Pup Talk, an innovative dog training business from West London, is celebrating after winning an award from TV star and entrepreneur Theo Paphitis. 

Founder, Niki French helps stressed dog parents with fun and effective dog training, in-person locally and online. 

She won Dragon’s Den star Theo’s Small Business Sunday award in late November and was presented with her certificate at the ICC in Birmingham on Friday. 

Niki, 54, wrote the best-selling book STOP Walking Your Dog, created #dontwalkyourdogday (2nd April) and hosts Pup Talk The Podcast. She also provided 1-2-1 training and an online membership community so that stressed pet parents can learn how to effectively train their dog.

In the last 18 months, over 2,600 copies of STOP Walking Your Dog have been sold and Pup Talk The Podcast has nearly 12,000 downloads. #dontwalkyourdogday went viral last April 2nd hitting 2 million mentions.

She said: “Many dog parents are struggling with good quality, affordable training help after going through lockdown with new or existing dogs. It’s really important people are able to get the help that they need so that they can have dog that is calm and happy. 

“Through my membership, book and free podcast I am helping thousands of dog lovers. People can play effective training games at home with their dog to grow the skills they are lacking. It’s amazing to have my hard work recognised by Theo.” 

“Dog training isn’t something to tick off a list as done. Dogs’ needs change throughout their lives and having access to training at any time and a friendly community can be a lifesaver. But working 1-2-1 with a dog trainer isn’t something everyone can afford or have time for; my membership means people are supported whenever they need help with their dog’s behaviour.

During the pandemic, the dog population went from 9.5 million to 12.5 million and in March 2020 face-to-face training and classes had to cease. Millions of dog parents needed help with the new lockdown dogs.

Existing dogs also had to cope with changes like their humans suddenly being home a lot more but unavailable due to working online. And then the house was suddenly empty again as people came out of lockdown and back into offices. Dogs are having to adapt all the time. 

Small Business Sunday is weekly initiative set up by Theo Paphitis in 2010 and it now has over 3,000 winners within its supportive community. 

Theo said: “We are thrilled to welcome new #SBS members every week and highlight just how important it is to support our small businesses here in the UK. 

“My vision is that everyone who has ever won an #SBS re-tweet from me becomes part of a friendly club; like-minded individuals who can share successes and learnings. 

“The website will also give a valuable profile to the winners chosen and I wish Niki and Pup Talk every success.” 

Find out more about Niki on her website: http://www.puptalk.co.uk