Empowering Dogs and Their Owners
Confident Hounds is a premier dog behaviour consulting service based in Melbourne, Australia, dedicated to building harmonious relationships between dogs and their owners. We specialise in problem behaviours such as aggression, anxiety, reactivity, and resource guarding. With a deep understanding of canine behaviour, we offer personalised strategies to address challenges effectively.
That means no aversive tools or punishment-based tactics - just practical solutions grounded in behavioural science that support your dog’s wellbeing, your lifestyle, and help you build a stronger, more trusting relationship.
At Confident Hounds, we believe in empowering you with the knowledge and tools needed for a happy, harmonious life with your beloved companion.
Meet Julia – Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant CDBC
Based in Melbourne’s inner suburbs, Confident Hounds is led by Julia Cockram, a Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant (CDBC) through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and a Fear Free Certified Professional.
With over 18 years of hands-on experience working with dogs and their people, including rescue, foster care, rehabilitation, and private behaviour consulting, Julia brings deep insight, patience, and empathy to every case. Her approach combines lived experience with evidence-based, compassionate methods, and she specialises in helping dogs with:
-Aggression
-Reactivity
-Resource guarding
-Separation anxiety
-Phobias and fears
-Generalised anxiety
Julia’s journey into behaviour consulting began with a series of deeply fearful and reactive rescue dogs who needed more than love — they needed skilled, behavioural support. This experience sparked a lifelong passion for the science of animal behaviour and a drive to help other humans and dogs navigate these challenges with confidence and compassion.
As a Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant through the IAABC, Julia has undergone a rigorous, peer-reviewed credentialing process, which includes:
-Over 500 hours of behaviour consulting experience
-More than 400 hours of formal education, mentorship, and professional development
-Demonstrated understanding of complex behavioural issues
-Endorsements from industry professionals
IAABC certification is internationally recognised and held to the highest standards of education, ethics, and continuing professional development. Julia remains actively engaged in ongoing learning and is part of a global network of behaviour professionals, ensuring clients receive support grounded in the latest science and best practices.
She is also a Director at Gumtree Greys, a greyhound rescue organisation, and is deeply committed to animal welfare at both individual and systemic levels.
Whether you’re welcoming a new rescue or navigating severe behavioural challenges, Julia will meet you with clarity, compassion, and a commitment to making change feel possible.
My Story – Life with Timmy & Freya
At home, I share life with Timmy, a rescued racing greyhound, and Freya, a staghound cross adopted from the local pound. They’re both dogs with big feelings, a little quirky, beautifully sensitive, and endlessly loved.
Living with dogs like Timmy and Freya is a daily reminder of the patience, understanding, and humour needed to support dogs with complex pasts. They’ve shaped not only how I work, but why I work the way I do.
My journey into this field didn’t start with textbooks - it started in foster homes and kennels, with dogs who were scared, shut down, or misunderstood. I know what it’s like to feel out of your depth or unsure of what your dog needs. I’ve been the person searching for answers, wishing someone would just help without judgement.
That’s the kind of support I now offer.
If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply want to understand your dog better, you’re not alone. I’m here to walk alongside you with evidence-based guidance, calm confidence, and deep respect for the dog in front of you.
Expert Dog Behavior Solutions
Transform your dog's behavior with personalised consulting from a Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant
Initial Behaviour Consultation
Best for: Those not yet ready to commit to a full program
$350 – One 90-minute session (remote or in-person)
Three Session Consultation Bundle
Best for: Dogs with one or two key behaviour concerns
$850 – Three sessions over 3 months
Six Session Consultation Bundle
Best for: Dogs facing multiple or complex behaviour challenges
$1300 – Six sessions over 4 months
Resilient Canines
Happy Dogs, Happier Homes
Compassion
Integrity
Honesty and transparency are at the heart of what we do. We provide clear, straightforward advice and work with you to achieve the best achievable outcomes for your dog.
Expertise
Respect
We respect the unique bond between you and your dog. Our methods prioritise the well-being of both, fostering a harmonious relationship built on trust and respect.
Collaboration
We believe the best outcomes come from working together. Your insights matter. We value your lived experience with your dog and incorporate your goals and observations into every step of the behaviour process.
Advocacy
We stand up for the welfare of dogs through education, because we believe every dog deserves to be understood. We empower owners with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for their dog’s needs in all environments
Reach Out to Our Experts
Contact Confident Hounds for tailored solutions to your dog's behavior issues.