Connecting with Canines

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Connecting with Canines

Connecting with Canines offers in person and online 1:1 dog training sessions.
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12/03/2024

This is awesome! You could get your children to draw their dog and animate it. 🙌

11/03/2024

Master Course - Aggression in Dogs Completed ✅

29/02/2024

Find a Great Dog Walker

If you are expecting a baby and don't currently have a dog walker, it could be helpful to find one before your baby arrives so your dog is familiar with them and the routine.

Sometimes we all just need a little help and having a dog walker can help make life a bit easier with a newborn and ensure our dogs needs are also being met.

Here is my dog Ralph loving his walks with .

26/02/2024

'A Family Life with Dogs' course completed

I always want to keep up to date on training so that I can support you to the best of my ability.

Helping you to create a harmonious home is my top priority, no matter what stage of life your children and dogs are at.

If you would like support, click the link in my bio and book a free call.

22/02/2024

Ralph loves going to see Bronwen. Definitely get in contact with her if your pup needs any chiropractic work. 💕

13/02/2024

Introducing Your Dog to Baby Equipment

Starting to walk your dog around prams before your baby arrives can be a great way to see how they respond and will give you ideas on what you will need to practise.

Ralph was comfortable around the pram but we discovered he would suddenly dash in front of it to get to a post with a great smell on it! He was able to ignore the baby and was more interested in the adults he knew and just sniffing as we walked along. This walk gave me some positives and some things to work on.

Ralph was rewarded for ignoring the pram and baby when we first arrived and for calm behaviours next to the pram. He was allowed to move away from the pram when he wanted.

If you are expecting a baby, grandchild, niece or nephew, etc, then I would start to practise walking your dog next to an empty pram before the baby arrives.

08/02/2024

Book Recommendation 📖

Doggie Language by Lili Chin

If you have children and are about to welcome a dog into your family, this is a fantastic book to look at together.

The beautiful illustrations make it easy for children (and adults) to understand dogs body language so they can identify what their dog feeling.

I can't recommend this book enough! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A nice activity to do on e you have looked at the book is to encourage your children to watch their new dog and see if they can identify things that make them happy/worried.

05/02/2024

Pet Scentwork Training

A big thank you to Natasha Underwood for delivering a fantastic day of training.

It was so interesting to watch all the different dogs work and look at how to support each dog and handler to progress. I loved how the dogs having fun was a real focus as well.

I'm looking forward to being able to help clients with everything I've learnt.

03/02/2024

Car Set Up 🚘

It can be nice to go for a drive to help your baby doze off or to drive somewhere quiet where you can walk the dog and stroll in some nature.

Before your baby arrives, set up your car in the new way so that your dog and you can get used to any changes.

I would also practise putting the pram in the car to see where it fits. Do you need a divider in the boot so the dog has one side and the pram has the other?

Set your self up for success by checking this before your baby arrives.

31/01/2024

Boundary Training

Have a think about your normal routine when you leave the house with your dog.

Does your dog pull you out the door excitedly or do they sit/stand calmly?

Before your baby arrives it can be good to set new routines when leaving the house to make it as stress free as possible.

Teaching your dog how to wait at invisible boundaries while you walk through the door can help set everyone up for success.

If this is something you would like help with, click the link in my bio to book a free call.

25/01/2024

Helpful Behaviours to Train when Expecting a Baby

Lots of your dogs will be able to do the above behaviours.

If your dog can already walk nicely on the lead, have you checked to see if they can still do this next to a pram?

If your dog can already settle on a bed, can they do it around distractions like a crying baby or when visitors are over?

Find out what you dog can already do and then you can help them to succeed with anything they find tricky before your baby arrives.

18/01/2024

Dogs have an incredible sense of smell!

Sometimes we forget that when thinking about preparing our dogs for the arrival of a baby.

By starting to wash our clothes with any new products before the baby arrives, we can prepare them for some of the new scents that will be in the home.

12/01/2024

💕Review💕

"I have a 9 year old pugapoo who is reactive on the lead.
My attitude was “ old dog new tricks” and didn’t think I would be able to change his ways. Julia was reassuring and so positive and after some work that I was able to continue on my own after, huge improvements were made. Julia is a true dog lover and her work is always coming from this place. She is knowledgeable and supportive and more importantly, was completely non judgemental.
Working with her was a joy and I would recommend her wholeheartedly."

Thank you 💕

12/01/2024

Children and Puppies!

If you are going to introduce a puppy into your family, have you thought about involving your children in coming up with a plan to ensure everyone is happy and safe when your puppy arrives.

Children are really creative, kind and fantastic at problem solving!

Work together on a plan as if they have ownership of it, they are likely to follow it through and be telling you what to do!

Grab yourself a big piece of paper and let them get creative with designing a plan with puppy free or children free spaces in the house.

Let them think about where the puppy might like to sleep and relax.

Where, when and how could they play or interact safely?

What rules could be good to help keep the puppy and humans safe?

I always like to suggest, we let the puppy sleep in peace in it's bed but once it's awake and has moved off the bed, that's when we can say hello.

11/01/2024

Very grateful to all your beautiful reviews you have been sending.

It means the world to me to know I have positively contributed to a dog and their family.

11/01/2024

Safe Spaces to Relax

When working with clients who have dogs and children, one of the first things we identify are the spaces in the home the dog likes to relax in so we can create some child free spots if they need it.

Some dogs like to be at height, some like a crate, a sofa, a dog bed, a chair, etc

Some like to be in a warm space, some like to be on a cool floor. This may vary depending on the time of the year.

It's also something we look at a lot with puppies so they feel safe in our homes (especially as we start to leave them for short periods of time) and can get the quantity and quality of sleep they need.

Having some spaces they can relax, away from foot traffic is really beneficial, especially in a busy home.

Where does your dog like to relax?

Do they have a variety of spaces to relax in?

Can they choose to go somewhere quiet if they need to?

10/01/2024

Thank you for your reviews!

10/01/2024

Sometimes we ask a lot of our dogs.

Breaking training down can really help our dogs to succeed and can give us valuable information.

If you are expecting your dog to be calm around children inside, first check:

Can you dog relax in that environment with familiar adults?

Can they relax there with less familiar adults?

Do they have a safe space they can go to where they won't be disturbed?

How is the dog around children outside?

How is your dog around noise and movement inside?

Obviously, there are lots of other considerations when children are involved but this is just a good starting place.

07/01/2024

Expectant Parents

If you are expecting a baby into your family, the best thing you can do to help your dog is to prepare ahead of the babies arrival.

Think about where baby gates and puppy pens could be useful and set them up before you baby arrives so you dog gets used to them and doesn't associate all these changes with the baby.

Walking around with a doll or a bag of sugar in your arms and trying some of your normal activities at home will help you identify times when you will need to pop your baby down and behind a barrier or when you need to pop your dog the other side of a barrier.

Preparation is your friend!

05/01/2024

Helpful Tips!

A great way to keep your baby and dog safe when you go to the toilet is to take your dog with you!

This way if you have put your baby in their cot or basket, you know they are safe as the dog is with you.

This also has the benefit of giving your dog some one to one time which they might have been missing out on a bit since your baby arrived.

Keep a jar of treats on the shelf in the toilet and that way you can practise behaviours like sit and down or some simple tricks.

Going to the toilet can then be a special time for your dog where they get your attention 💕.

02/01/2024

Happy New Year! 🥳

I am excited to announce from January I have opened up more slots for 1:1 clients.

If you are looking for support or have any questions, drop me a message or book a free 15 minute call via my website (link in bio).

24/12/2023

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

I want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has worked with me this year. I am extremely grateful to you all for supporting me and my business.

19/10/2023

I am currently designing a workshop for families who have a dog and are expecting a baby.

It will cover:

- How to safely set up your home before your baby arrives

- Training to start with your dog before your baby arrives

- How to manage initial introductions

- Dog Body Language

- Trouble Shooting

Let me know if there is anything you would particularly like to be included.

24/09/2023

Just to let you know, I will be out of the office from Wednesday 27th September until Monday 2nd October.

I will be back on Tuesday 3rd to reply to any messages or emails.

30/08/2023

🐾🙌 Grateful for Your Wonderful Reviews 🐶❤️

Thank you to everyone who has left an amazing review for my dog training business.

Your trust and kind words mean everything.

23/08/2023

Spaces Available!

With only a few weeks left of the school holidays are you still looking for something different to do with your kids?

If yes, my next question is do you have a dog?

Here at Kids and Canines we are holding a dog training workshop for your children and your family dog.

Bring them both along and your kids can learn ways to train their dog, learn tricks and trial some dog classes like agility, scentwork and obedience!

Our next workshop is Sunday 27th at 11am. They are being held at Pensford memorial hall playing fields. Only £30 for entry!

Message us to book your place

12/08/2023

***Introducing the dynamic duo behind our Kids and Canines workshops: Julia and Shannon!***

😀 Meet Julia:

- Primary Teacher with over 10 years experience
- Holds a degree in Animal Behaviour
- Dedicated the last 2 years to teaching dog training classes and working with 1:1 clients
- Recognized as a Kids Around Dogs approved professional
- Certified in up-to-date first aid and canine first aid
- Possess an enhanced DBS for a secure and safe learning environment for children

😀 Meet Shannon:

- Certified Dog Trainer with the Dog Training College
- Runs fun and informative dog training classes around Bristol
- Works with 1:1 clients
- Experienced and trusted dog walker and pet sitter
- Certified in up-to-date canine first aid

30/07/2023

****GIVEAWAY****

For your chance to win ONE ticket to our Kids and Canines workshop, all you need to do is like this post, add it to your story and tag three friends in the comments.

You have until 12pm on Thursday 3rd August to do so, the winner will be announced in the evening on Saturday 5th August.

Get clicking!

This is the second of four ticket giveaways so keep your eyes peeled over the coming weeks! 👀

24/07/2023

****GIVEAWAY****

For your chance to win ONE ticket to our Kids and Canines workshop, all you need to do is like this post, add it to your story and tag three friends in the comments.

You have until Thursday 12pm to do so, the winner will be announced Saturday evening.

Get clicking!

This is the first of four ticket giveaways so keep your eyes peeled over the coming weeks! 👀

15/07/2023

***EXCITING NEWS***

Connecting With Canines and Spot That Dog have the place to be this summer.

Do you have children? If yes, go to the next question!

Do you have dogs? Yes again, keep reading!

This summer we are running the ultimate workshop for your children and their dogs!

We will be showing your children how to have more fun with their dogs, teaching them tricks and skills and developing their understanding of how dogs communicate.

Every participating child will receive a goody bag of surprises for them and their dog!

Each ticket costs £40, and entitles one child to attend one 50 minute workshop. All children are to be accompanied by an adult for the full duration of the workshop.

These workshops are being held at Pensford Memorial Hall Playing Fields.

50 minute workshops starting at 10, 11, 12 & 1. These are suitable for ages 5-16. Spectators are welcome but are required to stand outside the workshop area.

How to book -

Please email [email protected] to express your interest.

You will receive a class form and booking invoice to confirm your place. These are to be returned within 3 days of receiving them to secure your place on the workshop.

Address

Bristol

Website

http://www.connectingwithcanines.co.uk/

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Videos

What do your walks look like? On our walk this afternoon, Ralph wanted to sniff everything so I just followed him around while he sniffed. It's his walk so I let him take the lead. Some walks he wants to run, play, watch, dig, climb, etc What would your dogs favourite walk look like? #scentwork #dogtraining #bristoldogtrainer #meetyourdogsneeds #health #fun #walkies #greenspace #happydogs #romanianrescuedog

'Let's Go' 'Let's Go' is a helpful way to move your dog away from something they find worrying. Start practising away from triggers to begin with and always get the help of a professional if you are unsure how to progress with your dog. Here we are practising on a straight section of pavement but we also practise on corners as this is often when you unexpectedly come across another dog or person. In this clip, we do a complete U-turn but sometimes we will just cross the road. (Ralph licks his lips when I say yes as he knows this means he's about to get some beef from the treat pouch.) Send me a message through the link in bio if you'd like more help with this. 😊

Having a fun and informative day doing scentwork training.

Toy Dogs Having a toy dog that your child can roleplay with can be a great way to keep your dog and child safe and a fantastic way for your child to show their love for their dog. When your child is at an appropriate age, you can also use the toy dog to demonstrate how to touch your dog safely. Have fun and stay safe 🥰 #kidsarounddogs #kadkidsarounddogs #dogtraining #roleplay #toys #happyfamily

Make changes to your home before your baby arrives. Pop up all your new baby equipment so you and your dog have a chance to get used to it. Think about where baby gates and puppy pens would be helpful and get those up ahead of time as well. #dogtraining #dogtrainer #dogtrainingbristol #babygates #puppypens #kidsarounddogs #newparents #familydogtraining #happyfamilylife

How to Start Introducing Dogs to Children Taking your dog on a walk with the children can be a great way to build a positive association with their presence. The children being there means we go on a walk which is something the dog enjoys. Stay at a safe distance from the children and observe your dogs body language. Speak to the children and explain we are just going to ignore the dog on this walk. If the children are keen to interact with the dog I suggest the children waving at the dog or giving an air hug (a pretend hug). If you have any questions, drop me a DM! #kidsarounddogs #dogtraining #bristoldogtrainer #safeintroductions #dogbodylanguage

Pain Ralph lunged out at a motorbike last week, something he has never done before. He has also been very jumpy around unexpected noises and has started nibbling and licking more than usual. If your dog has a sudden change in behaviour, it's always advisable to get a vet check as this could indicate they are in some element of pain. Ralph has been on Apoquel tablets as he is allergic to something in the environment that makes him itch but we took a break from it to see if it had settled down, unfortunately it hasn't. This itching is what has likely caused these behaviour changes so we will restart medication and monitor his behaviour. I'm pretty sure if I was itching all over, I wouldn't feel great and might be a little more intolerant to the world! #vetcheck #doghealth #dogtraining #wellbeing #kindness

Sniffing When I meet clients, before we talk about training, we always discuss meeting the dogs needs. This could be providing opportunities to sniff, dig, rip, climb, swim, etc How well do you know your dog? What are their favourite activities to do? Ralph loves to sniff, dig, rip and climb. We are not a fan of swimming however! #happydogs #naturalbehaviours #dogtraining #bristoldogtraining #p