all things canine,
...and so much more!
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all things canine,
...and so much more!
About Lez Graham, MA
Lez Graham's professional journey with dogs began in the early 90's, and after many years of professional tutelage, culminated in the establishment of Trained For Life in January 2007 when she returned to the UK from New Zealand.
Recognised as a distinguished speaker, trainer, award-winning author and dog behaviour specialist, Lez holds a Master’s Degree (professional practice) in Canine Behaviour & Psychology.
She stands as a distinguished Fellow of the Canine and Feline Behaviour Association, having received a prestigious invitation as the first lady Fellow and in recognition of her contribution to the Canine Profession, and proudly holds the title of Master Professional Dog Training Instructor with the Guild of Dog Trainers.
An executive and specialist dog handler with the Dog Safety Education Executive (DogSEE), which Lez co-founded in 2011, she has been instrumental in training high-achieving dog trainers and canine behaviourists since 2009.
Her primary success lies as a successful Canine Behaviour Practitioner in addition to her pioneering work in the Gundog community. A true pioneer in her field, Lez made history as the first lady Gundog trainer to contribute to a national shooting magazine, yet again showcasing her unwavering commitment to breaking barriers.
With over 25 years of experience working with dogs of all breeds, Lez has an affinity with the black German Shepherd, the Dutch Herder, and the long haired Chihuahua as well as the Gundog breeds that share her home.
Since her return to the UK in 2007, she has specialised in addressing aggressive behaviour, working with owners to help them transform their dogs into well mannered and safe members of society.
Beyond her hands-on work, Lez is a prolific author, always engrossed in a new book or two! She gracefully divides her time between her passions of writing, tutoring and training dogs as well as continuing her canine research studies.
Nestled in beautiful Lanarkshire, Lez shares her home with her husband and her gorgeous Gundogs.
Latest Blogs
Habit Stacking
first published 21 September 2024
I’ve always recommended that an easy way to incorporate a bit of training in a busy day is to do a little while you’re waiting for the kettle to boil… more...
Say hello and wave goodbye
first published 30 August 2024
While it might be a great title for a song, when it comes to dogs, a calm silent interaction works best... more...
Latest Podcasts
Season 4, Episode 14 - Spit or Swallow
aired 11 October 2024
The end of season 4. After they set the rules for the conversation... both Lez and Ross then promptly ignored them! This episode kicks off with a kerb consultation, a wee - ridden sofa, and a coffee that would please the Bisto kids.The Scottish contingent brings up the spit or swallow conundrum and the pair discuss why you’d never eat cake during a consultation! The conversation wanders to a Staffie on a boat and being locked in London apartments and disorientated.A sensible moment of safety discussion regarding personal safety before analysing relationships between clients.The Londoner throws in some helpful advice about rehoming partners. An aggressive Cane Corso that reminds us to stay safe and follow best practices! Shutting up a Schnauzer and the difference between client views and the professional assessment and how owners adapt and cope with the behaviour of their dogs. The truth about Spaniels from a behaviourist perspective. What are the scariest dogs to work with…ooh hold on, there’s a chat about handling wolves in the middle along with a lesson about Apron’s and jaw - sucking(WTF). Wolf dogs.Wolf hybrids, making the wrong call, making the right call and always glad to be on the way home! Luckily, that’s the last of the season, so you have a break from this nonsense! Happy Halloween, Happy Christmas and the GaGD duo will be back soon with more nonsense peppered with some wonderful guests!
Runtime: 1 hr 1 min
Season 4, Episode 13 - Take Another Breath: Dog Law with Trevor Cooper
aired 27 September 2024
In this episode, we dive into the world of dog laws and legislation with Trevor Cooper from Cooper & Co solicitors. Despite the usual hiccups and a slightly chaotic introduction (thanks, Ross! 😂), the conversation quickly becomes a must-listen for any dog owner or enthusiast. Trevor Cooper, the leading specialist in dog law for England and Wales, sheds light on both criminal and civil laws affecting dog owners.He shares the differences between a solicitor and a barrister and offers a compelling insight into his journey to becoming a prominent figure in this field.For those who recall, we revisit the significant impact of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991—a piece of legislation that has brought about devastation and controversy since its inception. If you're a dog owner, this episode is essential. We discuss the prevalence of relationship breakdowns and custody battles over dogs, reminding listeners to choose their partners wisely! While there are a few positives to note in the prosecution trends under the Dangerous Dogs Act, the reality remains grim—it’s largely a postcode lottery. And for the love of your canine companion, don’t rely on your dog to protect your home, vehicle, or garden. As the episode concludes, we affirm that Breed - Specific Legislation(BSL) is ineffective—something many of us already knew.The laws currently in place are outdated and unfit for purpose, and it’s clear the Dangerous Dogs Act has been a failure from the start.We need a fresh approach, and it’s time for all dog professionals to unite. We also tackle some listener questions and leave you with a crucial reminder: make sure you have adequate third - party liability insurance.And if you don’t have a dog yet—think twice before getting one!
Runtime: 57 mins