Our Story

George’s journey into dog training started at just five years old with Bobi, his grandfather’s loyal companion. Bobi listened to no one but young George, and through playful trial and error, their bond grew strong—so strong that Bobi once saved George’s life. That moment sealed an unbreakable connection and sparked a lifelong passion for understanding dogs.

Years later, during the 1990s wars in Bosnia, George put his instincts and dedication to critical use, training dogs to detect landmines. These life-saving partnerships were a testament to the trust and communication built between human and dog.

After moving to the peaceful woods of West Cork, George welcomed Bucko, a German Shepherd puppy, into his life. Bucko’s calm and balanced behaviour quickly drew the attention of local dog owners, who began seeking George’s guidance. Though not yet professionally trained, George’s natural, intuitive approach helped many dogs—and their owners—find harmony.

As demand grew, George formalised his skills through certified Animal First Aid Training, Working with Animals and Animal Course care and PDTI – Professional Dog Training Instructor Course, transforming a lifelong passion into a professional path. In May 2015, Happy Houndz was born—built on decades of hands-on experience, a deep respect for canine companions, and a heartfelt mission: to help dogs thrive and their humans live happier lives beside them.