Graeme Hall: The Dogfather Behind Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly
Graeme Hall, widely known as “The Dogfather,” has become a household name in the UK thanks to his expert dog training skills and his charismatic television presence on Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly. With a reputation built on hands-on experience, motivational speaking, and a distinctive approach that bridges canine and human psychology, Graeme Hall has revolutionised dog training for the modern age.
Who is Graeme Hall?
Early Life and Education
Graeme Hall hails from Chipping Norton, England. He studied at the University of Hull, graduating with a BA (Hons) in Hispanic Studies in 1987. Despite his academic background not being directly linked to animal behaviour, his people skills and communication prowess laid a strong foundation for his later career. He also attended Cardinal Heenan High School and St. Thomas Aquinas Grammar School in Leeds.
Corporate Career
Before pursuing his passion for dog training, Graeme spent over two decades in the corporate sector. His last corporate role was at Weetabix, where he managed over 200 staff across multiple production plants. This experience in team management and behavioural influence played a crucial role in shaping his unique dog training approach.
Transition to Dog Training
The Birth of The Dogfather
Graeme Hall entered the dog training world in his early 40s after acquiring two unruly Rottweiler puppies. This personal challenge led him to explore canine behaviour more deeply. In 2008, he founded Dogfather Training Ltd, setting up as a full-time dog trainer and behaviourist.
Practical Experience and Reach
Since then, Graeme has trained over 5,000 dogs of all breeds, temperaments, and sizes. His services are tailored to visit the dogs in their own environment, which he believes is essential for diagnosing and correcting behavioural problems effectively. He has even extended his reach internationally, working in places such as Australia and New Zealand.
Qualifications
Graeme holds the title of Master Dog Trainer with the Guild of Dog Trainers. While this is a respected industry membership, it is not a formally accredited academic qualification. His credentials are grounded more in real-world success and extensive hands-on experience than in formal scientific study.
Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly
TV Stardom
Graeme Hall shot to fame with his role in Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly, a Channel 5 series that follows his visits to dog owners across the UK to resolve behavioural problems. The show has become incredibly popular due to Hall’s calm demeanor, practical tips, and rapid results. He is praised for making dog training accessible and understandable for the average dog owner.
Media Recognition
Dubbed “the best dog trainer in the country” by the Daily Telegraph, Graeme Hall has appeared on BBC Radio, ITN News, and regularly contributes to publications such as Countryside magazine. His media presence adds a strong layer of credibility and visibility to his brand.
Graeme Hall’s Approach to Behaviour
Simple Psychology
Hall’s training philosophy is based on clear communication and consistency. He draws on lessons from both the corporate world and the canine world, often applying psychological principles that work for both people and pets. He also conducts motivational seminars and management training using these same principles.
Human Training
Graeme believes that training the owner is just as important as training the dog. He teaches clients how to influence their dogs by being consistent, calm, and clear. His work as a motivational speaker reinforces his belief that people often over-complicate behaviour management—something he aims to simplify through relatable analogies and techniques.
Graeme Hall’s Personal Life
Is Graeme Hall Married?
Graeme Hall married accountant Elinor Perry-Hall in 2017. Their wedding took place in Sri Lanka, with celebrations continuing in Warwickshire. However, as of 2024, it has been reported that Graeme is now living with a new partner in Bicester, Oxfordshire, implying a separation from Elinor.
Graeme Hall’s Wife and Family
Though not much is publicly disclosed about his current partner or family, Graeme has remained relatively private about his personal life, choosing to keep the focus on his professional achievements and his canine companions.
Net Worth and Business Ventures
Graeme Hall Net Worth
Graeme Hall’s estimated net worth is around £2.3 million. His income is derived from various streams including TV appearances, dog training services, book sales, podcasts, and corporate speaking engagements. His business, Dogfather Training Ltd, continues to thrive under his leadership.
Dog Training Prices
While exact figures vary based on location and complexity of the behavioural issue, Graeme Hall’s one-on-one training sessions are considered premium services. Given his high-profile status and success rate, clients often see his services as a valuable investment in their dog’s wellbeing.
Conclusion
Graeme Hall has successfully blended charisma, real-world experience, and relatable insights to become one of the UK’s most trusted names in dog training. Known as “The Dogfather,” his ability to simplify complex behavioural issues and communicate effectively with both humans and dogs has set him apart in a crowded field.
From his early days managing cereal production lines to transforming the lives of pet owners nationwide, Graeme Hall’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, experience, and communication. Whether you’ve seen him on TV or read his books, it’s clear that Graeme Hall is more than just a dog trainer—he’s a behavioural expert with a message for all species.
