A Bradford-based dog training company has further cemented its reputation as one of the UK’s leading specialists in canine behaviour, after securing a string of national and international awards in 2025 and early 2026.
Bigdogfellas, widely regarded as one of Yorkshire’s finest dog communication and owner education services, has picked up multiple accolades recognising both professional excellence and long-term impact within the animal behaviour sector.
At the heart of the company’s success is its founder and lead trainer, Mudge, whose approach is rooted in more than 20 years of hands-on experience working with dogs of all breeds and temperaments, and owners facing complex behavioural challenges.
Mudge’s journey into canine behaviour began at the age of just 10, growing up in Yorkshire, when he brought home a stray Rough Collie. With no formal training background at the time, he began instinctively working with the dog, providing food, shelter and trust, while experimenting with attention, play, toys and affection to encourage learning.
That early experience proved life-changing, shaping a deep understanding of canine psychology and forging a lifelong bond with dogs that would later underpin his professional philosophy. Over time, Mudge developed what is now described as a balanced, realistic and results-driven approach, focused not only on obedience, but on strengthening the relationship between dog and owner.
Today, Bigdogfellas specialises in behaviour modification, obedience, good manners and building healthier, more effective human-canine relationships. The company offers an exclusive board-and-train programme alongside private one-to-one sessions for owners who do not require residential support.
The company’s work has been recognised across the industry, with 2025 proving to be a particularly successful year. Bigdogfellas was named Dog Training Company of the Year at the E2 Media Awards of Excellence for the second year running, alongside Accolade of Achievement 2025, also secured for a second consecutive year.
Mudge himself was recognised with the Master Dog Trainer 2024–2025 title at the Apex of Achievement awards and went on to collect multiple honours, including Animal Behaviourist of the Year 2026 (UK) from both Global 100 and M&A Today Global Awards. The business has also won Dog Training Specialist of the Year 2025/26 at the Yorkshire Prestige Awards for the third year in a row.
Further recognition includes Best Dog Trainer in Bradford from ThreeBestRated (third consecutive year), Best Rated Business in Bradford 2025 from the Quality Business Awards, Excellence Award for Canine Behaviour Modification Services 2025 (UK) at the UK Enterprise Awards, and Best Canine Behaviour Modification Service of the Year 2025 (Yorkshire) at the Pet Products & Services Awards.
Capping off the year, Mudge was also named among the Global 100 Top 100 CEOs 2025 and received the 2025 Business Leader Award from E2 Media.
The continued success of Bigdogfellas reflects a growing demand for dog training that prioritises understanding, communication and realistic outcomes — an approach that has positioned the Bradford company as a trusted name not only locally, but across the UK and beyond.
