240+ five-star reviews

Reading the dog

Diona helped us train our two reactive dachshunds. She has a wealth of knowledge regarding dog body language and how to implement training methods correctly to help your dog learn new behaviour. No one has been able to effectively explain dog body language and what it meant to us better than Diona. She has been life changing for us after our struggle with training our dogs for over a year using other trainers and methods.

Ai W.

Understanding over commands

Working with Diona has been a game changer. She's helped us truly understand our reactive German Shepherd, her triggers, body language, and what she needs to feel safe and succeed. This deeper understanding has made walks so much smoother and has improved our overall relationship with our GSD.

Tim D.

Behaviour without commands

My 22 month old stubborn Samoyed is now a dream to deal with. No longer reactive to other dogs and people, no longer pulls on the lead, no more incessant barking, no more pacing. I now have a settled, calm and non reactive Samoyed who responds to my body language before a command is uttered.

Foodie G.

Bonding over obedience

Diona's care and understanding of dog behaviour took us from being pulled down the road, with Peanut crying and shrieking at any dog he saw, to walking beside us and choosing us over other dogs. She helped us with bonding and trust, transforming our relationship.

Lily C.

The household, not just the dog

Diona was my third trainer I resorted to for my over reactive dog. Diona quickly realised there was much more going on at home than I had truthfully opened up about. Now I have a dog that is absolutely a pleasure to have inside the home. Walks have become more fun and less stressful, reactivity has diminished.

Ozlem G.

The why behind the method

Her patience, deep knowledge, and structured approach made all the difference in training our puppy, Bagel. Diona explained everything in detail, ensuring we understood not just the how but also the why behind dog training. Her guidance gave us the confidence to understand our puppy's needs.

Shelton L.

A dog whose needs are met

Diona didn't just teach us how to train our heeler/staffy pup, she taught us how to understand him, how to satisfy him, teach him, play with him and calm him, and therefore how to truly befriend him. Thanks to Diona we got our nights and sanity back, and learned how to truly bond with our pup.

Emma

Cycles and the four modes

She is like no other trainer and really helps you understand the cycle of reactivity and taps into the cycles of what we need to do to help you achieve a calm dog that focuses on you. Following her training cycles helps our two dachshunds so much. If you keep it up consistently the results will come.

H Church

The innate desire to be good

I liked that the approach is based on the dog's desire to be good, and on educating the owners to provide an environment in which the dog can be relaxed and happy. Our training program was immediately effective, especially improving walks with our pulling and reactive dog. It has changed our world.

Helen

Knowing your dog deeply

We had been through a few different trainers and specialists before we met Diona. We've always loved our dog but now we know our dog on a much deeper level. Through Diona's program we've learnt to have more fun and enjoy our dog as well as develop a deeper understanding of her behaviour and triggers. Life changing.

Lucy R.

A different framework

I always thought barking, stealing food and pulling on lead was part of the deal living with dogs. Diona transformed my understanding about dogs and taught me how Piper and I can both live peacefully and enjoyably. It honestly makes life so much easier when you have a calm, relaxed and fulfilled furry friend.

Peony C.

Reading body language

Diona really took the time to understand Koko and me, tailoring the training to fit our needs. I've learned so much about reading Koko's body language. She's become much more relaxed outdoors, and we've built a stronger bond through the process.

Antoinette B.

After our training with Diona, we have a completely changed dog. We can finally walk Mishka around other dogs without issue. Walking used to be so stressful and now it's a thing we look forward. Highly recommend Diona!

Russell A.

I cannot recommend Diona the Trainer highly enough. Our dogs recall and behaviour has improved so much in just a short amount of time. Diona's training sessions were always clear and easy to put into practice. Thank you Diona

Sinead T.

Diona was incredible at helping us to reduce the anxiety of our dog. In such a short period of time we can now talking with other dog walkers on the street without concern. I highly recommend her if you are looking for a dog trainer.

Kieran N.

I found Diona hugely helpful with my anxious cavoodle, Mabel. Diona's breadth of knowledge about dogs and canine behaviour was super-impressive, and she communicated Mabel's needs to me in friendly and easy to digest terms. I highly recommend Diona. Thanks to her, we're well on the way to conquering Mabel's anxiety.

Elizabeth C.

Diona magically change Figgy to a more connected dog by training us how to read him. I’m so happy to have more than a dog but a family member. The simple principle led teaching really unlocks a lot of potential that Figgy possess. I’m excited for our future with Figgy. Thanks, Diona!

Sudung M.

Diona has been an incredible guide and teacher over the past few months. Our beautiful boy Rocky is a lot calmer, more fulfilled and we are able to take him to busier places with much less reactivity. It's obviously an ongoing journey, but we feel much better equipped to continue to progress Rocky's training now we better understand his body language and his needs.

Katie C.

We recently completed our four-week program with Diona and couldn’t recommend her highly enough. We were struggling with our dog’s reactivity to point where walks and visitors to our house had become very stressful. Her insights into dog behaviour, clear communication, step-by-step instructions and support have been a game changer, resulting in a much calmer dog and giving us the tools and confidence to manage new challenges as they arise. We would highly recommend Diona.

Nicole M.

Diona has been instrumental in helping us learn to better navigate the temperament and body language of our husky. While most shy away from a complicated breed like ours, Diona jumped at the opportunity and our precious pup (and her proud pet parents) have benefitted greatly from the experience. Would recommend her to anyone seeking to improve their own dog handling skills and create a game plan for setting their pet up for success long term.

Joseph M.

Finding Diona was the best thing that happened to us and our 2 sausage dogs. We were struggling with reactivity for quite some time and after just one session we saw a huge improvement in their behaviour. Our dogs are now much calmer and we can take them almost anywhere. Her training methods are effective and target the root cause of unwanted behaviour. If you're looking to engage a dog trainer who truly understands dogs look no further - we cannot recommend Diona highly enough.

Anna K.

We couldn’t be happier with the training we are receiving from Diona. From the very first online session, she was patient, knowledgeable and genuinely invested in helping us and our puppy succeed. Her 9 week program was extremely structured, practical and easy to follow, with clear homework to reinforce learning. Each week, Our puppy has improved dramatically and has settled well into our home. The positive and consistent approach made such a difference, not just in our puppy’s behaviour, but in our confidence as owners. What really stood out was how she explained the “why” behind everything, which helped us stay consistent at home. Highly recommend to anyone wanting a calm, effective and supportive trainer.

Anna A.

I hadn't walked my Kelpie for 12 months. She had been injured and was in pain and become reactive. I was miserable and walking her was traumatic. In addition to Diona's program she suggested options for pain and rehabilitation - life changing. After a month we are happily walking in the park. Crossing paths with other dogs no longer fills me with dread. This week my family took Kip to a cafe and had lunch - other dogs were nearby and it was stress free. Diona gave us activities each week that were easy to build into our daily routine. Most of all our Kelpie is behaving differently and we are enjoying life with her again. I have used other trainers before but Diona's methods actually work and are sustainable.

Lauren C.

I can't recommend Diona highly enough. I came into the training program feeling doubt that anything in our situation could really change. Walking out dog has become stressful and a less than enjoyable event. I would deliberately avoid times when I knew people and other dogs were around. What Diona helped us achieve was something I didn't think possible. The biggest change wasn't just in my dog, but in me. She helped me to understand how my own approach, reactions and energy were influencing things. As I adjusted my own behaviour, I saw a shift in my dog's, and was better able to read his signs. It has completely changed the relationship I have with him, and it has made me feel more confident. Diona was with us every step of the way. She was patient and incredibly supportive. Highly recommended!!

Teresa V.

Kai is an American staffy who I was told was extremely anxious. He needed 10 tablets over 12 hours prior to a vet visit. After 3 different vets and a behavioural specialist he was prescribed 2 tablets per day and recommended increased to 4 and 1 before walking. After having dogs for 30 years and being left unimpressed, I was referred to Diona through another client. After 15 minutes into our first session there was a massive difference, After 3 sessions he is on no tablets at all, and is able to come to the park, shops, and even Bunnings. Diona teaches that not all dogs are the same, and a bond and control is more beneficial than being their boss. It isn't a 5 minute fix, it takes time and effort. But 100% worth it. Kai is a lot happier and relaxed now. DEFINITELY NOT ANXIOUS. After being sceptical at the start, my only regret is that I didn't see Diona sooner..! I can't thank or recommend Diona enough.

Kristen P.

Diona was fantastic! she helped us better understand our dog and get him to a place where walks are not a stressful experience for both him and us.

Chloe A.

Just finished Diona’s puppy training program and it was super helpful, easy to follow lessons with weekly tasks and great advice to introducing a new puppy into our family with less chaos!

Sandra A.

Amazing virtual puppy training program! Our puppy responded perfectly to the training, and Diona’s quick, informed, and generally super professional responses to any question (no matter how banal, seemingly silly, or repeated) were a godsend. Highly recommended.

Wayne V.

Diona was fantastic at helping me with my 4year old mini dashie who constantly stopped, sniffed and refused to walk. Within one day she had improved so much. Now we can enjoy our walks together. I would highly recommend Diona,she is amazing.

Gaye K.

Working with Diona has been an incredible experience. Been to many trainers prior and no one was able to help me more than Diona. She tailors the experience to the owners needs and wants with their dog and their dogs. Amazing trainer, couldn’t recommend her more.

Arya K.

Diona helped our dog Pinot so much! Has changed our life and pinots! As a very friendly dog was so easy to over look so many behaviour issues with our little pup! But Diona has taught us some amazing techniques that were easy to adopt and super effective. Very experienced and effective rainy couldn’t recommend more highly!

Simon W.

We’re so happy with the training our dog Winnie received! Diona has been absolutely amazing—professional, patient, and incredibly effective. We’ve seen a huge improvement in Winnie’s behavior, and it’s clear she feels more confident and well-adjusted. Both my partner and I are really pleased with the results. Highly recommend Diona to anyone looking for a great dog trainer!

Endru Y.

Client testimony from Lil Beefy himself: "I used to be the biggest bully to my nanny G when they were on crutches. Thanks to Diona, I learned to regulate and make better choices. Every day, I strive to be a good boy. My nannies reward me with really fun play sessions. I've never been more fulfilled in my life."

Brianna H.

Diona doesn’t just train your dog, she also teaches you. With my explosive sausage we’ve made huge progress: there are still challenging days, but I feel much calmer knowing I can now manage them. Her guidance has helped me read my dog better and truly commit to the process. The reward of seeing the changes has been amazing. I am deeply grateful for everything.

Tania A.

I’m so grateful for all the help with our Yoshi! Our sessions have made such a noticeable difference in his confidence, and your guidance has been easy to follow and incredibly supportive. We’ve already had a few exposure outings, and I can see him improving each time. Thank you Diona for helping us build better habits and communicate more clearly with him. Highly recommend trainer!

Stephanie L.

Can’t recommend Diona highly enough. Her skills and guidance have helped our dog Winnie in leaps and bounds. A previously reactive dog to guests in the house and dogs outside, she is now able to work through her fears. It will always be a work in progress but I feel confident with the techniques Diona has taught us to keep up the work and consistently improve

Chloe L.

Diona has been fantastic in helping us train our rambunctious border terrier who loves the world and other dogs! It does require a lot of work and commitment from everyone in the household to make sure everyone understand the rules of the pack - but if you put in the effort and trust the process and you will have a new and stronger relationship with your dog.

Sophie M.

I can't thank Diona enough for the incredible work she did with my Dachshund, Milo! We were unable to walk Milo without treats and having anxiety that he is going to lunge at every dog that walks past. Diona knew exactly how to approach the training and help us understand Milos body language/behaviour. I highly recommend Diona to anyone looking to build a deeper connection with their dog.

Liam C.

having had the privilege to experience the knowledge and guidance from Diona’s Puppy Blue Print, I’m so happy our new cavoodle Willow got off to a great start with some basic training when she arrived in our home. We were provided foundations to raise a calm and very clever puppy. Willow is an absolute treasure and brings so much joy to our family. Thank you Diona, I recommend you to anyone and everyone.

Kimberley D.

We had a 6 week old baby and our 5 year old dachshund was displaying some attention seeking behaviours. It was also a nightmare having guests over. Diona absolutely turned this around and we now have a calm, happy and fulfilled sausage dog! She taught us how to respond to his needs and we can now head out on stress-free walks and spend time relaxing at home. We’re so thankful for Diona’s time & work.

Hannah

Diona has been absolutely wonderful! She’s patient, supportive, and explains everything in such a clear, practical way. We’ve learnt so much in just a few weeks and feel much more confident with our puppy’s training. She genuinely cares about both dogs and their families, and it shows in everything she does. Our puppy Stormi absolutely adores her and sees her as part of the pack! 🥰 Diona truly goes above and beyond — we couldn’t recommend her more highly.

Nicole A.

Since we started working with Diona around 6 weeks ago, we have seen tremendous improvements with our 1 year old, Robbie. He is now a pleasure to walk and it is not a stressful experience to take him out and about! I am so surprised at what we have been able to achieve, especially in such a short time frame. With continued practice of the skills Diona has taught us we can’t wait to see what else we can achieve with Robbie.

Riley K.

I can't thank Diona and her Puppy Blueprint enough. Having never owned a dog before her training methodology stood out to me straight away as something i wanted to strive towards. She was SO very patient with all my questions and was always more then happy to provide extra explanation and/or examples as i needed it. As a result of her training program i have become so much more confident in my ability and have a fulfilled, relaxed (most of the time haha) puppy.

Christie B.

Thanks Diona!! I’m so much more comfortable walking my dogs outside now and not have to worry about triggers. My dogs are so much calmer and happier since training with you.

Linda F.

Diona is absolutely the best trainer ever ! We are so happy with the results we got and her personalised approach is just incredible! She is so patient and her work with dogs and education she provides to us was just amazing!

Milica B.

Diona's training was life changing! We now have a happy dog who we enjoy walking and can confidently leave at home. It was clear from our first meeting the Diona knew what she was doing and we trusted her process. I highly recommend her!

Eliza M.

No need to look anywhere else, you’ve found an awesome trainer in Diona. Diona’s 4 week program has helped put our Dachshund Willow onto a much calmer and confident path moving forward. She has provided us with all the tools for continued success. Thanks Diona!!

Kellie W.

Life changing. Walks became so stressful and unenjoyable. Our dogs were aggressive and fearful and Diona really helped us understand their emotions and behaviour and work through their different challenges. The change was almost immediate. We feel so confident we are on the right path. Thank You!!!!!

Kylie I.

We contacted Diona to work on leash walking and overall general confidence for myself in dog ownership and couldn’t be happier. Diona was so helpful and her techniques are great, highly recommend! Am now feeling more confident in my handling and Squid loved her, and walks so well now..! Thanks again.

Annie H.

Best trainer ever! Cannot recommend her enough! Diona 4 session training program is a must! It is a complete program designed to teach you how to recognise, understand and train your dog behaviour. She has set us up with the knowledge to help our scared dog deal with any potential situation. Thank you Diona!!!

Jacquie C.

Wish we had known of Diona and her techniques sooner; our relationship with our dog is less stressful and more enjoyable. She gave us the tools to work with our dog who is calmer and more content. Diona was super responsive to our questions, giving feedback and guidance throughout our program. Thank you Diona 🙏

Gen M.

Diona is an absolutely INCREDIBLE dog/people trainer. She is by far the best investment we’ve made in securing the happiness and fulfilment of our little dachshund Hulk, and has instilled so much confidence in all of us. We would recommend her services ten times over and will definitely be in contact when we decide to grow our family with another set of paws!

Georgia I.

We had Diona The Trainer come to advise us on training our 5 month old puppy who is so rambunctious. She gave us some tips and homework which helped to settle him. Then also contacted us to see how we were going. Diona really knows what she is talking about. I would recommend her to anyone who needs help with their dog. So thank you for your assistance.

Toni

Diona is the "go to" for dog training...our work with her has transformed the relationship between my kelpies and I.

Andy B.

Diona was fabulous! Highly recommend. Our dogs are 4 and 10 years old and Diona showed me they were not too old to learn better ways! Thanks Diona

Joanne T.

Diona knows dogs. She knows responsible dog training and ownership and teaches gold standard training which keeps dogs, owners and the community safe. So appreciate such a responsible, respectful approach.

Victoria G.

Still cannot believe how far Milo has come in just 6 sessions. I never thought I'd be able to have my 9 month old puppy be such a calm and satisfied dog.

Alexander G.

Diona is so knowledgeable and experienced! She instantly recognized my dog’s challenges and gave us really helpful tips! She’s taught us how to better cater to his needs which we’re so grateful for.

Sonia L.

Diona is the ultimate dog whisperer! My 18 month old sassy little Westie doesn’t pull, lunge or react to other dogs anymore. Highly recommend Diona for consultation and training for any dog. She is great at training dog owners too 😀👏✔️

Karen M.

Diona has lovely manner and an amazing understanding of dogs, their habits and how to educate you and your best friend. A few sessions with her and you will be well in your way to eliminating that bad habit or introducing good ones.

Troy M.

Diona trained me to recognise and respond to Alfie’s cues, and as a result we’ve been able to enjoy our walks sooo much more. His recall is also absolutely fantastic, I have absolute confidence that he’ll rocket back to me in any situation! Thanks Diona!

Louise T.

Diona is currently working with one of my puppies and I couldn't recommend her more! Her training methods align with my curriculum which makes a smooth transition for training a puppy. I will definitely pass on your details to my new puppy owners. Cavoodled By Enza x

Enza G.

Diona knows everything about dog training! She is brilliant to work with and we would give her 6 stars if we could!

David T.

Diona was amazing. Our cavoodle Bambi is a much more settled and better behaved dog. Diona included the whole family in the training which really helped. Thanks Diona.

Dan H.

Highly recommend! Diona is wonderful trainer of dogs and people. She has such an amazing understanding of dog behaviour, is a wonderful teacher and really helps you understand how a dogs brain works!

Jasmine S.

Diona was amazing for our spoodle puppy Chester made such a brilliant dynamic change to our family! We have a calmer dog that we know how to handle better! Has made a big difference and really improved things for our family! Definitely recommend

Eva P.

Diona is an amazing dog trainer. She worked with me for a year assisting with training my therapy dog. She is patient and very knowledgeable. Always available to answer any/all questions. I highly recommend Diona as a very competent and reliable dog trainer.

Mishy B.

My cats could not tolerate being around dogs and will lunge at them. Diona was really efficient in correcting this behavior in one meeting and was clear in her communication throughout the training process.

Qiao Y.

Diona is “the dog whisperer “ , I never thought we could enjoy walking our pooch until she made it all look easy. Would highly recommend and she is worth every cent. Thanks again Diona Carl & Nakisa

Carl R.

I can’t recommend and thank Diona enough for her guidance and training with our miniature dachshund Winnie. The techniques Diona gave us resulted in a instant change in Winnie’s barking and walking. It’s actually enjoyable now to take Winnie out for a walk! Thank you again Diona!

Eliza H.

Diona has a great way of explaining things and makes it quite relatable by referring to real life situations. I would definitely recommend her!

Julie T.

The Human Coaching Course with Diona was excellent! She had practical solutions to any issues we had with our pup. Diona is really personable, professional and fun to work with. Highly recommend!

Ghariza S.

No more pulling!! Diona is so professional and knowledgeable. She can teach you how to stop your dogs pulling the leash in the shortest time.

Jiayu Z.