Back in 2011, I stood in my first puppy class armed with a handful of treats, a heart full of enthusiasm, and the distinct feeling that I was learning just as much as the dogs. It didn’t take long before I realised this wasn’t just a passing interest—it was the beginning of a lifelong commitment to understanding behaviour, fostering resilience, and advocating for humane, evidence-based training.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with countless dogs, each with their own quirks, joys, and challenges. From the nervy pup who barked at leaves to the adolescent hooligan discovering the thrill of selective hearing, every experience added nuance to my understanding of what it means to truly communicate across species. But it wasn’t just about teaching sit and stay—it was about helping guardians see the dog in front of them, and giving that dog the skills to thrive in our unpredictable world.
As I dug deeper into the science of behaviour, enriched my knowledge through qualifications—including two Advanced Diplomas in Applied Animal Behaviour—and collaborated with brilliant trainers and vets, I noticed patterns. There was a gap between the science we knew and what was reaching pet guardians in the real world. That gap often showed up as frustration, anxiety, or even despair—on both ends of the leash.
So I did what I always do when I’m faced with complexity: I structured it.
That’s how the P.I.E. Principle was born—Predictability, Individuality, and Empowerment. Three pillars that, together, support puppies in building resilience and confidence in a human-dominated world. It’s a framework designed not just for trainers, but for everyday humans who love their dogs and want to do right by them.
Writing Raising Resilient Puppies felt like the natural next step. It’s part how-to, part manifesto, part love letter to the dogs who’ve taught me to listen better, slow down, and celebrate progress over perfection. My hope is that it becomes a trusted guide for guardians, a conversation starter for professionals, and a small ripple in the wider shift towards ethical, thoughtful training.
Because when we raise resilient puppies, we’re not just shaping behaviour—we’re shaping futures.
Raising Resilient Puppies is available through Amazon for Kindle users or directly through Celia. See Canine Courses for more details.
