Canine Conversations

21/01/2025

Why is Asking for Space Such a Trigger?

Today, I experienced something that left me both frustrated and disheartened. While with a sweet little Staffy and her Mum, a man with two Groodles allowed his dogs to approach us. I asked, “Can you please call your dog?” As I turned to walk away and create space.

His response was unexpected and quite confronting: “Don’t you dare talk to me like that!” He pointed at me as he spoke, and I was shocked and shaken by his reaction.

A lovely passerby stepped in, kindly telling him that he needed to control his dogs. It made us feel supported, but the situation only worsened when the dogs ran off the designated beach and headed to Pinnaroo, clearly out-of-bounds for the dogs. This highlighted a complete lack of control.

When they eventually returned, they went straight for my bag, trampling through my belongings and eating my food. I laughed nervously as this unfolded—not because it was amusing, I felt uncomfortable and in disbelief. Once again, “Can you please get your dogs off my things and stop them from eating my food?”

What followed was disheartening. He ignored me for what felt like 20 seconds before finally attempting to retrieve his dogs—one slipped its collar and ran back. Not once did he apologise. Not a word of accountability. It felt as though he was purposefully waiting, defying the request to exert some kind of control over the situation.

Meanwhile, the dog I was supporting, alongside her mum, watched as our belongings were trampled and my food eaten. It was upsetting on so many levels.

Here’s what I truly struggle to understand: why are people so angry when others ask for space or control of their dogs? A simple apology or acknowledgment would have defused the situation. I wasn’t rude, nor was I unreasonable.

The law is clear:
• Dogs are required to remain on lead in certain areas and times.
• Dogs must be under effective control at all times.

This isn’t just about legal compliance—it’s about respect and safety. Imagine if my children helped themselves to someone else’s picnic; it wouldn’t be acceptable. So why is it different for dogs?

I know most dog guardians are responsible, but I can’t help but wonder: why do some feel so triggered when reminded of the boundaries we all share? Respect and communication go a long way.

To the kind lady who spoke up, thank you. Your support was a bright moment in an otherwise upsetting interaction. ( especially as you didn’t have a dog on your hot girl morning walk!)

Let’s continue to advocate for responsible dog ownership and respectful community spaces.

Have you experienced something similar? How do you handle these situations?
Please; if you feel angry when asked for space can you help me to understand why?

Yes I know I can’t spell. 😅🤍☀️

12/01/2025

Every being—human or animal—processes trauma, fear, and the world around them in a way that is entirely unique to them. Their experiences, boundaries, and adaptations are valid, even when we don’t fully understand.

Some dogs will always have boundaries, and that’s okay—it’s a healthy response to who they are as individuals. I’ve seen senior dogs show remarkable resilience, adapting to new environments and processing emotions. And yet, I’ve also worked with puppies struggling to navigate the world simply because of who they are at their core.

On a personal level, I feel scared and anxious most of the time, sometimes crippling anxiety. It’s stopped me from flying to England to say goodbye to my Nan who passed last year on my birthday.

Working with your dogs, some yes, they are dangerous to me, is a privilege. Maybe people would prefer a flight to England than working with dogs who could bite?

Just because we don’t fully understand someone’s experience doesn’t mean we can’t respond with empathy and patience.

Let’s honour individuality—in humans, dogs, and beyond. 🤍

What fears have you or your dog overcome or working to? 🖤

05/01/2025

Hi peeps, I’ve put together a little survey to make sure I’m creating information that is helpful and delivered in a format that suits your time, learning style and budget. 🐾

Please take this oppurtnity to tell us what you need. How can we be more accessible and affordable, with the relevant infomation to support you virtually.

23/12/2024

Coming Soon: For Pet Parents & Pet Professionals! 🐕

My goal has always been to help animals and their people, now my plan is to expand my reach virtually— making it more accessible and cost-effective for everyone.

Pet Pros:
I know how overwhelming and daunting it can be to step into the world of dog training, especially when guidance and support aren’t always readily available. My experience was less than enjoyable so I made a promise, if ever I was in the position, I will nurture new trainers. To provide encouragement so you grow with confidence to be your unique self.

Whether you’re looking to build your skills, start your journey, develop further or 1:1, I’ll have coaching programs forever evolving.

For Pet Parents: I’ve been beyond honoured to connect with you, your dedication inspires me and your kindness brings me to a place of belonging.
So much work needs to be done, I’ll be offering case studies covering a variety of topics, such as:
🐾 Managing multi-dog household dynamics.
🐾 Addressing resource guarding.
🐾 Supporting herding breeds in urban environments.
🐾 Big Emotions On Walks.
🐾 Aggressive behaviours in specific situations.

To kick things off, I’m launching with a Case Study Masterclass for professionals, perfect for trainers looking to connect, ask questions, and gain valuable insights. This interactive session will host 10–15 trainers—your chance to trial and explore what’s to come!

💻 Expect webinars, live events, seminars, and masterclasses designed to connect us on a deeper level.

✨ I’ll also be applying to have my courses approved for CEUs, making them even more valuable for professionals seeking continuing education.

Click the link in bio, to sign up and select whether you’re a Pet Parent or Professional to get updates relevant to your needs.

Let’s learn, grow, and create change together! See you soon! 🙋🏼‍♀️

Progressive Canine Coaching
Virtual Training For The Real World 💻🐕🌲

Join the conversation for updates on coaching courses, mentorship programs, presentations and practical advice via blogs.

18/12/2024

✨A Gut Feeling: Transforming Fear and Aggression✨

Did you know that your dog’s gut health plays a critical role in fear extinction, emotional regulation, and behaviour change? 🧠🐾

The gut-brain axis connects the gut microbiome to the central nervous system, directly influencing emotional resilience and memory processing—essential factors in overcoming fear and aggression.

Emerging evidence highlights that:
• Prebiotics like inulin and fructans (found in foods like banana and asparagus) support healthy gut bacteria, promoting resilience and reducing inflammation.
•A balanced gut microbiome may help reduce chronic stress and improve adaptability to new environments or triggers.

A huge thank you to Dr Amber Batson for her invaluable insights shared through Aggressive Dog webinars, which deepen our understanding of behaviour science and holistic solutions. 💡

Thank you Dr Kate for your clinical notes, I’m always learning. 🤍

By nurturing the gut, we can unlock the brain’s potential for calm, confidence, and lasting change in our dogs.

Take the quiz with ⬇️ceuticals https://canineceuticals.com.au/pages/dog-health-quiz

02/12/2024

https://www.poundpaws.com.au/post/christmas-gift-guide-paw-some-brands-to-spoil-your-furry-friends-this-year

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21/11/2024

Choosing the right trainer for your dog is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a pet parent.

Sadly, many people invest time and money into aversive ‘trainers’ who not only fail to address the issue but often leave dogs traumatised.

By the time they reach an ethical trainer or behaviour consultant, we’re not just working on the original problem—we’re also undoing the damage caused by harsh methods. Sometimes, the consequences are devastating. 💔

What’s in this post?
👏🏻How to spot an ethical trainer.
👏🏻Red flags to avoid when choosing a trainer.
👏🏻Tips if you can’t afford a trainer right now.

Aversive techniques don’t “fix”behaviour—they suppress it. For dogs with pain (e.g., hip dysplasia), PTSD, health issues, or genetic predispositions, force-based methods make things worse. Ethical training focuses on trust, understanding, and creating lasting solutions. 💕

Save this post for later or share it with a friend who might need this advice. Together, we can help more pet parents make informed choices and save dogs from unnecessary harm. 🌟

10/10/2024

This website is a brilliant information hub to support healthier breeding, and welfare in dogs. Check out the health profile of Aussie Sheps!https://dogwellnet.com/content/health-and-breeding/breeds/breed-specific-health-reports/get-a-grihp-on-australian-shepherds-r715/

07/10/2024

I often see comments on Facebook about aggressive dogs needing to “know who is boss.” This mindset is not only wrong, but also dangerous and devastating. The key to reducing aggression is by being safe, consistent, and predictable—not through fear.

If “being the boss” seems to have worked, it’s likely because the dog has learned to suppress how they truly feel, simply to avoid worse consequences. At some point, they were scared or hurt, and now they see you as unpredictable. Some breeds, in particular, tend to find their way into homes with a heavy hand.

What a sad life—living in fear just to serve your ego and lack of education.

Every being deserves kindness and understanding.
An animal living in a human world is hard enough.

02/10/2024

DISCOUNT CODE 50% OFF 💚

https://lyka.com.au/join/CANINECONVOS?utm_medium=email&_hsmi=327042412&utm_content=327042412&utm_source=hs_email

25/09/2024

👀

I would love love love to shoot a Mondio or IGP trial. I find dogs heeling pretty so fascinating!

If you know who I can get in touch with to organise this, please reach out. 🤍

17/09/2024

Wooooo 🍌🍌🍌🍌🍌 no Electricity on the collars here!

16/09/2024

Spaying: Pros and Cons – Do Us Girls Really Need All Our Bits?

Deciding whether to spay your pet involves weighing the benefits against the potential drawbacks.

Pros:
✔️ Prevents reproductive diseases
✔️ Reduces unwanted behaviours related to procreating, like marking, inappropriate attention, and mess
✔️ Prevents pseudopregnancy if done at the appropriate time
✔️ Helps control pet overpopulation
✔️ Can help reduce behaviour shifts during pre-estrus

Cons:
❌ Hormonal changes affecting metabolism, bone density, skin, and coat
❌ Increased risk of urinary incontinence
❌ Potential impact on behaviour and cognitive function

Understanding these aspects can help you make a more informed decision for your pet’s health and happiness.

04/09/2024

I dont understand how it can be justified. Ever.

What are shock collars and why are they so ineffective (and unsafe) to use on dogs?

04/09/2024

https://www.barkandwhiskers.com/2024-08-30-flea-and-tick-treatments/?cid_source=bwinactive&cid_medium=email&cid_content=art1ReadMore&cid=20240830Z1&ref=bark-whiskers-newsletter

These chemicals are so toxic, they were banned - or at least restricted - for agricultural use. Yet the year after the complete ban of one of these chemicals, massive amounts were sold for the domestic pet market. Now, pets and the environment are paying the steep price.

01/09/2024

A fab blog on itchy skin from Lyka Pet Food

Wondering what to feed your dog with itchy skin? Lyka's expert guide is a great place to start: here's what you need to know.

15/08/2024

I’ve created this guide to support guardians in navigating communication with breeders. It offers insights to help you identify red flags, whether you’re dealing with potential scammers or breeders who lack a proper welfare plan. As science and information evolve, it’s crucial to stay informed—education over ego. Let’s continue to learn and grow for our dogs, because they deserve it.