Meet Mark.
Founder | Lead IMDT Qualified Dog & Puppy Trainer.
My Story
I grew up in the Hertfordshire countryside, surrounded by fields, woods and animals.
One of my earliest memories is walking and spending time with my grandmother’s dog, Prince, a gentle, good-natured mixed breed who showed me just how powerful the bond between a person and their dog can be.
My grandmother trained with kindness and patience, long before positive, reward-based methods were widely accepted. At a time when harsh, dominance-based techniques were common, she chose compassion… something that continues to shape my approach today.
Discovering My Passion for Dog Training
As a teenager in the 1980s, I began dog walking in my local area.
Armed with handwritten flyers and plenty of enthusiasm, I quickly built up a group of regular clients. It didn’t take long to realise that not every dog had strong foundations and that life became much easier when dogs were trained well.
So, naturally, I started helping them learn.
Even then, I saw how good training transformed both dogs and owners.
Becoming a Professional Trainer
For many years, dog training wasn’t my main career.
That changed when I welcomed my own puppy, a Working Cocker Spaniel, into my life.
I imagined long walks, café visits and relaxed companionship.
The reality?
Sleepless nights. Barking. Biting. Chaos.
Like many new owners, I felt overwhelmed and unsure where to turn.
When I began searching for help, I was shocked to discover that in the UK, anyone can call themselves a dog trainer with no formal qualifications required.
That’s when I decided to do things properly.
I committed to professional education, evidence-based methods, and structured learning. My goal became simple:
To give families clear, reliable support without confusion, guilt or outdated techniques.
Why I Focus on In-Home Training
Most behaviour challenges happen at home.
Not in a hall
Not in a class
Not on a training field
They happen in kitchens, living rooms, gardens and on everyday walks.
That’s why I specialise in in-home, one-to-one training.
By working in your real environment, I can help you:
Build practical routines
Prevent problem behaviours
Improve communication
Create lasting habits
This approach leads to faster progress and more reliable results.
Professional Training & Qualifications
I believe great dog training starts with great education.
Mannering Barton Dog Training was founded on over 30 years of experience with dogs and a commitment to professional standards, ongoing education and ethical training practices.
Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT)
I am an IMDT Qualified Dog and Puppy Trainer, having completed the IMDT professional training pathway including:
• Career as a Dog Trainer Course
• Practical Instructor Course
• Easy Peasy Puppy Instructor Programme and qualification
This training focuses on modern, reward-based methods and effective coaching of owners as well as dogs.
National Dog Training Academy (NDTA)
Completed the Dog Trainer Certificate Programme, covering both practical and theoretical training in modern, science-based dog training methods under founder Sandra Lawton.
K9 First Aid
Training in canine emergency care and safety when working with dogs and puppies.
Fully Insured & DBS Checked
For your peace of mind, I hold a current DBS check, public liability insurance and professional indemnity insurance.
All training follows recognised professional codes of conduct and modern ethical standards.
My Training Philosophy
I believe in:
✔ Kind, modern, science-based methods
✔ Clear communication
✔ Ethical practice
✔ Long-term results
✔ Supporting owners, not judging them
There are no shortcuts.
Just calm, logical training that works.
Areas I Serve
I provide private puppy and dog training across:
Richmond • Teddington • Kew • Kingston • Twickenham • Esher • Oxshott • Surbiton • Walton-on-Thames
I also work with clients in Hertfordshire and Berkhamsted.
If you’re unsure whether I cover your area, please get in touch and of course I cover UK wide online.
Begin Your Dog or Puppy Training Journey
Choose the personalised support that’s right for you and your dog.
Private Dog Training
(One-to-One)
Bespoke behaviour and obedience training for family dogs
In-home or virtual sessions tailored to your lifestyle, routines and goals.
✔ Lead pulling
✔ Recall
✔ Jumping up
✔ Calm behaviour
✔ Everyday manners
Private Puppy Training
(One-to-One)
Personalised puppy training for confident, well-behaved dogs
In-home or virtual sessions tailored to your lifestyle, routines and goals.
✔ Toilet training
✔ Biting and chewing
✔ Sleeping routines
✔ Socialisation
✔ Basic cues