Next Level Dog Training

Meet Our Team

Bound by a shared vision and fuelled by an unwavering passion for revolutionising dog training, two friends united to create a transformative movement. Together, they are rewriting the rules, unlocking the extraordinary potential of every dog.

MATT

DOG TRAINER
Matt NLDT
Matt NLDT
Matt NLDT
After leaving the military in 2007, I embarked on a remarkable journey in the civilian world as a Detection Dog Handler alongside my loyal partner, Chester. Together, we fearlessly served alongside the Police, Customs officials, festival organisers, and even searched aircraft in two of the largest airports in the UK.

Driven by a relentless passion, I immersed myself in the security dog industry, where I welcomed two magnificent German Shepherds into my life: Nema and Tor. We underwent rigorous training with esteemed police and ex-military instructors, culminating in our successful completion of the NASDU Level 2 certification.

However, my passion for training flourished, prompting a life-altering decision. Drawing upon my extensive knowledge gained throughout the years, I resolved to assist others in their journey. This led me to undertake an intensive six-month dog training program and behaviourist course under the tutelage of the esteemed Will Atherton, becoming proudly recognised as a Will Atherton approved trainer. Fueling my thirst for knowledge, I further pursued a Level 3 diploma in dog behaviour.

Currently, I am dedicated to expanding my expertise by pursuing to become a NASDU Instructor and am now an official UK Sniffer Dog Instructor. Throughout my career, I have traveled across the country, working with an array of dogs including cherished pets, invaluable working dogs, and exceptional detection dogs. While I am passionate about all areas of training, modern training methods and dealing with dogs with extreme behaviour, there is a special place in my heart for scent work—it ignites a fire within me like no other.

JUSTIN

DOG TRAINER
Justin NLDT
Justin NLDT
Justin NLDT
Born and raised in the countryside, my journey unexpectedly led me to the bustling streets of London, working for none other than Google. Yet, the allure of the rural landscapes eventually beckoned me back to my roots.

With an innate love for dogs coursing through my veins, I embarked on a quest to find the finest genetically bred German Shepherd that this land had to offer. Serendipitously, I stumbled upon a four-month-old male from a Protection School. As I stood witness to the sight of professional handlers harmoniously training with their canine companions, an indescribable fascination took hold of me. From that transformative moment, I resolved to dedicate myself to becoming an exceptional dog trainer.

During my time at Dog Training College, I immersed myself in a vast array of disciplines, acquiring a plethora of canine training accreditations ranging from dog psychology and puppy training to obedience, canine body language, and animal welfare. Notably, I earned my coveted NASDU Level 2 accreditation as a proficient handler in dog teams. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of positively impacting the lives of countless dogs and their devoted families across the United Kingdom. 

Amongst the many facets of dog training, my heart beats most fervently for addressing extreme behaviour, dog reactivity and fear-based behaviours. I wholeheartedly embrace the challenge of working with dogs that others may shy away from. It is my unwavering passion to extend a helping hand to those who need it most, and I am resolute in my commitment to making a difference and helping them become high level canine leaders through our canine training boot camp, perfect puppy training and dog training programs. 

CHRIS

DOG TRAINER
Chris NLDT
Chris NLDT
Chris NLDT
My first taste of dog training began in my childhood, where I have fond memories of spending countless hours alongside my father, diligently attending training classes with our beloved German Shepherd. Many years later, my trajectory has taken me through the military, leading me into the security industry, and down the path of dog handling.

In pursuit of excellence, I earned my NASDU Level 2 certificate, a Level 3 accreditation in canine behaviour, and successfully completed a comprehensive decoy course. Armed with a wealth of knowledge and refined skills, I've dedicated myself to training a diverse array of dogs, including achieving exceptional standards with my personal dogs.

As a massive animal lover, I currently share my life with four remarkable dogs—a duo of hardworking Springer Spaniels, a majestic Cane Corso, and a working Belgian Malinois. My passion lies in the pursuit of building better dogs and to reinforce the bond between owner and dog.

LUKE

DOG TRAINER
Luke NLDT
Luke NLDT
Luke NLDT
My love for dogs began when I was eight years old, taking my Weimeraner (Frea) to puppy classes with my dad. She very quickly became my best friend and we went everywhere together. My adoration for dogs grew more and more but my life took me on a very different path into a career in education. After leaving university, I immediately immersed myself back into the world of dogs and welcomed a new friend into my life.

My new Hungarian Vizsla (Cali) became the perfect companion as my love for hiking in the countryside and the coastal paths became even more enjoyable with a friend like her by my side. Initially I set a target of walking the circumference of the earth and a few years ago we surpassed this totalling over 27,000 miles together making many great memories along the way. I spent 15 years as a teacher before realising that I wasn't achieving my dream.

Three years ago I decided to make that switch in careers and began my journey into the fantastic world of dog training and the myriad pleasures associated with working with such amazing animals. During my career so far I have had the opportunity to work with hundreds of dogs, all with their own unique personalities and complex needs.

My experience to date has mainly focused on dealing with highly reactive behaviours and dogs who have struggled to cope with their own fear and anxiety. Helping these dogs adjust and adapt has been the most rewarding thing I have ever done, really inspiring and motivating me to continue my journey and become the best trainer I can be.

Rob

DOG TRAINER
Rob NLDT
Rob NLDT
Rob NLDT
I have over 10 years of experience training dogs through one-to-one sessions, group classes, and residential programmes. My lifelong passion for dogs drives my commitment to helping pets and their owners achieve harmony.

Watching a dog transform from an unruly companion into a well-behaved, balanced family member is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. Each success reinforces my dedication to making a difference in the lives of dogs and their owners.

In the summer of 2023, I was proud to join the Next Level Dog Training team. Working alongside such a professional and committed group has been an incredible experience.

Together, we’ve helped countless dogs and their owners create stronger bonds and live better lives. Being part of a team that prioritises results, compassion, and tailored solutions allows me to continue pursuing my passion for dog training at the highest level.

Alisha

KENNEL STAFF
Alisha NLDT
Alisha NLDT
Alisha NLDT
From a young age, my ambition was to work with dogs. Growing up in a family that always had dogs, my love for these incredible animals developed naturally. Today, I own two loyal German Shepherds and have been surrounded by dogs for as long as I can remember. My journey began at 16, working in kennels, where I gained valuable experience in canine care. I joined Next Level Dog Training to further pursue my passion.

As a kennel assistant, my primary role is ensuring the dogs' daily welfare. This includes cleaning, feeding, exercise, administering medication, and grooming. I also assist during training sessions, which allows me to continuously build my skills and knowledge.

At our training school, we welcome a wide variety of dogs—different breeds, sizes, and temperaments—which can be challenging but incredibly fulfilling. Witnessing the transformation of each dog as they develop into well-behaved companions is what makes this role so rewarding. It’s a privilege to be part of a team that dedicates itself to improving the lives of dogs and their owners.

Chloe

KENNEL STAFF
Chloe NLDT
Chloe NLDT
As a dedicated kennel team member at Next Level Dog Training, Chloe ensures every dog’s daily care, comfort, and wellbeing. Her days are filled with feeding, cleaning, exercise, playtime, and grooming, making sure each dog feels at home and well looked after during their stay.

Growing up with Labradors and German Shepherds, thanks to her dad’s work as a dog handler and trainer, Chloe developed a deep love for dogs from an early age. She finds it incredibly rewarding to see the positive transformations in the dogs she cares for and takes pride in being part of their journey.

For Chloe, looking after the dogs isn’t just a job—it’s a passion. She knows how much owners love their pets and ensures that every dog is treated with the same love and care she’d give her own

Charlie

VAN CLEANING GURU
Charlie
Charlie
Meet Charlie, the youngest (and possibly the most enthusiastic) member of the Next Level Dog Training team! As Matt’s son, Charlie has grown up around dogs and training, but let’s be honest—his true passion lies in keeping our company vans spotless.

When he’s not busy with school or other activities, you’ll likely find him armed with a jet-washer, determined to make our vans shine like they just rolled out of a showroom. With a keen eye for detail and a love for a squeaky-clean finish, Charlie takes van maintenance to the next level.

Rumour has it he’s secretly training the dogs to wipe their paws before hopping in—but until that day comes, he’ll continue his mission of battling muddy paw prints, dog hair, and the occasional biscuit crumb left behind by the trainers.

Charlie’s motto? “A clean van is a happy van!”

© 2025 Next Level Dog Training. All rights reserved.

Matt NLDT
Are You
Misreading
Your Dog?
Unlock the secrets of canine communication with our free guide. Understand your dog’s signals and build a stronger bond.

Enter your email to get instant access!
Open chat
1
Hello 👋
How. can we help you?