About
Hi, I'm Elena — and dogs have always been my language.
I grew up around dogs and never quite grew out of it. What started as helping friends with reactive rescues became, over eight years, a full-time calling: helping families and their dogs find their footing together.
I've worked with everything from anxious puppies to dogs who'd spent years rehearsing the wrong habits. The thread through all of it is the same — every dog is doing the best they can with the information they have. My job is to give them better information, kindly.
First & Foremost is a one-person practice on purpose. You work with me, your dog works with me, and the plan is built around your actual life — not a template.
What I stand for
Principles that shape every session
Kindness, always
No fear, no pressure, no intimidation. Behaviour shaped through reward and clear communication — backed by modern, evidence-based methods.
At your dog's pace
I read stress signals and adjust. Sessions end on a win, never on frustration. Progress that lasts is built slowly and kindly.
You learn too
The biggest gains happen between sessions. I coach you as much as your dog, so the good habits stick at home.
The journey
A practice built one dog at a time
2017
Started volunteering with rescues
Worked with reactive and anxious dogs in kennel settings, learning to read stress and build trust from zero.
2019
Certified & began private clients
Completed formal relationship-based training certification and took on my first 1:1 clients across the local area.
2021
Launched group club training
Started small, structured group classes focused on real-world manners rather than ring obedience.
Today
First & Foremost
A full practice spanning 1:1s, home visits, day training, pet sitting and wedding chaperone work.
Let's meet your dog.
Every great training journey starts with a conversation. Book a free intro call.