I have the best job in the world!
I’ve always had a dog by my side
Hi I’m John Growing up in the country, I always had a four-legged friend by my side. And for as long as I can remember, I have had a special love for dogs – a unique connection that others rarely understand.
Today three decades on, I am humbled and proud to be recognised as Melbourne’s premium dog training and behavioural specialist. I have trained thousands of puppies, adolescent and adult dogs in Australia and internationally. And I’ve had the honour of mentoring other dog trainers for many years.
My dog training career
I am a government licensed and fully insured dog trainer with over 30 years’ dog training experience. My expertise has taken me far and wide – from Singapore and Malaysia to Papua New Guinea and Brunei.
After spending substantial time overseas, I returned to Australia in 1991 to formally establish AUSDOG.
Although I regularly focus on the everyday training needs of dogs and their families, I am also recognised as one of Australia’s most accomplished remedial behavioural specialists.
John revolutionised our lives
Gill & Owen M, South Yarra
‘It’s hard to put into words how amazing John is. He really did revolutionise our lives. And now we are very happy to have a relaxed dog that walks without barking at others.’
A holistic approach
Despite what the phrase implies, ‘dog training’ should never be just about training the dog.
Central to my philosophy is the belief that for long-term training success, you and your children must be properly educated on how to raise, care for and train your dogs. Involving you in the training process is the only way to avoid future problems and to ensure a happy, well-behaved companion for many years.
John has the magic touch
Barbara J C
‘John Harkin pretty much trained me as well as my dog Meg. He made the process fun and gave me the confidence to build a strong relationship with her. So many people have remarked on how obedient and socialised she now is! I tell all my friends about John’s magic touch every chance I get.’
It’s all about quality of life
When people ask me what I do, my answer is simple: I improve the quality of life for dogs and their owners. And with such high dog euthanasia rates across Australia, I believe my work can really make a difference.
My job allows me to change lives every day. I help puppies grow into confident, obedient dogs. I help poorly behaved dogs overcome complex challenges. And I help dog owners and their children fully enjoy and value their companion every day of its life.
I really do have the best job in the world!