Accredited Dog Behaviourist & Certified Force-Free Dog Training Practitioner
Help Your Dog Feel Safe, Confident, and Happy
Expert, science-based behaviour modification and training for dog behaviour challenges in Auckland.
From puppy development to complex reactivity and aggression cases.
Force-free methods that create lasting change.
ABOUT Emily Dustan
Kia ora, I’m Emily Dustan, an Accredited Animal Behaviour Consultant and Certified Force-Free Dog Training Professional with over 21 years of experience working with families and their dogs in Auckland.
I specialise in resolving complex behavioral challenges including reactivity, aggression, separation distress, and fear-based behaviours. I also work extensively with puppy and adolecent development, helping you support your puppy’s social and emotional growth during critical periods.
My methods are safe, practical, empathy-based, and backed by current scientific research. I work internationally with veterinarians and partner with dog rescues throughout New Zealand to support families with their dogs.
How I Work With You
I use a structured, step-by-step approach to address dog and puppy behavioural challenges, focusing on understanding your dog’s emotional needs, not just changing their behaviour.
Whether you’re bringing home a new puppy and want to start off right, or facing ongoing challenges like reactivity, aggression, separation distress, fear, or anxiety, I work with you to create practical solutions that fit your family’s lifestyle.
Through proactive environmental management, positive reinforcement training, and addressing your dog’s emotional needs, we create lasting change, not just temporary ‘fixes’.
Your dogs favourite place!
Our purpose-built center in Onehunga has been designed with your dog’s comfort in mind. We’ve eliminated typical stressors found in many facilities – no harsh lighting, overwhelming smells, or chaotic noise.
Instead, you’ll find calm, open spaces where dogs can move freely and settle at their own pace. Separate areas for different activities mean we can tailor the environment to what your dog needs – whether that’s a quiet grooming session or an engaging training class.
What Our Dog Training Centre Offers:
– On-site parking for easy access.
– Surrounded by local cafes and shops (perfect for real-life training practice).
– Easy access from all Auckland areas.
– Maintained to veterinary-grade hygiene standards.
– Climate-controlled comfort year-round.
Dogs who initially arrived nervous often start wagging their tails as soon as they recognise our building. Many owners tell us their pets get excited when they realise where they’re going. That’s exactly what we hoped to create, a place where dogs genuinely want to be.
Our Location
364 Onehunga Mall Road, Onehunga, Auckland
How We Can Help you and your dog
Not sure where to start? Here’s our top dog behaviour and training services:
Serious or persistent behavioural concerns?
- Reactivity
- Aggression towards people and/ or dogs
- Compulsive behaviours
- Severe fear
- Separation anxiety or isolation distress
- New rescue dog
Start with a Behaviour Consultation
Need help with basic training or specific issues?
- Leash pulling
- Jumping
- Recall
- Preparing for a baby
Book Private Training Sessions
Have a puppy under 5 months?
Join our Puppy Training Classes
Looking for a gentle dog groomer?
Find our Dog Grooming Services
Looking for something new and fun to do with your dog, and to keep your dog fit and mentally engaged?
Check out Dog Fitness & Enrichment
Still not sure? seespotlearn@outlook.com and we’ll help you find the right starting point.
Dog Behaviour & Training Services
Behaviour Consultations
Helping with complex issues like anxiety, reactivity, or separation distress with tailored stratergies from our dog behaviourist.
Dog Training Support
Help your dog learn new life skills through focused training sessions, addressing their individual needs and your lifestyle.
Puppy Training Classes
Set your puppy up for success from the start with specialist-led puppy classes focused on behaviour and emotional development.
Dog Grooming
Our qualified groomers pamper your dog using kind, reward-based methods for all dogs, all breeds, and all ages.
Dog Fitness Programs
We provide individual canine fitness programs to improve your dog’s physical fitness and mental health by conditioning their body and mind through fun and strategic exercises.
Books by Emily Dustan
Training Humans, Teaching Dogs
Helping you understand your dog better.
A practical guide for new dog owners covering puppy development, training basics, and understanding how dogs learn – using modern, force-free methods.
Perfect for anyone starting with a new puppy, welcoming a rescue, or wanting to move away from outdated training approaches.
A Friend Named Dog
A children’s book that teaches kids how to read canine body language and interact safely with dogs.
Told from a dog’s perspective, this engaging story helps young readers understand when dogs need space, how to greet dogs respectfully, and why dogs communicate the way they do. Perfect for families with young children.
Blogs & News

When to Spay or Neuter Your Dog?
If you’re researching the best time to spay or neuter your puppy, you’ve probably noticed something frustrating, the advice is all over the place. Your

Beyond the Brush: Why Modern Dog Grooming Should Focus on Emotional Well-being
Discover why modern dog grooming focuses on emotional well-being, not just appearance. Learn what to look for in a fear-free groomer and get practical tips to prepare your anxious dog at home. Includes a free downloadable checklist!

Debunking common myths about prong collars and e-collars
If this post reaches just one person considering electronic or prong collars for their dog, it’s truly worth it. PLEASE be wary of trainers who
Frequently Asked Questions
I’m an Accredited Animal Behaviour Consultant (CanineABCSA0332020) and Certified Force-Free Dog Training Practitioner with the Animal Behaviour Consultants of Southern Africa, with over 21 years of hands-on experience.
My qualifications include:
- Accredited Animal Behaviour Consultant with ABC of SA®™
- Diploma in Canine Aggression (Dip-CA)
- Accredited Canine Professional Diploma
- Certified Health and Wellness Expert
- Accredited Canine Pharmacology Advanced Certificate
- Certified Canine Exercise Consulant
- Certified Behaviour Consultant and Trainer with the International Institute of Canine Ethics
I’m also a Professional Dog Trainer and active member of:
- Pet Professional Guild
- The National Institute of Canine Ethics (Full Member)
- Association of Professional Dog Trainers New Zealand (Full Member)
I maintain these qualifications through ongoing academic study and work internationally with veterinarians and dog rescues to stay current with the latest research and best practices.
I use force-free, positive reinforcement methods based on current scientific research. No shock collars, prong collars, intimidation, or punishment. I focus on understanding your dog’s emotional needs and teaching them what TO do, rather than punishing what not to do.
Yes, I specialise in complex behaviour challenges including reactivity and aggression. My structured approach focuses on understanding the underlying emotions and triggers, then creating a step-by-step plan for lasting change.
Every dog is different, but most families see initial improvements within 2-4 weeks. Complex issues may take 3-6 months of consistent work. I provide ongoing support throughout your dog’s journey.
Yes! I run puppy classes focusing on positive exposure during the socialisation period, confidence building, and early learning. These are especially important during critical developmental periods and help prevent future behaviour issues.
Absolutely. I have extensive experience helping families with newly adopted dogs, including those with unknown histories or special needs. Many rescues refer families to me for ongoing support.
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Yes, separation and isolation distress are specialties of mine. I use gradual desensitisation techniques, environmental management, and counter-conditioning to help build your dog’s confidence and independence with the goal of them being comfortable when left alone. This is a complex issue that requires patience and a carefully structured approach, but with consistent work, most dogs can learn to feel secure during alone time.
Yes, I work with families locally in Auckland and internationally via video consultations, depending on your dog’s specific needs. Many behavior modification plans can be successfully implemented remotely with proper guidance.
Serving All of Auckland
Based in Onehunga, we’re centrally located and easily accessible from all Auckland areas including:
– Central Auckland, Ellerslie, Remuera, Greenlane, Royal Oak
– Mt Roskill, Three Kings, Mt Eden, Epsom
– Papatoetoe, Otahuhu, Mangere, Manukau
– North Shore, West Auckland, East Auckland, South Auckland
364 Onehunga Mall Road, Onehunga, Auckland
✓ Convenient on-site parking
✓ Close to motorway access
✓ Easy access via public transport
Ready to Help Your Dog?
Whether you’re dealing with a behavioral challenge, looking for a dog groomer near you, wanting to do more with your dog, or want to give your puppy the best start, we’re here to help.
Call: +27 220 1867
Email: seespotlearn@outlook.com
Not sure where to start? Get in touch and we’ll help you find the right service for your dog’s needs.