About Me
My name is Emanuel Sjöstrand, and I’m the founder of Basic Commands. My journey began in Sweden, where I spent my early childhood before returning to the UK to join HM Forces. After 8 years of service, transitioning to civilian life was a challenge I wasn't fully prepared for. To continue serving in a different capacity, I became a K9 handler in the private military sector. It was during these deployments that I realised just how much my K9 partner, Millie, kept me and others safe - not just physically, but mentally as well.
As a retired veteran with my loyal K9 by my side, I began to understand the deep connection we shared, especially in coping with the invisible wounds of our experiences. This realisation - that dogs, much like humans, need understanding and patience to heal - was a turning point for me. After some time, I joined A1K9, where I trained protection dogs, guiding new owners through effective handling scenarios and preparing dogs for various environments, including extreme climates like Dubai.
After Millie and I had some time to heal, we made a decision to help others - specifically,
ex-police, army, and search and rescue dogs recover from the traumas they faced in service. Although Millie is no longer with us, she remains the inspiration behind
Basic Commands, which I founded in 2020.
At Basic Commands, my focus is on understanding each client’s unique circumstances and their dog’s background. This allows us to empower owners to become skilled trainers for their own dogs. Since expanding across the UK, I’ve had the privilege of working with hundreds of clients in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Haverfordwest, Jersey, and, of course, my home base in South Wales.
Between crafting handmade products based on real-time client studies and continuing to support all my furry friends, big or small, I strive to keep pushing Basic Commands forward - as a tribute to Millie and as a mission to help any paws in need.
