Karen Johnston
Owner and Head Trainer of Learners On Lead
My passion for animals blossomed at a young age. I was always bringing home various creatures, hoping my parents would let me keep them. Growing up, I developed a deep love for horses and always had a loyal dog by my side.
I am dedicated to continuous learning and regularly seek knowledge from professional trainers around the globe. I hold certifications in Canine Behaviour and Training, Canine Nutrition, and I am also a Certified Canine Massage Therapist.
Throughout my journey, I have achieved success in various competitive disciplines including Agility, Obedience, Rally O, Scent Detection, and Tracking.
I've had the incredible opportunity to work on a film set with my dog Shine; helped train three dogs that passed their Public Access Test to become assistance dogs; and I currently participate in a Pet Therapy program two mornings a week at Dubbo Base Hospital with two of my dogs.
Meet my dogs
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Bazil
DOB: April, 2009
Breed: Small Black Terrier Mix
About: What a surprise package this little dog is! I was sceptical at first, having never had a little dog before. However, to cut a long story short, Bazil has turned out to be an absolute treasure. He is smart, fun and athletic and I am having the time of my life training, playing and loving this little guy.
Special interests: Bazil trained and competed in Agility, Obedience, Rally O, Nose Work and Man-Trailing and was a Nursing Home Therapy Dog.
Bazil is now retired and enjoying his twilight years in luxury.
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Abbey
DOB: March, 2012
Breed: Grand Bassett Griffon Vendeen
About: Abbey is 100% hound. She is independent and lives to smell and follow scents with that big nose of hers.
Special interests: Abbey also competed in Agility, Obedience, Rally O, Nose Work and was a Nursing Home Therapy Dog.
Abbey is also retired and enjoying her senior years on the farm.
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Scooter
DOB: September, 2015
Breed: Golden Retriever X Kelpie
About: Scooter has been earning his keep since the day he arrived home as at nine weeks. He is amazing at assisting unconfident dogs in lots of situations; he has proven to be a calm influence and keeping the peace in a large group of dogs. Scooter is an incredible demonstration dog and schoolmaster for the human end of the leash from time to time.
Special interests: In his spare time, Scooter competed in Agility, Obedience, Rally O and was a Nursing Home Therapy Dog. Scooter also loves to play the game of Nose Work and Man-Trailing and is just an all-round cuddle bug!
Scooter is currently helping people at Dubbo Base Hospital as a Therapy Dog in several wards.
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Shine
DOB: October 2020
Breed: Working Line Golden Retriever
About: Shine is the newest addition to the family. We imported Shine from New Zealand, and she is what is referred to as a Field Golden Retriever or Working Golden Retriever. These differ from the Standard Golden Retriever in that they are leaner/lighter in build and red in colour. Shine comes from working lines that go back over seven recorded generations. These dogs have been to work in the field, and excel at hunting, fishing, swimming, and enjoy a more active lifestyle.
At one year old Shine was cast as one of the lead characters dogs (Harry) in a mini series for Prime Amazon, “The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart”. This was a big ask for such a young dog but with lots of training and great cast members we got the job done.
Shine is a kick ass tracking dog and a joy to be with. Shine is starting her career as a Therapy Dog joining Scooter at our local Hospital.
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Milo (‘Boggle’)
2015 - 2025
Breed: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
About: Boggle Dog come into our home as a two-year-old in 2017. He was a little snuggle bug and loved to lead Scooter astray.
Special interests: Boggle was a Nursing Home Therapy Dog.
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Zac
2002 - 2016
Breed: Black Labrador Golden Retriever cross
About: Zac was a special boy; he went to the Rainbow Bridge when he was 14 years old. Zac came to me as a very unconfident dog at two years of age in 2004. He taught me the benefits of being calm, consistent and patient with my training. Through positive reinforcement training, Zac gained confidence and over the years, became an excellent demonstration dog and assistant in class.
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Shadow
2002 - 2009
Breed: German Shepherd
About: My girl, oh how you stole my heart. Shadow wasn't with us long; she was unwell from the start but oh my goodness what a dog. I owe so much to her, what she taught me, how she loved me, the best friend a girl could ask for. Miss you every day and when I walk the paddocks, I still see you bounding with joy through the trees.
