About
About Joe – Founder of Canine Connections Teesside
Hi, I’m Joe — Dog Behaviourist, Trainer, and Lifelong Rescue Dog Advocate
I’ve always had a deep connection with dogs for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I was surrounded by dogs — owning them, helping them, and becoming completely obsessed with understanding how they think and feel. This passion naturally led me toward helping dogs in need, and throughout the years I’ve rescued eight dogs, each with their own history, personality, and challenges.
These dogs shaped who I am as a trainer. They taught me patience, empathy, resilience, and the importance of truly understanding the “why” behind a dog’s behaviour. Every rescue dog I welcomed into my home brought new lessons and new insights. Through trial and error with my own dogs and seeing real results, I quickly realised two things:
- There is a huge amount of misinformation available to owners.
- Far too many people are struggling in silence with behaviours they don’t know how to manage.
This became the spark that pushed me to develop the training methods I now use today — approaches built from lived experience, true connection, and genuine compassion.
My Story: The Dog Who Changed Everything — Rio
Of all the dogs who have shaped my journey, one stands out above the rest: Rio.
Rio came into my life just after his first birthday. He quickly became my sidekick — wherever I went, he went. But it wasn’t long before I discovered some serious behavioural challenges that were affecting both of our lives.
Rio struggled with:
- Extreme separation anxiety
- Zero impulse control
- Destructive behaviour
- Indoor toileting
- Unpleasant, stressful walks
As time went on, things only got worse — and that’s when I realised that something had to change.
I spent hours researching, speaking with professionals, and studying behaviour until I finally had a plan in place. What followed was a total lifestyle shift for both of us. It was hard work, and there were moments where it felt overwhelming, but little by little, everything changed.
Today, Rio is a calm, loving, balanced dog — the perfect example of what’s possible with the right guidance. He even works alongside me, supporting other dogs on their journey. When I say I understand how tough it is… I truly do. But I also know how unbelievably rewarding the transformation can be.
If me and Rio can do it — anyone can.
Rio is the reason I care so deeply about helping dogs and their owners. His journey didn’t just change him — it changed me.
Why I Care So Deeply About Helping Dogs & Their Owners
My work isn’t just about training dogs — it’s about supporting people too.
I’ve seen how overwhelming behavioural struggles can be. How they can take over your daily life, cause stress at home, limit where you can go, and make you feel isolated. That’s why I’m not just here to give professional support, structure, and guidance — I’m here to be someone you can talk to.
With the right help, any transformation is possible.
No owner should ever feel alone, hopeless, or forced to choose between re-homing and “running out of options.”
At Canine Connections Teesside, every client gets:
- Personalised, positive, science-based training
- Emotional support whenever needed
- Honest guidance without judgement
- Someone who truly understands what you’re going through
I’m just as passionate about helping owners as I am about helping dogs — because real change happens when both ends of the lead feel supported.
No matter what you’re struggling with, there is a way forward. And I’m here to walk that journey with you.