Blue Dog

At Blue Dog, our core philosophy revolves around promoting "happy puppy and dog training."  

We are dedicated to assisting dog owners in addressing their everyday puppy and dog challenges using evidence-based, force-free training techniques coupled with enriching activities that provide suitable and satisfying mental stimulation.

Our journey began in 2015 when I, Karen Bunston, founded Blue Dog.  I am a qualified IMDT trainer, a scentwork trainer and accredited behavior advisor.  In addition, I have undertaken training as an SA Pro Dog Trainer, specializing in helping dogs with separation anxiety.

Over the years, I have completed various training and educational courses with some of the most esteemed organizations in the industry.

My ultimate goal has always been to simplify and make puppy and dog training both effective and enjoyable for both humans and their four-legged companions. 

 At Blue Dog we firmly believe that a happy, well-trained dog results from a positive and nurturing training approach.


Karen has been a professional dog trainer since 2015 and is qualified and externally assessed.  She has helped many hundreds  of pet dog owners successfully train their dogs using positive reinforcement, force free and fun methods.  Karen is a full member of the IMDT and PPGBI is a SA Pro trained Separation Anxiety trainer.   

 Karen completed a 12 month mentorship in 2016 with Steve Mann the world renowned dog trainer, TV regular and Chairman (and founder) of the IMDT and has studied with some of the leading industry organisations.

Our Blue Dogs

Blue Dog was named after my Kerry Blue Terriers Bo and Missy, and it's a family business with hubby Phil helping out too!

A black dog with a red collar Bo the eldest Blue Dog

Bo was our eldest "blue dog" he was be a bit of a couch potato but loved a moochy walk and fetching his toys for us to play with him.  He loved his "stuff"...especially his blankie and his cuddly pink pig.  We miss him every day!

A black dog with a purple collar Missy the youngest Blue Dog

Sadly we lost our little Missy a couple of years ago.  She was 8 when she left us but was still our little pup who never grew up - the most loving and kissy girl in the world and we still miss her very much.

Qualifications, Training and Awards

Karen holds a BA (Hons), a PG Cert and has studied advanced level canine behaviour and biology with some of the leading canine training providers.  She has completed Scent Instructor training with the UK College of Scent Dogs and is a trained to Level 4 Scentwork UK trainer and is a Separation Anxiety trainer who has studied with Julie Naismith, one of the world's leading SA trainers.   As an Assessed and Qualified Member of The Institute of Modern Dog Trainers, she is proud to display the UK Dog Behaviour and Training Charter symbol.

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  • Member of the IMDT
  • British College of Canine Studies
  • Member of the PPGBI
  • Brand Ambassador for Butternut Box
  • Top 3 dog trainer
  • Supporter of Yellow Dog UK
  • Bark Certificate of Excellence
  • Trained instructor
  • Trained instructor

 We have been the recipient of a number of awards including the Corporate Live Wire North Dog Trainer of the Year 2020 and 2023 and the Lux Magazine Best Dog Training Provider 2018- North East England.

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