top of page


Does Your Anxious Dog Struggle at Christmas? Here’s Some Simple Last-Minute Advice
Christmas can feel magical, but for anxious or rescue dogs it can be a whirlwind of noise, visitors and sudden routine changes. If your dog finds the holidays overwhelming, you’re not doing anything wrong – and you’re definitely not alone. In this post, we’ll look at why Christmas can be such a challenge for nervous dogs, as well as simple, kind ways to help them feel safe and supported.
Dec 17, 2025


How to Calm Your Dog Down During Fireworks
Learn how to calm your dog down during fireworks with gentle, practical steps.
Nov 8, 2025


Why Training Your Dog Is Like Running a Half Marathon – Lessons for Dog Guardians
I just ran my first half marathon, and along the way I realised something surprising – training for a long race has a lot in common with helping a dog overcome behavioural challenges. From building foundations and taking small steps, to embracing setbacks and celebrating progress, the lessons I learned as a runner can help you see your dog’s journey in a whole new way.
Sep 15, 2025


My Dog Won’t Settle in Cafés – Why and What You Can Do
These days, many people expect dogs to cope with all kinds of situations. From street markets and garden centres to settling in a café or pub garden, or walking calmly through busy parks full of dogs and people – it can feel like this is what a ‘good dog’ should do. But not all dogs are suited to these environments, and that’s perfectly normal. If your dog won’t settle in pubs, feels anxious in cafés, or struggles in busy public places, you’re not alone. This blog will explor
Aug 27, 2025


I Have an Anxious Rescue Dog – What Can I Do to Help Them Feel Safe?
If you’ve recently adopted a rescue dog who struggles with anxiety, you’re not alone. This post explores how a consistent routine and predictable caregiver responses help build trust and safety. Using Jojo’s story, a rescue fearful of stairs, you’ll discover practical tips to support your dog’s confidence. Whether rescue or not, these insights can help your anxious dog feel secure in their home and daily life.
Aug 20, 2025


Can’t Tire Your Dog Out? Try This Instead
If your dog never seems to settle, despite plenty of walks and enrichment toys, you’re not alone. This blog explores how understanding your dog’s breed traits and natural instincts can unlock calmer behaviour at home – without adding more to your to-do list. With a real-life case study of a Patterdale Terrier rescue, this is a must-read for anyone living with a high-energy or working-breed dog.
Aug 13, 2025


My Dog Bit Me Out of Nowhere – What Really Happened?
If your dog has bitten someone – or come close – it’s a frightening, isolating experience. This blog unpacks why it might have happened, how to respond without blame, and what real progress can look like. Whether the bite seemed to come out of nowhere or was a long time coming, you’re not alone – and there is help.
Aug 6, 2025


Why Does My Dog Growl at Me? Understanding What ‘Bad Behaviour’ Really Means
It can be worrying when your dog growls at you – but it’s not a sign of aggression. Growling is your dog’s way of communicating discomfort. This post explores why dogs growl, common triggers, and how to respond in a way that supports your dog and builds trust.
Jul 29, 2025


Feeling Stuck with Your Dog? How to Understand Training Progress
Struggling to see progress with your dog? Real dog training progress rarely happens overnight – it’s made up of small, meaningful steps that build confidence, calm, and connection. Discover how to recognise these moments and support your dog in a way that truly meets their individual needs.
Jun 17, 2025


Why Your Dog Deserves a Tailored Approach
Every dog is different – so it makes sense that they need different approaches to learning, too. In this blog, I explore why one-size-fits-all training often falls short, and how a tailored, compassionate approach can help your dog feel safe, supported, and understood. Whether you're struggling with behaviour challenges or just want to do right by your dog, this post is for you.
May 13, 2025


Adopting a Rescue Dog: Key Steps to a Successful Start
In this post, I’ll share expert advice on helping your new rescue dog feel safe, secure and at home
Mar 6, 2025


Behind the Scenes of a Behaviour Consultation: What to Expect & How It Can Help Your Dog
In this post, I’ll take you behind the scenes of a behaviour consultation so you know exactly what to expect when seeking professional help
Feb 14, 2025


The Top 3 Secure Dog Walking Fields in Warwickshire: A Guide for Reactive Dog Owners
My favourite secure fields for reactive dogs in Warwickshire - and why avoidance alone isn't the best strategy
Jan 29, 2025


Bark Humbug! Unwrapping the Secrets to a Safe and Stress-Free Canine Christmas
The festive season brings a lot of joy - but it can also pose hidden dangers for our furry companions. Whether you're a puppy parent or...
Dec 3, 2024


What Is Cooperative Care Training, and How Can It Help your Dog?
Learn how to take the stress out of grooming and vet visits with cooperative care training
Aug 22, 2024


Night-Time Crying and Alone Time: Helping Your Rescue Dog Settle In
When people adopt a rescue dog, they often picture it being a joyful and exciting time – so it can be really hard to see their new furry friend struggling. New adopters often report that their dog is crying, whining or barking when left in another room during the night or when they are left home alone. Understanding the reasons behind this behaviour and learning how to address it can help you and your dog transition smoothly into a happy life together, so here is my advice fo
Jun 6, 2024


Beyond the Bribe: Embracing Food Rewards in Dog Training
Is using treats in training equivalent to 'bribery'? Should dogs just 'want to please us'? And is carrying treats on walks really so hard?
May 21, 2024


Does Force-Free Training Always Work for Dogs?
Have you ever wondered whether force-free training will work for your dog? Read on to discover why the answer isn’t always straightforward and how to approach training with the right mindset. What is force-free training? Force-free training involves using no physical or psychological force when working with dogs. This means no lead corrections, prong collars, shouting or intimidation. Force-free trainers may also be called positive reinforcement or fear-free trainers, and whi
Feb 21, 2024


You Are What You Eat – The Importance of Good Nutrition for Our Dogs
With so many brands and types of food on offer, choosing the right one can be a real minefield for owners – here are some tips to get you st
Feb 5, 2024


December Subscriber Q&A
My Christmas gift to you – my answers to some of the training questions sent in by subscribers to my newsletter! My dog has learned to...
Dec 21, 2023
bottom of page
