Back To Basics is a family-run business, established in April 2012. With over 40 years of combined experience, we've helped thousands of happy dogs and their owners build a stronger bond through fun, tailored training.
Established 2012
We have a vast amount of knowledge and experience with all breeds of dogs, especially in the North East, having dealt with not only police dogs but 1,000s of other dogs since we started in 2012. We don't just help train dogs, we help train the owners too. Remember, dogs are individuals just like humans.
We focus on getting the best out of you and your dog, as together you are the perfect team who learn and grow together, and we want you to stay that way. The type of training depends on both owner and dog, and training needs differ hugely: building confidence for dogs who are fearful, managing aggression, and obedience disciplines. We've trained dogs who have gone on to become successful therapy dogs in hospital, school and care home settings.
We aren't just a one-off trainer, and one size doesn't fit all, so we take the time to understand every human and dog partnership. We pride ourselves on the aftercare of our training. Years down the line we are always still here to help, no matter how long ago you left us.
Back To Basics Dog Training Sunderland started with my father, Gilbert Crossley, in 2012. Since 1996 he served as a Police Dog Handler and Home Office Instructor, training police dogs to the highest standards in obedience, bite work, scent work and tracking. He was also a Dog Legislation Officer, dealing with dangerous dogs.
My mother, Nicole Crossley, was also a Sergeant in the police, trained by Gilbert. Having retired, Nicole trained our family dog Robbie to become a reading dog in a local primary school, which proved massively successful.
Gilbert's experience outweighs most, and I, as his daughter, have been taught everything he knows. I have been involved with the business since it started, and eventually took over the running of Back To Basics Dog Training Sunderland.
Together we have a fantastic training approach which looks at the dog and human as a team, as a whole. Your dog is a member of your family, so we focus on how humans and dogs communicate with each other in order to build trust.
We look at the relationship as a whole, not just the dog in isolation.
We focus on how you and your dog communicate, because trust is the foundation.
We constantly observe body language and vocal tone to bring out the best in your dog.
We make sure you can spot the signs of a change in your dog's emotional state, and how to manage it.
Taught everything by her father, Gilbert. Sarah has been involved since the club began and now runs Back To Basics.
A Police Dog Handler and Home Office Instructor since 1996, and a Dog Legislation Officer. He founded the club in 2012.
A former police Sergeant, trained by Gilbert, who trained the family's own reading dog, Robbie.
Fully insured, with appropriate public liability in place. See our qualifications & accreditations →
Whether it's your first puppy class or focused 1:1 help, we'd love to meet you and your dog.
