20 Years in Dogs: Why I Created Paw Naturel

20 Years in Dogs: Why I Created Paw Naturel

I’ve worked hands-on with dogs for over 20 years.

My journey started at Myerscough College, where I completed a year-long Canine Studies course. I knew early on that I wanted to build a career working with animals after many years sitting behind a desk in an office.

From there, I trained professionally in dog grooming, studying weekly while working full-time. Grooming quickly became more than a qualification. It became a craft, understanding skin, coat types, breed differences and behaviour.

I went on to complete a Foundation Degree in Canine Behaviour and Training at Bishop Burton College, deepening my knowledge of how dogs think and respond.

Along the way, I built my own business, Tail Tapping Antics, offering dog walking, grooming and training services. I later specialised in dog bite prevention for dog groomers and handlers, and even developed pet business courses to help others start their own careers.

Dogs haven’t been a side interest for me. They’ve been my passion and profession for two decades.

Why I Decided to Create My Own Shampoo

After years of grooming, I began paying closer attention to the products I used daily.

As someone who suffers with allergies, I began experiencing reactions to certain formulations — particularly those heavy in harsh sulphates and strong synthetic fragrances.

That made me look deeper.  What I found was surprising. Many products marketed as “professional” or “premium” were built around aggressive cleansing agents and unnecessary fillers. They created big bubbles but not always balance.

And if I couldn’t confidently stand behind an ingredient list, I wasn’t prepared to use it long term.  But easier isn’t the same as better.  So instead of following what was already on the market, I focused on creating a formula that aligned with the standards I’d developed over 20 years; No harsh chemicals, natural and kind to skin and paws.

What Paw Naturel Represents

Paw Naturel was built around a simple belief:

Professional results should never compromise skin comfort.

That means:

• Sulphate-free formulation
• Suitable for frequent washing
• Effective but balanced cleansing
• Reliable performance in real-world grooming

Because real life doesn’t look like a textbook.

Active dogs get muddy. Show dogs need consistent prep. Owners want products they can trust week after week.

A good shampoo should clean properly, rinse easily and leave the coat feeling healthy — not stripped.

That’s the standard I work to.

Setting a Higher Standard

I believe the industry is gradually moving towards more thoughtful formulations. But this approach isn’t new to me,  it’s what I’ve been building towards for years.

When you work hands-on with dogs every day, you see what works long term.

You learn that respecting the skin isn’t a trend — it’s fundamental.

After 20 years in dogs, I don’t follow bandwagons.

I follow standards.

And Paw Naturel is built on mine.