About Louise

Animal Understanding is founded and run by Louise Robinson Harris.

A lifelong love of animals inspired the creation of this business to provide expert, evidence-based training and behaviour support that places welfare and emotional wellbeing at its heart.

Qualifications and Professional Background

I am an Animal Behaviour Consultant and Trainer specialising in training and behavioural support for dogs, horses and their humans. I hold a BSc (Hons) in Zoology, and an MSc in Applied Animal Behaviour and Training (Distinction), giving me an in-depth understanding of animal welfare, learning theory and behaviour management.

I remain dedicated to ongoing professional development, attending welfare, behaviour and training lectures and courses to ensure I continue to offer the highest standard of up to date, evidence-led support.

Supporting People as Well as Animals

Alongside my work in animal behaviour, I am an experienced Secondary School Biology teacher and have held senior leadership roles. This background has strengthened my ability to communicate clearly, coach effectively and support people of all ages and experience levels in developing skills, understanding and confidence.

I particularly enjoy breaking down complex behavioural challenges into manageable, achievable steps to enable lasting progress.

My approach

Having lived with and learned from many animals over the years, I understand how challenging behavioural issues can feel — at times frustrating, isolating, overwhelming and even heartbreaking.

My aim is to offer calm, compassionate and non-judgemental guidance to help you and your animal build trust, confidence and a harmonious relationship.

My approach is science-led, kind, and effective, using only reward-based (positive reinforcement) methods that promote lasting behaviour change and positive emotional wellbeing for both animals and their people.

Based in Dorset, I offer in-person training and behaviour support locally, as well as online consultations for those living outside of this area.

I live near Corfe Castle with my husband and our Golden Retriever and Thoroughbred horse, who bring daily entertainment, and who continue to teach me the importance of patience, communication and understanding.

My Philosophy

I believe that whatever we hope to achieve with our animals – from everyday manners and socialisation to overcoming fears, changing problem behaviours or striving towards competition goals - the foundations remain the same :

prioritising welfare
understanding behaviour
considering the animal’s perspective.

When these foundations are in place, relationships can be built on trust, compassion and clear communication. From there confidence grows, partnerships strengthen and lasting change becomes possible.

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