Trail Sniffers

07/08/2024

I have the privilege of working with some of the most incredible dog guardians and divine pups. I hope these beautiful pups brighten your day as they do mine.

Thrilled to be able to share some of my weekly walk and train pups with you all.

06/08/2024

I often have people stop and ask me where I get my leads from, so I wanted to share with you all the amazing Zhani leads that have transformed my training and outdoor adventures.

As a dog behaviourist and a passionate dog guardian, I am always on the lookout for tools that make training and adventures safer and more enjoyable. After seeing the incredible difference Zhani's long dog leads have made in my own dogs' lives and the lives of my clients, I knew I had to share this amazing product with all of you!

These leads are made from waterproof, tough, yet lightweight material, making them perfect for any weather and terrain. Whether I'm working with my own dogs or helping clients, these leads have proven to be reliable and versatile. They come in four convenient sizes: 1.5m, 3m, 5m, and 10m, catering to different training needs and outdoor activities.

One of my favourite ways to use these leads is for sniff adventures and providing my dogs with an opportunity to explore and sniff more during walks while still maintaining control and safety. These leads are also fantastic for practicing recall and helping to give our dogs a more freedom to be dogs.

Want to give them a try? Use my discount code TRAILSNIFFERS for an exclusive deal! Your dog will thank you, and you'll love the difference it makes in your training and adventures.

Happy training and happy trails! 🐾

06/08/2024

This very handsome boy is looking for his purrfect forever home. Currently making himself very comfy in Platypus Pet Shop getting all the cuddles he deserves. Make sure you call in to meet him. Lets try and find Leo his happily ever after home.

14/06/2024

12/06/2024

Walking a reactive dog can be challenging and stressful for both the dog and the guardian. Reactive dogs may bark, lunge, or show other signs of distress when encountering other dogs or people. These behaviors often stem from fear, anxiety, or frustration. For the guardians, every walk can feel like navigating a minefield, requiring constant vigilance and quick thinking to avoid potential triggers.

Your understanding and cooperation can make a significant difference. By being aware of the needs and challenges faced by reactive dog guardians, you can help create a more peaceful and positive environment for everyone involved. Small actions on your part can greatly reduce stress and enhance the walking experience for reactive dogs and their guardians.

09/06/2024

What a truly remarkable community we have! Today is a wonderful day as we celebrate Snoop finding his forever home. Over the past nine months and eight days, the incredible selflessness and dedication of the volunteers at Animal Welfare League Far South Coast have made this joyous outcome possible. It has been an absolute privilege to be part of Snoop's journey and to work closely with such a devoted team.

The support from the Pambula Boarding Kennels has been invaluable, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have had the pleasure of working with Snoops's foster carers, Alison from the AWL Far South Coast Branch and the Rangers from BVSC.

To everyone who has played a part in Snoop's story, your efforts have made a world of difference. Snoop is now set to live the life he has always deserved, surrounded by love. Thank you all for your incredible work and dedication. This happy ending would not have been possible without each and every one of you. ❤️🐶

Snoop you beautiful patient boy, all the best.

03/06/2024

This June, I'm taking on The Push-Up Challenge as part of a team (made up of incredible humans) to push for better mental health care and support in Australia. As someone who has personally faced mental health challenges, I understand the struggles and the darkness that we face and what some of you might be experiencing.

My beautiful boy Jeffrey, my little superman, has been there for me when there was no light, providing a safe space, endless love, and strength during the toughest times.

Mental health is a subject that isn't spoken about enough, and it's time to change that. By participating in this challenge, we aim to shine a light on these issues, bringing them out of the shadows and into the open where they can be addressed with the care and attention they deserve.

I know many of you have faced similar challenges or have loved ones who have. Sadly, I've lost friends to su***de, and I know how important it is to have support and resources available for those in need.

Our community is powerful, and together, we can raise awareness and provide support and advocacy for mental health. By participating in this challenge, my team and I are raising funds for Lifeline to help them deliver much-needed mental health services and initiatives.

You can make a difference in several ways: by donating to our fundraising page, joining the challenge yourself, or simply sharing this message to spread awareness. Every bit helps!

Here's the link to our fundraising page or link in bio: [www.thepushupchallenge.com.au/fundraisers/camihartnett/the-push-up-challenge](http://www.thepushupchallenge.com.au/fundraisers/camihartnett/the-push-up-challenge).

Let's come together to build a stronger, more supportive community. Remember, you're not alone.

Thank you for your support.

22/05/2024

I am so lucky to share my Wednesday's with some of the most divine pups, I just had to share their beautiful faces with you all.

22/04/2024

Let's debunk the stigma surrounding muzzles! 🐾

When we see a dog wearing a muzzle, our first thought is often that the dog is aggressive and should be avoided. However, muzzles serve various important purposes, and it's time to change the narrative.

Muzzles are a safety aid, helping dogs cope with discomfort around new people or dogs, preventing them from ingesting harmful substances, and allowing them to enjoy walks without posing a threat to wildlife and small animals.

They also play a crucial role in situations where a dog feels uneasy with formal handling, such as visits to the vet or groomers.

Even when used to manage potential aggression, it's often a fear response rather than a desire to attack. Using a muzzle demonstrates responsible ownership and ensures the safety of both the dog and those around them.

To help a dog become comfortable with a muzzle, it's important to introduce it in the right way, using positive reinforcement and gradual training.

Let's spread awareness and understanding about the positive role muzzles can play in ensuring the well-being of our furry friends. Together, let's end the stigma and promote responsible and compassionate care for all dogs.

For anyone looking for support or more information please do not hesitate to reach out to Trail Sniffers

To learn more about muzzle training please check out https://muzzleupproject.com/

My handsome boy Jeffrey is featured in this image wearing his Tolly sized muzzle from the The Muzzle Movement

If purchasing a muzzle make sure to use the code : TRAILSNIFFERS for a discount.

22/04/2024

This beautiful boy is needing URGENT HELP. I have met Snoop and he is the sweetest boy. He will need to go to a family that has not other pets. Snoop is a bouncy boofy boy and would best be suited to a home that does not have small children. For anyone who can help take this boy in I am more then happy to offer my behaviour support throughout the process.

11/04/2024

Did you know that your dog's growl is their way of communicating discomfort or unease? It's their final attempt to express themselves when other subtle cues go unnoticed.

But here's the thing: punishing a growl can have serious consequences. It teaches your dog to suppress their feelings, leaving you unaware of their distress until it's too late.

Curious to learn more about why punishing growling is a bad idea? Click the link below to read our latest blog post!

https://www.trailsniffers.com.au/blog/understanding-dog-growling-a-key-communication-tool

Don't miss out on valuable insights into understanding and respecting your dog's communication!

Unlock the secrets of your dog's communication! Discover why punishing growling can be harmful and learn how to better understand your dog's needs. Read our latest blog post for valuable insights.

08/04/2024

Recently, I had the honor of having an article featured in the "Australian Dog Lover" Magazine. The article focuses on an important topic close to my heart: "Managing Stress in Reactive Dogs Positively." I am thrilled to have the opportunity to contribute to such a reputable publication and share valuable insights into this crucial aspect of dog care. I encourage you to check out the article for valuable tips and information that may benefit you and your dog.

02/04/2024

Welcoming Home Your New Puppy

Bringing home a new puppy is a milestone filled with excitement and joy, but it's also a time that requires patience and understanding as your puppy navigates through critical developmental stages. Understanding these stages, including critical learning periods and fear periods, can greatly impact how you support your puppy's growth and adjustment to their new home.

Puppies go through several critical learning periods during their early development, which play a significant role in shaping their behavior and temperament as adults. One of the most crucial periods occurs between 3 to 14 weeks of age, known as the socialisation period. During this time, puppies are highly impressionable and more open to new experiences. Exposing them to a variety of people, animals, sounds, and environments in a positive and controlled manner can help them develop into well-adjusted and confident adults.

However, it's important to note that puppies also go through fear periods during their early development. These are times when they may become more fearful or anxious about certain stimuli, even things they were previously comfortable with. Fear periods typically occur around 8 to 11 weeks of age and again around 6 to 14 months of age. During these periods, it's crucial to be patient and avoid pushing your puppy into situations that may exacerbate their fears. Instead, provide plenty of reassurance and support as they navigate through these challenging times.

As you welcome your new puppy into your home, keep in mind the importance of providing a safe and nurturing environment where they can thrive. Set up a comfortable space for them to retreat to when they need a break, and gradually introduce them to new experiences, taking care not to overwhelm them.

Socialisation should be a top priority during your puppy's early months, but it's essential to approach it with caution and sensitivity to their developmental needs. Expose them to new people, animals, and environments, sounds gradually, always monitoring their reactions and making sure that it is a positive experience.

Consistency and patience are key throughout this process. Establishing routines and boundaries will help your puppy feel more secure and confident in their new surroundings. Remember to celebrate every milestone and cherish the precious moments as you watch your puppy grow and learn.

By understanding and respecting your puppy's developmental milestones, you can provide them with the support and guidance they need to thrive. Remember, if you ever feel overwhelmed or unsure about how to address certain behaviors, don't hesitate to seek help from a professional trainer or behaviorist. We can offer expert guidance tailored to your puppy's specific needs, helping you navigate any challenges that may arise along the way.

At Trail Sniffers Dog Behavior and Training, we specialise in helping dogs and their pet parents build strong, positive relationships through effective training methods and behavior modification techniques. Whether you're dealing with puppy behavior issues, socialisation challenges, or any other training concerns, we're here to help. Visit our website or contact us directly to learn more about our services and how we can assist you and your puppy on your journey together.

www.trailsniffers.com
[email protected]

27/03/2024

Link In BIO ⬆️

26/03/2024

This divine boy is looking for his forever home, please share so we can help him find it.

26/03/2024

I had the pleasure of writing the below article for the The Pug Diary
Make sure you are following them for all the latest Pug News, Nutrition and Wellbeing advice as well as being a part of a wonderful community who live and breathe all things PUGS :)

We all know what it is like to bring a new pug into the family and have to toilet train them. They can be so stubborn but also very motivated to please you and have some tasty treats. So with these traits and some awesome tips from Camille at Trail Sniffers, everyone can teach their pug to toilet in the area you want them to toilet whether that is on a p*e pad, in a specific spot in your yard or on fake grass. It is 100% possible.

Be sure to head to the blog and check out this training post from Camille.

Read the blog >>> https://www.thepugdiary.com/how-to-toilet-train-your-pug/

18/03/2024

I had the pleasure of talking with Eddie from ABC South East Radio about dog behaviour and the prevention of escalating behaviors leading to animal related injury. Based on the latest insights from a study by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, we discussed the surge in pet-related injuries in Australia and the crucial steps pet owners can take to ensure safer interactions with their furry companions. You can listen to the conversation below. Follow the link to read the article https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-03-13/injuries-caused-by-pets-increasing-in-australian-homes/103580222

12/03/2024

🐾✨️Free E-book! Click link in bio✨️🐾

EmBARK on an adventure with your dog and elevate your training like never before with our collaboration. Trail Sniffers and Zhani Dog Leads have teamed up and created an e-book all about long lines. Sign up now and instantly download our free long line ebook!

Discover expert tips, tricks, and techniques to enhance your outdoor training sessions and adventures with your pup! Our ebook has everything you need to make the most out of every adventure.

From long leash handling skills to maximizing your dog's opportunity to explore and be a dog all while keeping your pup safe, our guide covers it all. Click the link in our bios to sign up today.

#

08/03/2024

Something I think our amazing community could definitely benifit from down here is a Sniffspace. Sniffspace offers dogs and dog guardians the opportunity to hire out a safe environment for dog who may be reactive, anxious,fearful or just enjoy a calmer environment.

It is a great way to make a little extra money if you have a suitable area to rent out.

Please pass this on to anyone who might be interested in hiring out a location.

Find & rent private & safe fully fenced, secure off-leash dog parks & spaces hosted by locals in Australia. Explore Sniffspace Now!

26/02/2024

I recently had the privilege of joining Thom from Real Industries for an insightful podcast discussion. I shared my journey into the world of dog behaviour and training, emphasising the importance of understanding the psychological aspects driving canine behavior. While reflecting on our conversation, I do regret not mentioning one of the most insightful and influencing courses I have taken to date, my FDM (Family Dog Mediator) certification through Kim Brophy's Family Dog Mediation Education Centre and I truly believe that all aspiring dog trainers/behaviourist should take this course. Despite some technical challenges with the microphone (AI assisted with editing my voice), we explored topics such as the responsibilities of a dog trainer, pathways to becoming a professional, and valuable advice for both struggling dog owners/guardians and aspiring trainers. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect, share insights, and offer resources to fellow dog enthusiasts and professionals alike.

00:00 - IntroIntroduction to the podcast and guest, Camille Hartnett, a seasoned dog behaviourist.00:42 - Why Dog Training & Behaviour?Camille shares her jou...

25/02/2024

Understanding and Supporting Your Puppy's Sleep:

Ah, the world of puppy sleep – a topic that holds the key to your puppies happiness and well-being. Whether you have had dogs before or you may be embarking on your first puppy parenting journey, understanding your puppy's sleep patterns is crucial for fostering a healthy and harmonious relationship. So, let's explore why puppies need their rest and how you can ensure they get the sleep they need to thrive.

Why Do Puppies Need Sleep:

Physical and Mental Development: Sleep is essential for your puppy's growth and development. Just like human babies, puppies undergo rapid physical and mental changes during their early months, and sleep plays a vital role in supporting these processes.

Energy Restoration: Despite their boundless energy during waking hours, puppies need plenty of rest to recharge their batteries. Sleep helps replenish their energy reserves, ensuring they're ready for another day of play and exploration.

Behavioral Health: Adequate sleep is crucial for your puppy's emotional well-being. Just like us, tired puppies can become irritable, anxious, stressed, increased arousal levels, leading to behavioral issues if they don't get enough rest.

How Much Sleep is Normal for a Puppy?
You might be surprised to learn that puppies need a lot of sleep – we're talking upwards of 18 hours a day! But don't worry, this is perfectly normal and necessary for their development. Puppies typically sleep in short bursts throughout the day, with breaks for eating, playing, and potty breaks in between.

Signs Your Puppy Needs Sleep:

So, how do you know if your puppy needs some shut-eye? Look out for these signs:

Excessive biting or irritability
Difficulty concentrating or learning new cues
Over aroused or restlessness
Increased vocalisation or whining
Excessive napping during the day

Tips for Promoting Healthy Sleep:
Now that you understand the importance of puppy sleep, here are some practical tips for ensuring your puppy gets the rest they need:

Establish a Routine: Consistency is key when it comes to puppy sleep. Try to establish a regular bedtime and wake-up time for your puppy, as well as scheduled nap times throughout the day.

Create a Cozy Sleeping Area: Provide your puppy with a comfortable and inviting sleeping space, whether it's a crate, a bed, or a designated corner of the room. Make sure the area is free from distractions and noise.

Encourage Relaxation Before Bed: Help your puppy wind down before bedtime by engaging in calming activities such as relaxation and down time, cuddling, or a relaxing massage. Avoid stimulating activities or rough play that could disrupt their sleep.

Monitor Sleep Patterns: Keep an eye on your puppy's sleep patterns and adjust their routine as needed. If they're having trouble sleeping or showing signs of sleep deprivation, consult with your veterinarian for further guidance.

Mental Stimulation and Enrichment: In addition to providing a comfortable sleeping environment, it's essential to keep your puppy mentally stimulated and engaged during waking hours. Mental stimulation can include interactive play sessions, puzzle toys, training exercises, and exploring new environments. Incorporating activities that challenge your puppy's problem-solving skills and engage their senses can also help prevent boredom and reduce the likelihood of behavioral issues. Remember to balance mental stimulation with restful downtime to ensure your puppy gets the best of both worlds.

By prioritising your puppy's sleep and following these tips, you can help them grow into happy, healthy, and well-adjusted adult dogs.

Call now to connect with business.

24/02/2024

I wanted to take a moment to discuss something important: the use of aversive training tools in dog training. While it may seem like a quick fix, methods like electronic collars, prong collars and choke chains can actually do more harm than good. Research shows that these tools can lead to increased fear, stress, and anxiety in our dogs, not to mention physical harm like pain and burns. Instead, If you're interested in delving deeper into this topic and understanding why reward and evidence based training is the preferred approach, I encourage you to read our latest educational blog post By prioritising kindness and understanding in our training methods, we can create a happier and healthier environment for our pets. https://www.trailsniffers.com.au/blog/the-downfall-of-aversive-tools-in-dog-training-understanding-the-risks

In the world of dog training, there has been a longstanding debate over the use of aversive tools such as electronic collars (e-collars) and other punishment-based techniques. While these methods may promise quick results, they come with significant risks and negative consequences for dogs. In this

24/02/2024

Embarking on the journey of rescuing or rehoming a dog is a rewarding yet challenging experience. In our informative blog, we delve into the invaluable 3-3-3 Rule, a guideline that outlines the crucial phases of adjustment for your new dog within the first 3 days, 3 weeks, and 3 months. From overcoming initial overwhelm to building trust and routine, we provide practical tips and insights to help every day dog owners support their rescue dogs through this transformative period. Want to find out more follow the link to our blog https://www.trailsniffers.com.au/blog/navigating-the-3-3-3-rule-a-guide-for-new-dog-rescuers

09/02/2024

Great post from The Sophisticated Dog

Bottom line: Try to notice the whispers, so your dog doesn’t have to shout!

27/01/2024

One of the greatest things I have learned whilst on my journey with Jeffrey is to provide him with the safe space and opportunities to have more freedom and to make choices. Recognising that his time with us is limited, I believe it's crucial to prioritise his well-being over rigid rules and expectations that bring neither him nor myself joy. Jeffrey flourishes when he has the autonomy to make choices, engage, and explore his surroundings. I've witnessed firsthand the positive impact this has on his overall happiness as well as his physical and mental well-being.

I have never liked the word "disobedient." Labelling Jeffrey (or any dog) as disobedient for indulging in simple pleasures like rolling in a muddy puddle overlooks the profound joy these activities bring him. I've learned to appreciate these moments as opportunities for Jeffrey to express his individuality and engage with the world around him. It's a reminder that his happiness should be prioritised over conforming to strict expectations.

Understanding that Jeffrey's time with us is relatively short emphasises the urgency of maximising the quality of his experiences. Rather than focusing on obedience, I've found immense fulfilment in sharing in the sheer delight of his curiosity and playful antics.

Remember, muddy paws can be wiped, and smelly dogs can be washed, and dirty cars can be cleaned, but time spent being angry and frustrated can not be replaced. Here's to embracing the messy, joyful moments with our dogs – after all, the best memories are often made with a bit of mud and a lot of love. Have fun with your dog!

long line discount code: TRAILSNIFFERS

17/01/2024

Conditioned responses play a very important ole in shaping learned behaviours through classical conditioning. A conditioned response is essentially a learned reaction to a previously neutral stimulus. This process involves associating a neutral stimulus with another stimulus that naturally elicits a response. For instance, when training a dog, a neutral stimulus like a clicker might be paired with the automatic response triggered by a treat. Through repeated pairings, the once neutral clicker becomes a conditioned stimulus, and the response to that clicker, now associated with the treat, becomes the conditioned response.

Understanding this mechanism is crucial when using classical conditioning to teach new behaviours to dogs. By strategically pairing a neutral stimulus with a desirable outcome, such as a reward, owners/guardians can shape their dogs' responses over time. This process is effective in fostering positive behaviours and can be particularly useful in addressing specific issues, such as reactivity, by reshaping the associations dogs have with certain stimuli.

02/01/2024

Behaviour, a crucial aspect of dog training, involves a three-part contingency known as Antecedent-Behaviour-Consequence (ABC). Let's break it down to better comprehend how this concept shapes our dogs' actions.

**Antecedent:** The first component of the ABC model is the antecedent, referring to what happens right before a behaviour occurs. Antecedents act as triggers or cues, prompting your dog to engage in a specific action. Understanding and identifying these cues are key to effective dog training. For instance, if your dog starts barking when the doorbell rings, the doorbell serves as the antecedent in this scenario.

**Behaviour:** The behaviour is the central element of the ABC model, encompassing the actions and reactions displayed by your dog in response to the antecedent. Whether it's sitting, barking, or fetching, recognising and defining the behaviour is fundamental to addressing and modifying it. By focusing on the "why" behind the behaviour itself, we can tailor our training techniques to encourage positive actions and set our dogs up for success.

**Consequence:** The final part of the ABC model is the consequence, representing what happens right after the behaviour occurs. Consequences can either reinforce or discourage a behaviour. Positive consequences, such as treats or praise, strengthen the likelihood of the behaviour being repeated. On the other hand, negative consequences, like ignoring the behaviour, can deter its recurrence. Consistent and appropriate consequences play a pivotal role in shaping your dog's responses to various situations.

Understanding the ABC (Antecedent-Behaviour-Consequence) model benefits dog guardians by improving communication, providing insights into behaviour, and enabling effective consequence management. Consistency in applying this model creates a predictable training environment, enhances problem-solving skills, and strengthens the bond between guardians and their dogs. Overall, it enriches the training experience, fostering positive interactions and a harmonious relationship.

28/12/2023

As we approach the end of the year, I want to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the wonderful dog guardians who have entrusted Trail Sniffers with the care and behavioral support of their dogs. It has been an incredible privilege, and I am truly thankful for the trust and support you have shown. Reflecting on the past year, I am filled with joy seeing the progress and growth in your relationship with your dogs and the amazing strides you have made together. Your advocacy and dedication to their well-being have been truly inspiring. As we look forward to the new year, I am excited to continue our work together and make an even greater impact on the lives of both dog guardians and dogs. Thank you for being a part of Trail Sniffers. Wishing you and your dogs a wonderful end to the year and a paws-itively amazing start to the new one.

18/12/2023

Looking for ways to enrich your dogs mind this Christmas? Here are a few Christmas-themed enrichment activities designed for your dogs. Rememebr to always keep a watchful eye on your dog, especially during activities involving tearing wrapping paper.

Try to tailor fulfilling your dogs natural inate needs, such as: Sniffing, Foraging, Chewing, Shredding, Digging, Licking ect

1) Snuffle Wrapping Paper: Utilise leftover scraps of wrapping paper by hiding treats within. For a more contained snuffling experience, place the paper in empty cardboard boxes to create a snuffle box.

2)Christmas Destruction Box Present: Fill unused boxes with treats, allowing your dog to unleash their destructive instincts. This not only entertains your dog but also helps in recycling the leftover boxes.

3)Lucky Dip: Prepare several smaller boxes filled with surprises, treats, toys, or wrapping paper. Place these boxes inside a larger one to create a lucky dip. Multiple dogs can enjoy this activity simultaneously.

4)Christmas Treat Hunt: Incorporate a daily treat hunt by hiding goodies around the house.

5)Pass the Parcel: Wrap a toy (does not have to be new, wrap up an old Favorite) or special treat in layers, scattering treats between them. Either join in with music or let your pup independently unwrap the layers, creating a canine version of the classic game.

6)Christmas Obstacle Course: Tailor an obstacle course based on your dog's size, age, and abilities. Use household items like wrapping paper poles, chairs, boxes, and tunnels to create an engaging course. Time your dog's progress for added fun.

7)Chase the North Pole: Introduce a flirt pole, either purchased or handmade, to engage your dog in a chasing game. Use enticing objects like one of their favorite stuffed toys, an old dock, fleece fabric or items or scrunched-up wrapping paper as lures.

8)Muffin Tins and Wrapping Balls: Place treats in muffin tins, cover them with wrapping paper, and let your dog figure out how to uncover the treats. This holiday twist adds excitement to a classic enrichment game.

9)Wrapping Presents and Santa Paws Sack: Wrap your dog's presents and place them in a large sack or stocking. Let your dog explore and pull out their gifts. This interactive experience brings a unique and playful element to Christmas morning.