South Wales Dog Training Academy

25/09/2025

Here's how I ended up doing what I do today....

Ever since I can remember, I've loved animals, particularly dogs and horses. I'd bring home any dog that I thought was a stray hoping my parents would finally let me keep one. They eventually said yes, with a surprise Golden Retriever puppy, when I was 12 years old. 😍

Prince was a great family dog, but he suffered terribly on Bonfire Night. He's why I feel so passionate about helping dogs with firework fear.
When we lost him at 16 years of age, my parents never had another dog again.
They're the best grandpawrents though!

Me, however, as soon as I was in a position to have one, I did! I found Talia, my beautiful German Shepherd girl, in Woodgreen Animal Shelter. She taught me a lot about dogs, especially barky ones that pulled on the lead towards other dogs! She was the reason I became so interested in dog training and reactive behaviour. 🐶

Sashi came next, another beautiful German Shepherd girl. She took reactive behaviour to whole different level! I studied more about reactivity than ever before. 🐶

Little Dipstick came next, an unwanted Jack Russell cross puppy. The Shepherd girls had been 18 months old when they came into my life, this little Terrier girl was a whole different story. I started to study everything about puppies as well as reactivity. 🐶

Bear was the next addition. A German Shepherd cross Husky puppy, another rescue. Super sensitive, but super friendly boy. More studying, especially on recall training! 🐶

During this time, 10 years ago, life threw me a curveball. A serious diagnosis had me flat on my back in a hospital bed after a major operation, wondering how I could possibly keep my dogs in my life if I couldn't walk (I was imagining only having goldfish!). I set myself a goal, to attend a workshop on dog aggression at the Royal Vet College and to walk into that room, not roll. 🚶‍♀️

I made it, with walking aids instead of a wheelchair. That day lit a spark. I realised that, although things had changed, I could still work with dogs. I trained with some great dog trainers and behaviourists and gained my qualifications. 🌟

These days, I may not manage anywhere near full-time hours, but I get to help clients near and far, both in person and virtually, with everything from puppy struggles to behaviour challenges.

Fast forward ten years, and here I am: running a business I love, still learning every day and still getting goosebumps when a client tells me about their successes or I see their bond with their dog deepen. That’s the reminder I need. That’s why I do what I do. ❤️

I know I’m not the only one with a dog who changed the course of my life. I’d love to hear your story - who was the dog that taught you the most? 🐶

Ps. I still have the goldfish! 🐠

25/09/2025

It's National Schnauzer Day! 😍

Here are 7 fun facts about Schnauzers:

🐾 Three Sizes, Same Breed - Schnauzers come in Miniature, Standard and Giant varieties, but all share the same distinct look with their wiry coats and signature beards.

🐾 Rat Catchers by Trade - Miniature Schnauzers were originally bred in Germany as farm dogs to keep rats and other vermin under control.

🐾 The Whiskery Look - Their trademark beard and bushy eyebrows aren’t just for style, they helped protect their faces from bites and scratches while working.

🐾 Loyal and Devoted - They form strong bonds with their families and are known for being loyal, affectionate and protective.

🐾 Low Shedding, Not Low Grooming - Their wiry double coat doesn’t shed much, which makes them popular for allergy sufferers, but they do need regular hand-stripping or clipping to keep them looking sharp.

🐾 Very Vocal - Schnauzers are known for being chatty dogs. They’ll let you know if someone’s at the door, or if they just think you need reminding about dinner.

🐾Smart and Trainable - They’re clever, quick learners who thrive on mental stimulation and love puzzle games, tricks and agility sports. 🤩

24/09/2025

What actually happens when you book the Fast Track Foundations package? 🐶🐾

We build the basics, boost your bond and see great results in just three focused sessions. This package is designed to give you and your dog the tools you need for success, whether it’s recall, calmness, confidence or loose lead walking. ✨

What you get -

1) A 20-minute discovery call to learn about your dog and decide which plan will suit you both best.
2) A summary of your personalised lesson plan.
3) Any extra resources you need, sent straight to you.
4) Video feedback and support between sessions.

How it works -

1) Meet at the Centre in Bridgend or at your home (depending on your dog’s needs).
2) Enjoy a fun, focused training session tailored to your goals.
3) Receive a summary of what we worked on.
4) Book your next session and keep the progress rolling!

✨ The sessions are fun, supportive and flexible - book them at your convenience. ✨

👉 Tag someone who would love this! 💜

23/09/2025

From chaos to calm - Juno’s transformation in just 3 sessions 🐾

When I first met little Juno, she was a whirlwind of energy but also full of worries. Larger dogs frightened her, so she barked, pulled her Mum all over the place and completely tuned her out. At home, things weren’t easy either, as she struggled to co-exist with her partner’s dog.

Our journey began with a video call, where we focused on managing interactions, creating decompression time after tricky moments and helping her Mum understand Juno’s body language. I also suggested a comfortable harness and a veterinary check-up to make sure everything was in place for her training.

Then came the in-person sessions, this is where the magic really happened. Together, we built Juno’s listening and focusing skills, giving her the confidence to tune back into her Mum instead of the world around her. Step by step, a calmer, happier Juno started to shine through.

Her Mum shared these wonderful words:
“After just 3 sessions I now have a dog that responds to me and that I can work with. I feel confident and equipped with the skills I need to further my training with Juno and continue improving our lives. Also, a lot of people close to Juno have commented on how much she has improved over these past 3 months.”

I couldn’t be prouder of them both 💕 Watching their journey unfold has been such a joy and it’s moments like this that remind me why I do what I do.

✨ If you’d love to see the same transformation with your dog, get in touch today – I’d love to be part of your journey too!
📞 Julie - 07814 400299

22/09/2025

“Can you stop my dog from barking and lunging towards other dogs?”

It’s one of the most common questions I hear from owners of reactive dogs and I understand exactly how it feels to be in your shoes.

When I first brought home Talia, my beautiful girl, I had no idea how challenging life with a reactive dog could be. Walks were stressful, I felt judged by others, and at times I wondered if I was failing her. But Talia changed my life. She’s the reason I began studying dog behaviour, gaining qualifications and dedicating myself to helping other owners who feel the same way I once did.

💜 What I learned is this: reactivity isn’t something you 'switch off' - it’s communication. With the right kind, ethical approach, I can help your dog feel safer, calmer and more confident and also help you feel more in control and less alone.

🐾 What makes me different?
✔ A science-based, kind approach – no harsh methods or equipment, only strategies that build trust.
✔ Real-life experience living with and supporting reactive dogs (and training lots more!)
✔ Recognised qualifications in behaviour and training – so you know my advice is rooted in up-to-date, ethical methods.
✔ Compassion for both ends of the lead, because your wellbeing matters too.

If you’re struggling with your dog’s reactivity, I want you to know that there is hope. Talia taught me that your goals are possible and I’d love to help you and your dog find calm together. 💜

📩 Send me a message to chat about how I can support you and your dog.

21/09/2025

Happy Responsible Dog Ownership Day! 🎉🐾
Being a great dog owner isn’t just about love (though there’s plenty of that 💕). It’s about the little things we do every day to keep our pups happy, healthy and safe.

✅ Training for good manners and life skills
✅ Enrichment and brain games to keep clever brains busy
✅ Meeting their breed specific needs
✅ Vet checks & nutritious food
✅ Different walks, appropriate play and plenty of attention

Tell us what’s ONE thing you do that makes you a super responsible dog owner? Bonus points for a photo of your pup being their fabulous self! 📸🐶

19/09/2025

Why We Shouldn’t Force Dogs to Socialise 🐾

It’s natural to want our dogs to have friends and enjoy the company of others, but forcing social interactions can actually do more harm than good. Here’s why:

🚫 Lack of Flight Opportunity
Dogs need the choice to move away if they feel uncomfortable. If they can’t, they may feel trapped and resort to defensive behaviours.

⚡ Negative Associations
If every interaction feels overwhelming or unsafe, your dog may start to associate other dogs (or people) with stress, rather than fun.

😟 Anxiety Can Increase
Repeated exposure to unwanted interactions can build ongoing worry. Instead of 'getting used to it', anxiety levels may rise.

💔 Confidence Issues
Pushing dogs into situations they aren’t ready for can knock their confidence. Over time, this can make them more fearful and less resilient.

👉 The best way to help your dog? Allow them to make choices, watch their body language and create positive, safe experiences. Socialisation isn’t about quantity - it’s about quality.

If you’d like guidance on safe socialisation and confidence building, contact Julie on 07814 400299

19/09/2025

18/09/2025

This big soppy baby cuddle monster has already stolen my heart. 💕

His lovely mum has chosen 3 private sessions to give him a strong foundation, and then he’ll be joining our Puppy Power course to practice his new skills around other pups and their pawrents. 🐶✨

I can’t wait to see him show off all his hard work! 💪🐾

Who else has a pup that thinks they’re a lap dog no matter the size?