About

Dogs have always been a part of my life. From tiny mixed breed Ellen to giant-sized Great Dane Peggy, they have all found their way to my heart.

When I was a kid I dreamt of having a dog kennel and breed Scottish Deer Hounds (we had one at the time). I collected pictures and articles and put in a kind of scrapbook, to prepare for my future as a dog breeder.

But as so often happens, life evolved in a different way. I grew up and went to university (though not until I was in my thirties!) and became a biologist and high school teacher. But dogs continued to be an important part of my life.

“It’s only a dog.”

How many times have you heard that phrase?  And usually, it’s said to justify some kind of neglectful or intimidating behavior from a human.

But it’s not only a dog. It’s a feeling, caring, sensitive being.

But it’s still a dog! A different species from us, with a language and a perception of the world that is very different from ours.

Every dog deserves that we understand them and love them for what and who they are. They don’t choose to come to us, but they still consider us the most important beings in their world, their pack.

But dogs have no way of understanding the human world, it’s very confusing to them.

And this is why I decided to create Thriving Mutts. I want to help you and your fellow dog lovers all around the world understand your dogs’ needs. I also want to help you communicate with your dog in a way the dog understands. A dog has no way of learning our language, but we as humans are able to learn the universal language of dogs. Then we can truly listen to our dogs and help them navigate in our world.

Dog Listening

Force, violence or intimidation is never justified when interacting with your dog. Instead, learning how to gain your dog’s trust as leader of the pack is the key. That will allow your dog friend to be free from responsibility and stress.

But who am I to tell you anything about this? I’m a biologist, and have studied evolutionary biology, ethology and genetics, but that doesn’t really suffice, right? However, a few of years ago I stumbled upon something called Dog Listening.

Since one of my present rescue dogs, Lola, gets extremely stressed outside and is terrified of other dogs, I wanted to understand her better to be able to help her. Said and done, I had a home consultation done by a Jan Fennel Recommended Dog Listener, attended a Foundation Course myself, and in the fall of 2019 l completed the Advanced Course given by Jan Fennel herself.

The Advanced Course in Amichien® Bonding was amazing and so so inspiring. Jan Fennel has tons of experience and a solid foundation of knowledge about the canine world of behavior and communication. And she knows how to share it.

Now I have also completed the Graduate Course, and am myself a Jan Fennel Trained Dog Listener! My mission to make the world a better place one dog and its owner at a time can begin.

I used to say that if I can help just one dog and its owner to live a more happy and relaxed life my deed is done. But, I’m not saying that anymore!

I want to reach as many dog owners as possible because I deeply believe that the Dog Listening method is the ultimate answer to solving the relationship problems between dogs and humans. And in doing this, there is so much love and joy and happiness to be had, for dog and human alike.

If you’re curious and want to learn more, please check out ‘Dog Listening Online Course’ and ‘Dog Listening Consultation’ in the menu above.

As for the physical products I recommend on this site I sometimes receive a small commission, at no extra cost for you. Doing this provides me with the means to run this site. I never recommend anything I don’t believe in.