Paws Positive Dog Training

31/08/2024

Either you’re OK using methods and equipment when working with dogs that cause pain fear and purposeful discomfort, or you’re not. Victoria Stilwell

I am not!!

26/08/2024

**📢 Important Update: New Pet Abduction Law in the UK! 🐾**

Hello, lovely Paws 4 A Break family!

We wanted to share some crucial news that affects all of us as pet owners and lovers. A new law has just come into force in the UK, making pet abduction a specific criminal offence. This is a huge step forward in recognising our pets not just as property, but as beloved family members.

Here’s what you need to know:

🔐 **Stronger Legal Protection**: The new law acknowledges the emotional distress that pet abduction causes to both the pet and their family, and will impose tougher penalties on those found guilty.

🚨 **Increased Awareness**: This law aims to deter would-be thieves, highlighting that stealing a pet is a serious crime with severe consequences.

👀 **Stay Vigilant**: While this law is a positive step, it’s still important to remain vigilant. Ensure your pet’s microchip details are up to date, and consider adding additional security measures like collars with GPS tracking.

At Paws 4 A Break, your pets' safety and well-being are always our top priority. We're committed to keeping our community informed and prepared. If you have any questions or need advice on keeping your pet safe, don't hesitate to reach out.

Let’s work together to ensure our furry friends stay safe and sound! 🐕🐈

Take care and stay safe,
The Paws 4 A Break Team ❤️

23/08/2024

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📣Calling all puppy parents! 📣

Our friends at Tug-E-Nuff have a BRAND NEW phenomenal puppy play guide and you can get your paws on it for free!

Here’s what’s inside:

🐾 Why play is so important for puppies
🐾 How to play with your puppy (& how long for!)
🐾 The dos and don’ts of puppy play (to save you from mistakes)
🐾 How to find the right toys for your puppy

🙌 3 bonus games your puppy will love

Simply hit the link below and get your free phenomenal puppy play guide here 👇

Packed with our top tips for introducing play, a run down of why play is so important & an unmissable offer

17/08/2024

Is a game of tug with your dog good or bad ?

Tug of War is an excellent game for both you and your dog, providing a range of benefits that go beyond just physical play. When played properly, it’s much more than a simple tugging match; it’s a dynamic interaction that can significantly strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend.

Firstly, Tug of War is brilliant for building a strong relationship between you and your dog. Through this interactive play, your dog learns to trust you and understands that you’re a source of fun and positive experiences. This kind of play can be particularly beneficial for puppies as it helps them to see you as a trusted companion and leader.

Incorporating cues like "leave it" into the game also teaches impulse control. By practising these cues in an exciting, high-energy situation, your dog learns to manage their impulses, even when they’re really revved up. This can translate into better behaviour in other situations, as your dog learns that listening to you pays off.

Physically, Tug of War is a fantastic way for your dog to burn off energy. It’s a controlled form of exercise that can be tailored to suit your dog’s energy levels, making it ideal for everything from a quick burst of play to a more extended session.

Mentally, Tug of War is surprisingly stimulating. Your dog isn’t just pulling on a rope; they’re figuring out how to win, how to follow your cues, and how to engage with you in a way that keeps the game going. This mental engagement is just as important as physical exercise, keeping your dog’s mind sharp and active.

Now, let’s tackle the myth that Tug of War can make your dog aggressive. This misconception likely stems from the game’s appearance: a dog growling and tugging might look a bit intense. However, when played with clear rules and boundaries, Tug of War is actually a great way to teach your dog to play cooperatively. They learn to listen to your cues, to take breaks when told, and to engage in a way that’s both fun and safe. Far from fostering aggression, it teaches your dog to manage their excitement and to respond to you, even when they’re highly stimulated.

In summary, Tug of War is a safe, constructive way to engage with your dog that provides physical exercise, mental stimulation, and valuable lessons in impulse control. It’s a myth that this game makes dogs aggressive—when played correctly, it’s a powerful tool for strengthening your relationship with your dog.

10/08/2024

Week 5 Saturday puppy Lifeskills class

It was a hard class today, this week always is.

A warm welcome to Chief the WCS puppy and his parents to class today. Your main training task this week is to build up motivation with food by animating it and playing around with different values.

Homework for this week is to really work on all 3 positions and on the boundaries as well. Also making sure you put a lot of training in around doors and gates.. this can save your dog’s life

Notes from this week

Vehicle management ..coming out of the car. Sometimes take them out in the car and don’t get them out so they are not always predicting car stopping means exciting or scary event, maybe sometimes drive, sit in car read a book or magazine and drive home, mix it up. Practise going in and out of the car in a calm manner and Scatter feed when coming out of car to prevent your dog just pulling you as soon as they get out of the car, whilst you may have to get your coat on, get your bag etc.

Rule 57 of the highway code states When in a vehicle make sure dogs or other animals are suitably restrained so they cannot distract you while you are driving or injure you, or themselves, if you stop quickly. A seat belt harness, pet carrier, dog cage or dog guard are ways of restraining animals in cars.I suggest you make sure any equipment you buy as been crash tested. Not only do you face a huge fine,of up to £5000 you also risk getting nine points on your licence and even a driving ban with a compulsory retest.

Boundaries ..starting to drop food on the floor from a low height at first moving to a height similar to a work surface Then move to your dog being off the boundary. Remember sometimes give them the food on the floor or give them permission to get it( ideally eventually this would be after checking in with us ) and sometimes they can’t have it but a reward comes from you instead. Work on the 3 D’s Distance Duration and Distraction. Ask me about these next week.

Gate and door control …ask for a sit if you like but not compulsory and waiting for you to walk out first, then calling your dog to come through. Your aim is to be able to walk out the door, through the gate into the entrance of the field and scan the environment, checking its safe before calling dog through.
This really helps with loose lead walking, reactivity on the lead and focus on you.
Entrances whether that be an opening to a field, a door to a training hall or a gate to an outside area these are all trouble spots for dogs and where you see the most reactivity so prepare yourself for this and keep your dog focussed as you enter. Try this on all gates doors entrances etc but remember safety first.

Sit …moving on to a sit means sit until released. Always finish with an ending so let’s go or break.

Down .. duration down feed between the legs and release or ask for another position creating a behaviour chain. Remember there are 3 ways to teach a down, luring from nose to floor and then moving treat between legs or away from them on the floor slowly. Mark as soon as the body touches floor and reward between legs. Keep rewarding in olace for a duration down and remember that finish. The second way is to make a bridge with your legs or piece of furniture low enough that your dog as to lie down to get under it( remember on both of these methods don’t add the cue “down” until the dog is dropping consistently and then start to make the bridge higher until you can eventually remove it and the third method is to capture the position naturally add the cue mark and reward.

Stand .. lure the dog with a treat on the nose moving your hand in a straight line forward, when the dog is standing mark with a nice and reward. Eventually add the cue “stand” before beginning the lure eventually you should see your dog move into stand on the verbal cue alone.
Then finally you can start to practise behaviour chains but not always sit down stand, mix them up.

See you all next week

06/08/2024

8-Week Puppy Lifeskills Course

**Exciting news! Our 8-week Puppy Lifeskills course has spaces available, and you can start any Saturday that suits you. No more waiting for the next course to begin!**

**Is this course for you?**

- Have you got a new puppy?
- Is your dog feeling a bit bored?
- Do you want to have more fun with your dog?
- Looking to build a stronger bond with your pup?
- Want to boost your dog's confidence?
- Dreaming of enjoyable, stress-free walks?
- Does the environment seem more interesting to your dog than you?
- Does your puppy get easily overstimulated?
- Struggling with a puppy that never seems to switch off?
- Is your dog ignoring you when off the lead?
- Lacking impulse control in your pup?
- Dealing with mouthing, chasing, or nipping?
- Is your puppy jumping up on you and guests?
- Want to give your puppy the best start to prevent future struggles?
- Looking to correctly socialise your puppy?

**If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, our fun and effective puppy class is perfect for you!**

**Course Details:**

- **Flexible Start:** Begin any Saturday, subject to availability.
- **Time:** 9am - early enough to start your day right and still enjoy your weekend.
- **Limited Spaces:** We keep our classes small to ensure everyone gets the attention they need.
- **Positive Training:** All sessions are ethical, reward-based, and designed for you and your dog to have fun. No aversives, just positive reinforcement.

**Why Choose Us?**

- **Top Award-Winning Company:** Train with the best!
- **Expert Guidance:** Benefit from our knowledgeable, supportive trainers.
- **Comprehensive Curriculum:** Everything you need to set your puppy up for success.

**How to Book:**

- **Call:** 07885520818
- **Message:** Send your email address for further details and a booking form.
- **Email:** Provide your contact information to secure your spot. [email protected]

Check out our photos to see the fantastic value included in this course. Don't miss out on the chance to give your puppy the best start in life. Book now and embark on this exciting journey with your furry friend!

28/07/2024

Absolutely delighted to announce that I've become a lifetime member of the Dog Training College! 🐾

This recognition reflects my unwavering dedication to lifelong learning and continuous personal development (CPD). I am also an approved trainer with the college and have specialised in many of their courses too.

I am committed to being the best I can be for my clients and every dog I have the privilege to work with. Here's to many more years of growth, knowledge, and improving the lives of our furry friends! 🐕❤️

Paws Positive Dog Training
Paws 4 A Break Pet Care Services
Paws 4 A Day School

Dog Training College

in

17/07/2024

I have had a couple of messages this week regarding people struggling to cope with the energy levels of their dogs and the chaos this can cause. So rather than reinvent the wheel I thought I would reshare a presentation I did on this very topic a few years ago. Hope it helps


A guide to help caregivers of high energy dogs.
Are you convinced your dog is a raving lunatic?
Having a dog with seemingly endless energy can be tiring and frustrating and overwhelming. But it can also be lots of fun and rewarding.
The trick is knowing how to take your dogs natural energy and channel it positively and productively.

13/07/2024

🌟 Looking for a Kind and Positive Dog Trainer? 🌟

If you're on the hunt for a professional dog trainer who uses positive reinforcement and kind training methods, look no further!

The Dog Trainer School Professional Standard Directory is your go-to resource for finding force free trainers in your local area.

Check it out today! 🐾❤️

https://www.thedogtrainerschool.co.uk/professionalstandard

09/07/2024

Training Tip Tuesday

Good morning, everyone!

This week, we're covering a fundamental topic: how to greet a new dog when you first meet them.

It’s a common sight – people extending their hands to introduce themselves to a dog. I’m not sure where this habit started, but it’s not helpful at all. In fact, it's quite the opposite.

Dogs possess an incredible sense of smell and don’t need you to stick your hand in their face for a proper introduction. Approaching a dog this way can actually be intimidating, especially for nervous dogs.

So, what should you do instead? Firstly, always ask the owner's permission before approaching their dog. They know their dog best and can give you valuable information about how to interact.

When you do get the go-ahead, stand still and let the dog come to you. Give them the chance to approach you on their own terms. If the dog backs away, that’s their polite way of saying they’re not comfortable yet, and that’s perfectly fine.

Body language is also crucial. Avoid facing the dog head-on, as this can be perceived as confrontational. Instead, turn your body slightly to the side and lower your posture. This approach is less intimidating for the dog and helps them feel more at ease. However, be cautious when dealing with potentially aggressive dogs. Crouching on the floor can put you in a vulnerable position, making it harder to react if the dog becomes aggressive.

In our training classes at Paws Positive Dog Training, we often encounter nervous pups. Watching how we greet them the right way can be quite enlightening – even seasoned dog owners are sometimes surprised by how much of a difference it makes.

Remember, this tip, while simple, can significantly reduce the chances of causing unnecessary stress to dogs you meet while out and about.

Happy training, and enjoy connecting with your furry friends in a positive and respectful manner!

Have a great week 😍
Jane and the Paws Positive Dog Training Team

07/07/2024

Hi everyone! I’m Jane, an accredited and qualified ethical trainer using reward-based methods, and today I’d love to share some tips on how to get your dog to focus on you.

This week in puppy class the lesson was on Focus. Focusing on you is crucial for your dog’s safety and your peace of mind, especially around distractions like other dogs, joggers, cyclists, children playing, and wildlife. Here are some fun, positive training games to help your dog keep their eyes on you:

•Name Game: Call your dog’s name and reward them with a treat or praise when they look at you.
•Hide and Seek: Hide somewhere in your home or garden, then call your dog and reward them when they find you.
•Follow the Leader: Walk around with your dog off-lead in a safe, enclosed area, rewarding them for staying close and paying attention to your movements.
•Look at That: This game involves rewarding your dog for looking at a distraction and then looking back at you. Start by having a distraction at a distance. When your dog looks at it, say “Yes!” and give them a treat when they look back at you. Gradually decrease the distance to the distraction over time.

Tips for success:

•Keep training sessions short and fun.
•Use high-value treats that your dog loves.
•Always use positive reinforcement and be patient.
. Rewards are not always food based
. Always set your dog up for success

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

•Repeating cues multiple times – say it once and wait.
•Training for too long – keep sessions brief to maintain your dog’s interest.

If you would like your dog to be able to focus on you around distractions, message me. Let’s make training a positive experience for both you and your furry friend!

07/07/2024

01/07/2024

01/07/2024

Spaces now available for immediate start

16/06/2024

The Importance of Play as a Reward in Puppy Training

Why Play Matters
Play is a fundamental part of a puppy’s development. Not only is it essential for their physical and mental health, but it also plays a crucial role in training. Using play as a reward can be incredibly effective for several reasons:

1. **Natural Motivation:** Puppies are naturally playful. Using play as a reward taps into their innate desires, making training sessions more enjoyable and motivating for them.
2. **Bonding:** Play strengthens the bond between you and your puppy. Positive interactions during play can reinforce your relationship, making your puppy more responsive to training.
3. **Energy Outlet:** Puppies have boundless energy. Incorporating play into training sessions helps to expend this energy in a constructive way, reducing the likelihood of destructive behaviour.
4. **Learning Through Fun:** Training through play can make learning new cues and behaviours a fun and enjoyable experience for your puppy. This positive association encourages quicker and more consistent learning.
5. **Socialisation:** Play often involves interaction with other dogs and people. This is critical for socialising your puppy, teaching them appropriate behaviour in various situations.

Types of Play as Rewards

1. **Play with Toys:** Discover which toys your puppy enjoys the most. This could be a squeaky toy, a ball, or a game of tug-of-war. Using these toys as rewards can be very motivating for your puppy.
2. **Play Using Treats:** Incorporate treats into play by using them in interactive toys or games. For example, hiding treats around the room for a game of “find it” can be both rewarding and mentally stimulating.
3. **Play Using Chase:** Many puppies love to chase. Engaging in a gentle game of chase, where your puppy follows you or a toy you’re moving, can be highly rewarding.
4. **Play Using Yourself:** Sometimes, the best toy is you! Engage in physical play like gentle wrestling or running around together. Your involvement can make the reward even more special.
5. **Play with Other Items:** Incorporate various household items into play. For instance, a cardboard box can become an exciting obstacle or hiding spot during a game.

How to Use Play as a Reward

1. **Identify Preferred Toys:** Discover which toys or types of play your puppy enjoys the most.
2. **Incorporate Play into Training Sessions:** Use short bursts of play as a reward for following cues or displaying desired behaviours. For instance, after a successful "sit" or "here," reward your puppy with a quick game of fetch.
3. **Timing is Key:** Ensure that the play reward is given immediately after the desired behaviour to create a clear connection between the cue and the reward.
4. **Keep it Short and Sweet:** Play sessions as rewards should be brief and energetic, just enough to reinforce the positive behaviour without causing your puppy to lose focus.
5. **Mix It Up:** Vary the types of play to keep things interesting and engaging for your puppy.

Benefits of Using Play as a Reward

1. **Enhanced Engagement:** Puppies are more likely to stay focused and engaged during training sessions when play is involved.
2. **Reduced Stress:** Play reduces stress and anxiety, making the training experience more positive for your puppy.
3. **Improved Retention:** Puppies are more likely to remember and repeat behaviours that are followed by a fun and rewarding experience.
4. **Physical Exercise:** Incorporating play into training provides necessary physical exercise, promoting overall health and well-being.
5. **Behavioural Benefits:** Playful rewards can help curb unwanted behaviours by providing a positive outlet for energy and excitement.

Conclusion

Integrating play into your puppy’s training routine is a powerful tool that enhances learning, strengthens your bond, and ensures your puppy grows into a well-behaved and happy dog. Remember, training should always be a positive and enjoyable experience for both you and your puppy.

Questions for Consideration

1. What specific toys or games does your puppy enjoy the most during playtime?
2. Have you noticed any particular times of day when your puppy is more energetic and playful?
3. How does your puppy typically react to different types of rewards (treats vs. play vs. praise)?
4. Are there any behaviours or cues that your puppy finds particularly challenging to learn?
5. How do you currently integrate play into your daily routine with your puppy?

07/06/2024

An article I put together for first time puppy owners on puppy biting, if your struggling with this behaviour take a look.

26/05/2024

Paws 4 A Day have openings for canine students!! 😁

We don’t often have availability but due to people moving homes or work commitment changes, a few have become available. So here is your chance for your dog to join our 5 star licensed daycare school.

If you need help with the care of your dog or they are bored or anxious to be left home alone , then call Paws 4 A Day for an assessment.

At Paws 4 A Day we don't want a daycare where the dogs run around all day long without any structure or routine as we know this isn't going to end well. You need a daycare with structure, a daycare where the dogs get to use their mind, a daycare that includes training, a daycare that offers enrichment, a daycare that offers correct socialisation with people, dogs, objects and novelty and a daycare where the dogs actually get to go for naps....yes, naps are important. ��There are a number of daycares in the South Yorkshire area but ask yourself how many offer the following:

• Events
•.Group Training
• School Trips
• Film days
• Agility equipment
• Balance Training
• Story time or Music time
• Themed weeks
• Enrichment activities
• Scent work
• Training individual
• Nap times
• School photos in your private students group
• School reports
• Qualified staff
• High staff to dog ratio
•.Cuddle time with staff & Volunteers

These are just some of the things we offer at our daycare, theres way too many to list all.

If you would like your dog to have fun whilst having the best of care from professional positive ethical qualified canine tutors then look no further than Paws 4 A Day and visit our website www.paws4adayschool.co.uk and complete an application form found in our welcome pack for daycare. You will then be invited for an assessment and a start date can be discussed.
Immediate starts can be arranged on a trial basis after successfully passing the assessment.

Contact us on 07885520818 or [email protected]

14/05/2024

Share if you agree 🥰🐾

11/05/2024

Some of today’s puppies in class working on the skill Focus

10/05/2024

Spaces becoming available on our rolling puppy lifeskills course you can start any Saturday and do your 8 weeks as long as there is availability.

No more waiting for the next course to start !!

Puppy Lifeskills course .. spaces available

Have you got a new puppy?

Do you have a dog that is bored?

Do you want to have fun with your dog?

Do you want to build a relationship with your dog?

Do you want to build your dogs confidence ?

Do you want to have enjoyable walks with your dog?

Does your dog find the environment more exciting than you ?

Have you a puppy who finds everything stimulating?
Does your dog not have an off switch ?

Does your dog have selective hearing ?

Does your dog choose not to come back to you when off lead?

Does your dog have no impulse control ?

Does your puppy mouth chase and nip you or your children ?

Is your puppy jumping up on you and your guests?

Do you want to just give your dog the best start in life to help prevent struggles in the future?

Do you want to correctly socialise your puppy ?

Don’t just rely on your friends neighbours or Dr googles advise

If any of these struggles or more apply to your dog we have a fun but effective puppy class where you choose your start date subject to availability. They are at 9am on a Saturday, we start them early so you can still enjoy your weekend.

Spaces are limited due to us choosing to keep classes small so that you all get the attention you need to succeed.

All training is positive ethical and reward based so no aversives are used in the sessions and the only rule is for everyone including your dog to have Fun.

To have the chance to train with this top award winning company book now by sending me your email address or giving me a call on 07885520818 to discuss further or send me a message containing your email address for further details and a booking form.

Look on the photos to see what’s included its fantastic value ⭐️

04/05/2024

Some of our lovely pupsters working on their lifeskills today whilst having fun 💙💜

07/04/2024

Please be responsible and keep your dogs on lead around livestock even more important at the moment with it being lambing season.

Full incident can be seen on our latest lambing Vlog over on YouTube.

Link here:
https://youtu.be/RzVJdz1s7n8

03/04/2024

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Put some oomph in your play with 15% off my favourite toys.

Tug-E-Nuff toys are my absolute go-tos for play, training and maximum FUN. 🙌

Their toys are certified oomph-tastic and I’m not the only one who thinks so! They’re recommended by thousands of trainers worldwide and given a big paws of approval from dogs everywhere. 🐾

Just hit the link below to snap up 15% off any two toys and tell your dog good things are coming!

Let the spring play commence!

Get the latest official Tug-E-Nuff discounts and special offers and swoop up oomph-tastic toys your dog will go wild for.

29/03/2024

Easter is just around the corner so here is a few tips for keeping your pets safe during this time.

26/03/2024

Remember to Spring Forward this weekend.

In the UK the clocks go forward 1 hour at 1am on 31st March 24
The period when the clocks are 1 hour ahead is called British Summer Time (BST). There’s more daylight in the evenings and less in the mornings (sometimes called Daylight Saving Time).

Does the clock change affects our dogs and if so, how?

Some people find their bodies and minds impacted by the time change, it’s called the Circadian Rhythm and it’s governed by sunlight and our dogs may be impacted as well. As humans, we know the time change is coming and we prepare for it. Our dogs, who are creatures of habit, don’t have the capacity for pre-planning for time changes. They are use to eating their dinner and going for walks at specific times and going to bed and getting up on a routine schedule.

Whilst gaining an hour of daylight is great for both us and our dogs, it can disrupt routines and cause some unforeseen sudden stress for our dogs. Here are some things to bear in mind:

⏰ Feeding : some dogs may appear off their food if they are being fed an hour ahead of schedule. Maybe try making small adjustments in the week leading up to the clock change.
⏰ Toileting opportunities: If dogs have periods by themselves during the day, such as when you’re at work, they may rely on us more heavily during the transition, to ensure they don't have any accidents inside.
⏰ Exercise: Lighter mornings = earlier walks and plenty of opportunity (for dogs) to ‘do their business’ and settle down for the day. Don’t forget, this also means earlier nights, which can be confusing for our dogs so you may notice they take a little longer to settle in the evening.
⏰ Medication: You may need to slowly adjust the times their routine meds are given.

Some dogs who rely heavily on routine may start to exhibit “unwanted behaviours” keep a watchful eye on them to whether they feel stressed or anxious and provide reassurance and patience until their internal clocks make the change. If your dogs do have a set routine, start making small gradual adjustments in the weeks running up to the change.

More than anything, enjoy the extra daylight hours with your furry friends playing in the garden or going out on longer sniffy walks together and for me I can’t wait to be able to start evening training classes outside.

23/03/2024

🐾🎉 Happy National Puppy Day from us all at Paws ! 🎉🐾

Today, we're celebrating the boundless joy and love that puppies bring into our lives. 🐶💕 Whether they're tiny balls of fluff or adventurous bundles of energy, puppies have a special way of making every day brighter.

Let's take a moment to appreciate these furry companions and all the happiness they bring. 🌟 Share a photo of your adorable dog as a pup in the comments below and spread the puppy love! 📸❤️
These are some of the puppies Ive had the pleasure of training with today

12/03/2024

One space left, who’s puppy wants to be the one who can go anywhere with you ? Contact us now starts Saturday 🐶

08/03/2024

LickiMat are now endorsing aversive dog training companies - beware which enrichment products you now buy.

An enrichment company promoting one of the most well-known training companies that uses pain & fear to train dogs, with no education. I won’t mention the training company’s name as don’t want to give them anymore free advertising.

I am also disgusted at Crufts for allowing them in the building. I will never be recommending a Lickimat again there’s loads of others out there. Sodapup do great one’s.

05/03/2024

Training Tip Tuesday

As a dog’s caregiver, getting through the early days of puppyhood can be challenging to say the least, especially when your puppy won’t stop biting you and your clothes. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Biting and nipping are natural, but inconvenient behaviours in puppy’s.
The most important part of coping with this behaviouris to understand why they are biting ( mouthing )
When puppies play with other puppies or explore their environment, they do so with their mouths. It is common for puppies to bite or "mouth" hands and clothes during play or when looking for attention and is a natural part of the puppy teething process. As annoying and sometimes painful as this behavior may be, it is normal and an important developmental behavior. Puppy mouthing can get worse if a puppy is tired so remember puppies need between 18-20 hrs sleep every day.
The Dog Trainer School