Dog Nose Best

20/02/2024

Puppy classes! Starting next Wednesday, Feb 28th, 6:30pm, 4 weeks long.
Build the relationship with your puppy and get off on the right paw! Classes are taught by Certified Professional Dog Trainer, certified Search & Rescue dog handler, and working on her MSc in Clinical Animal Behaviour. All classes taught Force Free and focus on manners, but more importantly building the bond between you and your puppy and establishing a strong foundation.
Don't miss out on these great classes!

Puppy classes start Wednesday, Feburary 28th at 6:30pm located at PlayUnleashed. *Classes are 4 weeks long and run for 50mins each* Our puppy kindergarten class will teach your puppy all the basic cues needed to grow into a well behaved member of your family. Your puppy will learn sit, down, stay, c...

18/02/2024

This hits me in the feels, hard

17/02/2024

How may of you out there feel the same about your pets? ❤🐾🐕

17/02/2024

Puppy farming, often including any large breeding establishment is a practice deeply marred by ethical concerns.

These establishments often prioritise profit over the health and well-being of the dogs. The conditions in many puppy farms are deplorable, with dogs kept in cramped, unsanitary environments, receiving minimal to no veterinary care, and often suffering from a range of health issues and psychological distress.

This lack of empathy and welfare in puppy farming starkly contrasts with responsible breeding practices, where the health and well-being of the dogs are paramount. Responsible breeders invest in the health of their breeding dogs and their litters, ensuring they receive appropriate veterinary care, nutrition, socialisation, and living conditions. They breed dogs with a focus on eliminating genetic health problems, rather than perpetuating or exacerbating them for the sake of specific physical traits that might be currently fashionable but detrimental to the dog's health.

In puppy farms, dogs are often bred relentlessly, with little to no recovery time between litters, leading to severe physical and mental exhaustion. The puppies produced in these conditions frequently suffer from health and behavioural problems, a direct result of the unethical breeding practices and lack of early socialisation and care.

Furthermore, puppy farming contributes to a broader ethical problem by encouraging the commodification of animals. Dogs are treated as products for sale rather than sentient beings deserving of care and respect. This perspective is fundamentally at odds with principles of animal welfare and ethics, which emphasise the intrinsic value of animals and their right to a life free from suffering and exploitation.

Responsible breeding, on the other hand, aligns with these principles. It involves a commitment to the health and welfare of the dogs and a respect for their natural behaviours and needs. This approach not only results in healthier and happier dogs but also promotes a more ethical and empathetic society where the well-being of animals is a central concern.

𝐈𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐩𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐟𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐯𝐞𝐬 𝐯𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐤𝐞𝐲 𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐬:

𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭: Ethical breeders are typically very involved, knowledgeable about the breed, and eager to discuss their breeding practices. They often question potential owners to ensure a suitable match.

𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬: Responsible breeders provide comprehensive health records for their puppies, including vaccinations, genetic testing, and veterinary care history.

𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: Puppies bred ethically are raised in clean, spacious, and stimulating environments. Conversely, puppy farms often have overcrowded and unsanitary conditions.

𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐕𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠: Reputable breeders usually allow you to meet the puppy’s parents and observe their temperament, a rarity with puppy farms.

𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐁𝐞𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐫: Ethically bred puppies are generally well-socialised, exhibiting less fear and aggression compared to those from puppy farms.

𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲: Ethical breeders do not overbreed their dogs, having limited litters to ensure the health of the mother and puppies.

𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐬: Seek transparency in operations and positive reviews or testimonials from previous buyers.

𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: Ethical breeders are driven by improving the breed, not by making a profit.

𝐀𝐟𝐭𝐞𝐫-𝐬𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭: Responsible breeders offer support and advice after you take your puppy home.

𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐀𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: Often, ethical breeders are affiliated with breed clubs or certified by relevant organisations.

The stark contrast between the unethical practices of puppy farming and the ethical approach of responsible breeding highlights the need for a shift in how society views and treats dogs. It underscores the importance of prioritising animal welfare and health over financial gain, fostering a culture of empathy, respect, and responsibility towards our canine companions.

17/02/2024

How many times have you seen dogs punished and blamed for telling the people around them that they don't feel safe?

It's like a gut punch isn't it.

17/02/2024

I simply can't comprehend the debate on whether dog trainers should be able to use electric collars on dogs.

They are a shortcut.
They don't consider how the dog feels.
They compromise welfare.
They scare dogs.
They cause anxiety.
They hurt.
They break trust.
They are not ethical.

When you see a dog trainer advocating the use of shock collars, remember this:

They negate the need for novice and less educated dog trainers to upgrade their skills.

Therein lies the conflict of interest.

17/02/2024

15/02/2024

Dogs, much like humans, have unique cognitive processes that dictate how they learn and understand their environment. When we're teaching or training them, it's essential to recognise and respect these processes. Here are some reasons why dogs need time to process information when they are learning:

Brain Function:

Just as in humans, when a dog learns something new, there are neural connections being formed in their brain. This process, known as neuroplasticity, takes time. Pushing them too quickly can prevent these connections from solidifying, leading to confusion and lack of retention.

Stress Levels:

Overwhelming a dog with too much information or too rapid a progression in lessons can raise their stress levels. Stress can inhibit a dog's ability to learn because it activates the 'fight or flight' response, redirecting their focus away from the lesson at hand.

Memory Consolidation:

After learning, memory consolidation takes place during rest periods. It's during this time that short-term memories transfer to long-term storage. Without adequate downtime, a dog might not retain what they've learned.

Building Confidence:

Learning at a comfortable pace helps to build a dog's confidence. If they are pushed too quickly, they can become uncertain and apprehensive. Positive experiences and successes, no matter how small, contribute significantly to their self-assurance.

Individual Learning Rates:

Every dog has its own unique learning rate, influenced by factors such as age, breed, past experiences, and individual temperament. Some may grasp concepts quickly, while others might need more repetition and time.

Avoiding Negative Associations:

If a dog feels rushed or pressured during training, they might associate that negative feeling with the training itself or with the trainer. This can lead to resistance in future sessions or even behavioural problems.

Quality Over Quantity:

It's far more beneficial for a dog to understand and master a single command or action thoroughly than to have a vague understanding of many. Taking the time to ensure that each lesson is comprehended fully will lead to a stronger foundation for future learning.

So my friends, patience is key when teaching our canine companions. Respecting their natural learning processes ensures that they have a positive and successful educational experience. Just as with humans, the quality of learning and understanding is more important than the speed at which content is covered.

15/02/2024

Don't forget to keep your Valentines chocolates out of the reach of your pets this week! 🍫🚫🐶

Credit - BC SPCA (BCSPCA)

15/02/2024

Understanding canine body language is essential for ethical guardianship of dogs. Guardians must interpret their dog's emotions and needs accurately, ensuring empathetic and responsive care. Recognising signs of discomfort or stress enables timely intervention, improving the dog's welfare and strengthening the bond based on mutual respect and compassion.

13/02/2024

Let’s shift our perspective from “my dog knows better” to “my dog needs support to get things right.”

05/02/2024

Welfare isn't an afterthought with dog training, it's the crux of the matter.

We see way too many dogs on social channels, who have been 'trained' with methods that not only compromise their welfare but sometimes even smash it to smithereens.

Let's not just change their responses, let's respect dogs enough to work out why they respond in the way they do.

05/02/2024

4 reasons why punishment should be avoided - according to neuroscience 🧠

❤️‍🩹 Neuroplasticity: Recent studies in neuroscience have emphasized the importance of neuroplasticity in learning. Positive reinforcement can effectively shape behavior by reinforcing desirable neural pathways, rather than relying on punishment which does not directly promote the formation of these beneficial connections.

❤️‍🩹 Stress on the Brain: Research has shown that stress and anxiety can have a significant negative impact on brain function and learning. Punishment in dog training can induce stress, potentially impairing the dog's ability to learn and form positive associations with training. This is in line with the understanding that a stressed brain is less capable of effective learning and memory formation, as indicated by recent neuroscience findings.

❤️‍🩹 Dopamine in Learning: Dopamine, a neurotransmitter, plays a critical role in the reward and motivation systems of the brain. Positive reinforcement in dog training can increase dopamine release, which enhances the dog's motivation and pleasure in learning. Punishment does not engage the reward system in the same way, underscoring the efficacy of positive reinforcement.

❤️‍🩹 Cognitive and Emotional Effects: Emerging research also highlights the complex cognitive and emotional responses animals have to different stimuli. Punishment has been identified as more likely to lead to fear, anxiety, and aggression - all of which are not conducive to learning. In contrast, training methods that focus on positive reinforcement can foster a more positive emotional state, facilitating better learning and stronger bonds between the dog and guardian.

Modern neuroscience research supports the notion that punishment is not necessary in dog training. Instead, it advocates for methods that leverage the brain's capacity for neuroplasticity, engage the reward system, and create a positive learning environment. These approaches are more aligned with how the brain learns and adapts, leading to more effective and humane training practices.

ℹ️ Follow .plus.dogs for more modern, evidence based advice on dogs

01/02/2024

01/02/2024

In traditional dog training, punishment is often used to discourage undesirable behaviours. This can include physical corrections such as leash jerks, alpha rolls, or even the use of choke or prong collars. The aim is to establish the trainer's dominance and control over the dog.

Traditional training methods often focus on correcting or suppressing behaviours that are deemed undesirable, rather than teaching the dog alternative behaviours or reinforcing positive ones. The primary goal is obedience and compliance, rather than considering the emotional well-being or natural instincts of the dog.

Moreover, traditional training may not prioritise building a strong bond and trust between the dog and the trainer. Instead, it is more focused on establishing a hierarchical dominance structure, with the trainer at the top.

It is important to note that the views on traditional training are evolving, and there is a growing understanding and shift towards more ethical and humane training approaches that prioritise positive reinforcement and consider the dog's welfare as a whole.

Ethical dog training encompasses much more than teaching behaviour change. It involves understanding a dog's natural behaviours and instincts, and using cues to communicate effectively. This type of training places a strong emphasis on meeting the dog's needs, ensuring their emotional well-being is prioritised throughout the process.

Ethical dog training recognises that teaching new behaviour options is just one aspect of a broader approach to dog care. It takes into account the dog's overall well-being and fosters a positive and respectful relationship between trainer and dog. By understanding the dog's needs, ethical training aims to meet them through a combination of physical exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction.

In ethical dog training, the trainer is aware that a dog's behaviour is often a result of their environment, genetics, and past experiences. Rather than attempting to suppress or control these behaviours, ethical training works with the dog's natural instincts and focuses on positively reinforcing desired behaviours. This ensures that the dog is not subjected to unnecessary stress or harm.

Overall, ethical dog training in the UK combines the use of cues to effectively communicate with the dog, along with a comprehensive understanding of the dog's needs. By considering the bigger picture of a dog's well-being, ethical training aims to create a harmonious and trusting relationship between trainer and dog.

If you're an ethical dog trainer, join NICE - we are your people. https://www.nicemembership.com/cpd-membership

01/02/2024

Yes, a swift resolution to a behavioural problem might be appealing!

It's natural to want immediate results when dealing with a challenging habit.

However, these rapid solutions can often be risky and potentially detrimental to your dog's wellbeing. The reasoning behind this is multifold.

Firstly, quick fixes tend to focus on suppressing the symptoms of a problem rather than tackling its root cause.

For example, a dog barking excessively could be displaying signs of fear, anxiety, or boredom. A quick fix might involve using a device to deter barking, but this doesn't help the dog cope with the underlying emotions causing the barking. The problem is likely to persist or manifest in another, potentially more harmful behaviour.

Secondly, many quick-fix solutions rely on punishment or negative reinforcement.

These methods might produce an immediate response, but they also risk instilling fear or anxiety in your dog. In the long term, this can lead to a breakdown in trust and a negative impact on your relationship with your dog.

Thirdly, quick fixes don't educate your dog about the correct behaviour.

They merely suppress the undesirable one. A more ethical and effective approach is to use positive reinforcement to reward good behaviour, helping the dog to understand what is expected of them. This does require more time and patience, but it's a more sustainable solution that improves your dog's overall behaviour and strengthens your bond.

Lastly, quick fixes can sometimes backfire and exacerbate the issue.

For example, a dog that's punished for barking at visitors might start to associate visitors with the punishment and become more fearful or aggressive.

In a nutshell, quick-fix behavioural changes are risky because they overlook the underlying issues, rely heavily on negative reinforcement, fail to teach the dog about the correct behaviour, and can even worsen the problem.

Even the smallest amount of ethical learning will make you a better dog trainer and advocate for your dog than employing a quick fix punisher.

Want to learn how - comment below!

31/01/2024

💡Understanding your dog's threshold is crucial in managing their reactivity and anxiety levels. It helps you determine the optimal distance or intensity at which to expose your dog to triggers that cause their reactivity during behaviour modification exercises. By keeping your dog emotionally below ‘threshold’, you can create a more controlled and comfortable environment for your dog, allowing them to remain calm and responsive.

When the concept of “going over threshold” is brought up, people often envision a dog barking, snarling, or displaying aggressive behaviour. However, it is important to recognise that “going over threshold” means crossing over into an emotionally distressed state, which may manifest as shutting down, freezing, exhibiting overly excitable behaviour, or becoming so distracted that there is a loss of connection.

⚖️Pushing a dog beyond their comfort zone (threshold) can lead to heightened anxiety, fear, and potentially aggressive behaviour. It is essential to respect and work within their threshold levels to ensure their emotional well-being which in turn will help facilitate effective training and behaviour modification.

When a dog is over threshold, they are primarily reacting rather than thinking – they are in a fight-flight, freeze, fidget, or fawn state. Their emotional and physiological responses are heightened, making it difficult for them to ‘listen’ or respond to cue’s. They may be too overwhelmed or focused on the perceived threat to process information effectively.

Through systematic desensitization (gradual exposure therapy), and counter-conditioning (changing an emotional response) techniques, you can help raise your dog's tolerance levels towards a stimulus that causes emotional distress over time. By carefully managing their exposure to triggers and pairing it with positive experiences and rewards, you can help them develop more resilience and confidence, allowing them to handle challenging situations with greater ease.

Mardi Richmond MA, CPDT-KA describes it as: -
“Consider the threshold of a front door. When you cross a threshold, you move from one space to another. A behaviour threshold is a similar concept; it is when your dog crosses from one emotional state to another. If you spend time with a dog that is concerned about other dogs, you have probably witnessed the moment when he or she moves from seemingly okay into out-of-control behaviour. That is going over threshold.”

When a dog is over threshold, teaching them new behaviours or trying to modify their behaviour becomes challenging and would be inappropriate to do at that moment in time as they are not in the right frame of mind for learning to take place. Their heightened state makes it difficult for them to learn and retain new information. It is important to bring the dog back to a ‘sub-threshold’ state before attempting any training or behaviour modification.

✏️Furthermore, thresholds are not fixed and can fluctuate. Unlike physical thresholds like a front door, emotional and behavioural thresholds can fluctuate depending on various factors. These factors include the dog's current state of arousal, the environment, previous experiences, and the specific trigger or stimulus.
Having awareness of the dog's threshold levels and being vigilant in their behaviour and responses is crucial for effective management and training.

Adjusting the distance, intensity, or duration of exposure to triggers based on the dog's threshold can help create a more conducive learning environment and prevent the dog from becoming over threshold.

31/01/2024

An assumption is a belief or statement accepted as true without proof or evidence. It's an idea that is taken for granted and presumed to be correct based on perceived common sense, past experiences, or general consensus, even though it may not have been verified or tested. Assumptions can influence understanding and decision-making processes in various contexts.

Let's make educated assessments as dog professionals, not assumptions.

Start with your free course here https://www.canineprinciples.com/free-online-dog-course

28/01/2024

Ethical practices in canine professions, at their core, are guided by the principles of respect, empathy, and care towards the well-being of dogs. They encompass considerations like ensuring good physical health, promoting psychological well-being, respecting the dog's natural behaviour, and advocating for their rights.

25/01/2024

Anthropomorphism, attributing human characteristics to dogs, can aid in understanding their needs, as our brain areas and emotions are remarkably similar. Recognising shared feelings like joy or anxiety fosters empathy, helping us relate to and effectively address their emotional and psychological needs, strengthening the human-dog bond and dog welfare.

25/01/2024

25/01/2024

Steer clear of dog trainers promising guaranteed results; such claims often lack empathy and a deep understanding of canine behavior. Dogs are individuals, and training outcomes can't be assured. This approach often overlooks a dog's emotional needs and may rely on outdated or harmful methods, lacking in proper education and respect for the dog's well-being.

25/01/2024

Choosing the right dog walker for your four-legged companion requires careful consideration. You want someone who not only enjoys spending time with dogs, but also follows high ethical standards. Here are the key factors you should consider ensuring that you're entrusting your canine friend to an ethical dog walker:

Understanding Your Dog's Unique Needs:

A considerate dog walker understands that every dog is an individual, with their own temperament, physical abilities, and personal comfort zones. They should be prepared to adapt their approach to suit your dog's specific needs, considering things like walking pace, distance, and any behavioural tendencies.

Considerate Group Sizes:

An ethical dog walker will limit the number of dogs they walk at the same time. This shows their commitment to offering each dog the attention and care they require, placing the welfare of the dogs above the potential to earn more by walking larger groups.

Commitment to Safety:

Look for a dog walker who prioritises safety. They should use suitable and secure equipment, such as robust leads and secure harnesses. Additionally, they should assure you that your dog will be safely fastened during transport and that they always follow road rules. The presence of a first aid kit is also a good indicator of their preparedness for emergencies.

Professionalism and Honesty:

A professional dog walker should maintain transparency with their clients. This means they're willing to discuss any incidents or issues that occur during the walk. They should also be clear about their services, fees, and any changes to schedules or plans.

Up-to-Date Canine Knowledge:

A responsible dog walker should keep updating their knowledge about dog behaviour, health concerns, breed-specific traits, and the latest developments in their field. This ongoing commitment to learning reflects their dedication to their profession and ability to provide optimal care for your dog.

By using these guidelines, you can find an ethical dog walker who not only provides a professional service but also genuinely cares for the well-being of your dog.