Struan Dewar APGI

Although dogs have been a big part of Struan’s life since he was a child, the opportunity to work with them did not come until he was 30 years old. Having had a six-year career in professional rugby, followed by a short stint in the corporate world of accounting, Struan made the decision to shape a professional career around his passion and interest in dogs.

Since 2020, Struan has run a thriving dog walking business in the heart of Edinburgh. It is through this experience that Struan began to realise his real passion for the gundog breeds and all of the qualities they encompass – intelligent, determined & loyal. Struan believes that gundog breeds can be the most incredible family pets, if their owners feel confident in working with, and not against, their natural instincts.

This is exactly what Struan hopes to achieve through Rock Steady Dog Training. Based in Ratho, Edinburgh, Struan aims to teach others how to build and nurture their relationship with their dog and teach relevant training skills for beginners, all the way up to the advanced skills needed to work a dog on a shoot, something Struan enjoys doing with his own dog Bear. Struan is eager to show owners how they can provide the best life for their dog through satisfying their dog’s natural instincts, all the while making their home life as harmonious as possible.

Through an intensive 18-month training programme, Struan is now an accredited APGI instructor. Struan has gained extensive knowledge and expertise to allow him to help and support handlers and their dogs across a range of topics. The qualifications and experience gained on the route to becoming an APGI have given Struan a strong understanding of the psychology of dogs, how to use our dog’s natural ability and skills to make them a happier and more settled companion, and ultimately, how to build a strong and loving relationship between owner and dog.

Struan has a very relaxed and calm training manner, with a real focus on clear and effective communication. The training sessions at Rock Steady Dog Training will always be informative, practical, challenging and hopefully, fun, for both owners and dogs.