise, and enrichment at their own pace.
Walk & train
If you’re at work all day, I’ll walk and train your dog, practicing good manners out in the real world. My fun, games-based sessions build confidence, focus, and reliability, so you come home to a happier, calmer dog.
Meet the pack
At Penarth Dog Training, I keep things simple: science-based, reward-led training that works in the real world.
Not sure if training would help your dog? Feel free to get in touch for a quick chat about what’s going on.
I’m Richard Phelps. I compete in agility and train in competition obedience, so I understand how focus, confidence and teamwork between dog and handler are built step by step.
But most of the dogs I work with aren’t competition dogs — they’re much-loved family pets who need help with everyday challenges like pulling on the lead, barking at other dogs, poor recall or over-excitement at home.
Whether you’ve got a brand-new puppy, a lively adolescent or an older dog who needs a refresher, I offer tailored 1-to-1 dog training in Penarth and the surrounding Vale of Glamorgan area to help you and your dog enjoy calmer, more relaxed walks and a better life together.
Your first session usually lasts around 90 minutes. We’ll talk through what’s been happening, look at why the behaviour is occurring, and start practical training exercises you can use straight away — along with a clear plan to continue at home.
Happy humans
“I cannot recommend Richard highly enough! His knowledge and application is so effective and his way of explaining things makes everything click into place. With the tools Richard has given me, I feel confident I will be able to positively develop my dog’s behaviour in a fun and exciting way!”
Veronica C.
“Richard’s support and advice has been invaluable while training my very reactive 10 year old Terrier. His fun and gentle methods have encouraged and strengthened the bond between me and my little dog. Walks are so much calmer than they used to be! Turns out you can, most definitely, teach old dogs new tricks!”
Abigail K.
” Richard is a great trainer, really knowledgeable and engaging both with me and my puppy. Clearly loves dogs and making sure both owner and dog get the best out of each other”.
Mark D.
Service Areas
We service the following areas:
Penarth, Llandough, Sully, Dinas Powys, Lavernock, Barry, Rhoose, Wenvoe and Cardiff.
Penarth Dog Training 