My Kinda Dog

My Kinda Dog 🐶 Bristol’s Go-To Expert for Puppy, Adolescent and Scentwork Training 🐶
🏆 Bristol Dog Trainer of the Year 2023/24 🏆 Hi!

My name is Giulia, and I’m a qualified and experienced dog trainer. I help dog guardians understand, communicate, train, and thrive with their dogs. Your pet’s welfare and wellbeing are always my top priority, and that’s why I use a reward-based training approach that’s designed to build and grow your dog’s confidence and skills. My training strategy focuses on rewarding your dog for the behaviour

s you like, and on managing your environment in a way that helps your dog make the right choices. This is the most effective way to avoid and reduce undesired behaviours and set you and your dog up to succeed.

Do any of these sound familiar?🐾 Your senior dog seems restless or bored but struggles with physical exercise.🐾 Your shy...
15/01/2025

Do any of these sound familiar?

🐾 Your senior dog seems restless or bored but struggles with physical exercise.

🐾 Your shy or anxious dog gets overwhelmed in new situations.

🐾 You’ve tried everything to tire out your high-energy dog, but nothing seems to work.

🐾 Your dog struggles to settle at home, always looking for something to do.

You are not alone! But it doesn't have to be this way!

What if I told you that you can give your dog a purpose — a chance to channel their natural instincts, calm their mind, and boost their confidence?

🌟 With the right activity, your dog can find focus, enrichment, and the mental stimulation they’ve been craving. 🌟

Scentwork isn’t just fun — it can be the solution to so many common challenges.

Want to give your dog the gift of scentwork?

📩 Message me! 📩

🐕 How does good play look? 🐕If you are thinking of letting your dog interact and play with others then there are some im...
14/01/2025

🐕 How does good play look? 🐕

If you are thinking of letting your dog interact and play with others then there are some important things to know about appropriate play etiquette between dogs.

✅ You’ll need to match your dog to others in terms of their size, play style and energy level so that each dog enjoys the experience. Some dogs love to chase and be chased, while other dogs enjoy making body contact or wrestling. Your dog’s individual play style will depend on several factors, including their breed, social history, individual character and the environment at the time. Please note: I appreciate dogs of different sizes can also play well together, but it's still worth pointing out that size is a factor to consider to prevent injuries and dogs becoming worried.

✅ Good play, no matter the style, should look loose and wiggly. You should be able to see crescent shapes in the dogs’ bodies as they move, and there should be some space between each dog as they move back and forth. The dogs should take turns to chase or be chased, be on top or roll underneath.

✅ When dogs are well versed in play, you should also see moments where they disengage from the game and do something else to calm themselves down again, like sniffing, or engaging with their handlers.

Often young dogs have not had a chance to practise this enough to naturally moderate their own play so it’s important that you help them to do this by giving them a break between bursts of play and keeping sessions short - no more than 5-10 minutes, including breaks.

⚠️ Know When to Take a Break:

⏸️ Speeding up: If the play becomes too fast or one-sided, take a pause.
⏸️ Stress signals: If you notice signs of stress in either dog (like growling, stiff body language, or panting), move them away to a distance that will help them relax.

Creating a chance for your dog to experience appropriate play with a selection of social dogs as they grow up can help them learn useful skills, but be mindful and set your dog up for success by only putting them in social situations that they are ready for.

Picture of Juno (red Labrador), Poppy (black Labrador), and Ruby (Chihuahua cross) out on a walk.

Gorgeous Crumble looking very proud of herself after our one-to-one scentwork session!We worked on motivation to search ...
13/01/2025

Gorgeous Crumble looking very proud of herself after our one-to-one scentwork session!

We worked on motivation to search using the boxes and food, and on the basics of indication.

Crumble is a proper worker, and like most dogs (especially working dogs!), she benefits from having a 'job' to focus on - rather than going 'self-employed' and finding her own entertainment.

During our session we set things up to prevent frustration and arousal and I'm pleased to say she did absolutely great!

Thank you Michelle (CCAB) for referring her to me. ❤️

🐾 What an incredible morning at yesterday’s Beginners Scentwork Workshop! 🐾 The dogs and their handlers absolutely smash...
12/01/2025

🐾 What an incredible morning at yesterday’s Beginners Scentwork Workshop! 🐾

The dogs and their handlers absolutely smashed it, and it was an absolute joy watching these amazing teams bond, learn, and develop their sniffing skills.

Scentwork really is a fantastic sport, and it can do wonders to increase a dog's confidence and positivity, besides obviously being fun!

As you can see from the photos (thank you Nikki for being such a wonderful photographer!), dogs of all ages and breeds can get involved and enjoy themselves.

If you'd like to explore the fascinating training behind sniffer dogs and see just how incredible your dog's nose really is, my next Beginners Scentwork Workshop is just around the corner! 🗓️

🐕 No experience is needed — just bring your dog, a sense of fun, and let the adventure begin!

📅 Next Workshop Date: Saturday 22nd February
📍 Location: Henfield Hall, Coalpit Heath, Bristol
🎟️ Spots are limited.

Click here to sign up 👉 https://mykindadog.com/scentwork

Getting ready for tomorrow's Beginners Scentwork Workshop!
10/01/2025

Getting ready for tomorrow's Beginners Scentwork Workshop!

Walking and working with dogs…Who can relate? 🤣
08/01/2025

Walking and working with dogs…

Who can relate? 🤣

🌟 NEW DATE ALERT - SCENTWORK BEGINNERS WORKSHOP! 🐾🎉 Due to popular demand, I’m thrilled to announce a NEW date for my Sc...
06/01/2025

🌟 NEW DATE ALERT - SCENTWORK BEGINNERS WORKSHOP! 🐾

🎉 Due to popular demand, I’m thrilled to announce a NEW date for my Scentwork Beginners Workshop!

📅 When?

Saturday, 22nd February
⏰ 10am to 1pm

👉 Reserve Your Spot Here: https://mykindadog.com/scentwork/

In this fun and engaging workshop, we’ll dive into the foundation elements of scent detection training, including:

🔍 Motivation to Search
🎯 Indication

Important Info:

🐶 Dogs will work individually in the hall. Between turns, they’ll need to rest comfortably in your car.

Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out!

Ruby’s chosen resting positions looking very comfortable 🤦‍♀️😅
05/01/2025

Ruby’s chosen resting positions looking very comfortable 🤦‍♀️😅

Thank you Lucy for this lovely 5 🌟 review! Receiving such great feedback from a brilliant colleague always means a lot!💬...
04/01/2025

Thank you Lucy for this lovely 5 🌟 review!

Receiving such great feedback from a brilliant colleague always means a lot!

💬 Giulia is very knowledgeable and explains concepts in an easy to understand way. Her calm, kind and relaxed demeanour will put you and your dog at ease! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her for all things but especially scentwork (and being a trainer myself, I’m fussy about who I go to)!

🐾 Join my Scentwork FOUNDATIONS Class! 🐾Ready to unlock your dog’s natural talent for scent detection? In this class, we...
01/01/2025

🐾 Join my Scentwork FOUNDATIONS Class! 🐾

Ready to unlock your dog’s natural talent for scent detection? In this class, we’ll cover everything you need to get started:

✨ Motivation
✨ Indication
✨ Imprinting
✨ Searching

Each dog works individually in the hall, making this class perfect for anxious, reactive, or easily over-aroused dogs.

📅 Spots are limited to allow for plenty of individual attention.

📩 You can sign up here: https://mykindadog.com/scentwork/

Last walk of 2024 done!We had the lovely company of Poppy and Nikki (All About Dogs), who many of you know as she's been...
31/12/2024

Last walk of 2024 done!

We had the lovely company of Poppy and Nikki (All About Dogs), who many of you know as she's been an absolute star helping out in scentwork classes - and coming along with Poppy too!

This year, I had a lot going on from a personal and professional point of view, and I just want to say a HUGE THANK YOU to all the clients (humans and dogs!), colleagues, and friends who have supported me through the good and the bad.

I wouldn't be where I am without your constant love and help, and I am very grateful for that!

I look forward to more dogs, more walks, and more dancing (yes, I do still love a good dance!) in the New Year.

Lots of love to you all!

Unfortunately, some people think it's acceptable to set off fireworks during the day.The first loud bang today was at 12...
30/12/2024

Unfortunately, some people think it's acceptable to set off fireworks during the day.

The first loud bang today was at 12:50 PM – and they’re still going.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1️⃣ Dogs may appear fine during the event but still feel uneasy. Fireworks can be distressing for them even if they don’t show obvious signs in the moment. For instance, there were fireworks last night as well, and Ruby has been noticeably more sensitive and barky today.

2️⃣ Avoid areas where people might set off fireworks at odd hours. I understand how frustrating and unfair this is – we all deserve to walk our dogs and let them enjoy the garden safely. Still, it’s better to take precautions where possible.

3️⃣ Always use leads or long lines, even with dogs that usually have good recall. Fireworks can spook even the calmest dogs, causing them to bolt. If there’s any chance fireworks might go off where you’re walking, keep your dog on a lead. I’ve been using a long line with Ruby, even on quieter walks, because people often do unexpected (and frankly reckless) things. It’s best to prepare for the worst while hoping for the best.

4️⃣ Stay calm. Your dog will pick up on your energy, so keeping your composure can help them feel more secure. Believe me I know how hard this can be.

Sometimes having a break just makes you realise how tired you were! It’s been so nice to be able to have a little pause ...
28/12/2024

Sometimes having a break just makes you realise how tired you were!

It’s been so nice to be able to have a little pause over the last few days (even though I still took Ruby on her usual walks, studied, and even went to Pilates).

Who else feels they could snuggle up on a cosy blanket until springs comes out? 😅

27/12/2024

This isn’t a Christmas miracle — it’s the result of a lot of hard (but enjoyable!) work, patience, and consistency.

To say I’m proud of Ruby for being able to search and indicate with other dogs (quite a few!) walking at a short distance away is an understatement. This isn’t a situation I would typically set up for her, but since we were already working in that area and I could see that the other dogs were calm and under control, I decided to use it as a training opportunity.

Throughout, I was carefully monitoring Ruby’s body language for any signs of discomfort or arousal. My goal was for her to feel relaxed enough to choose to work with me — and she did beautifully.

This isn’t something I’d recommend for every dog. As always with behaviour, there are many factors to consider to ensure both dog and handler are set up for success.

That said, this moment perfectly illustrates what I mean when I say scentwork can help boost a dog’s confidence and foster a more positive outlook.

You might think Ruby and I regularly do searches around other dogs — but we don’t. Even at group events, dogs work individually, with others resting in the car or positioned farther away from the search area.

Having run both types of group classes — where all dogs are in the same room and where dogs work one at a time — I find the latter to be better for both dogs and people, at least when it comes to scent detection (for other types of training it might be helpful to have dogs working in the same environment at the same time). Working individually allows dogs the freedom to focus without worrying about or getting excited by the presence of other dogs.

I’m often asked whether I run group scentwork classes where dogs are all together so they can socialise or “get used to” other dogs. I don’t tend to. Hopefully, this helps explain why I don’t think such setups are necessary.

Dogs can be introduced as distractions if and when it’s appropriate, but my priority is always ensuring dogs feel safe and comfortable enough to do their own thing.

This approach also makes my classes incredibly inclusive, which is something I strive for. I know all too well how stressful it can be to join a group class if you have a sensitive, anxious, reactive, or easily over-aroused dog. My setup allows for plenty of individual attention and adjustments while also giving you the chance to observe and learn from others — without the added pressure of keeping your dog settled.

As always, this is just my humble opinion and how I personally like to work, and it recreates the type of classes I would want to join with my own dog.

If this sounds like what you’re looking for, my next scentwork class starts soon!

You can find out more and reserve your space here: https://mykindadog.com/scentwork/

Who else enjoyed a foggy walk today?We noticed that there were a lot more people and dogs out and about in the fields to...
26/12/2024

Who else enjoyed a foggy walk today?

We noticed that there were a lot more people and dogs out and about in the fields today - despite the weather not being great!

Everyone (mostly) was very respectful and good at giving others some space, which is always nice to see.

If you have a socially sensitive dog, it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings. Over the festive period, working patterns might change for many people, meaning they might walk their dogs at different times and locations too.

This is just something to be aware of in case you need to adjust your walking paths and times slightly to accommodate your dog's needs.

Christmas walk done!I hope today will be a peaceful day for you, whether you celebrate it or not.Expectations on how Chr...
25/12/2024

Christmas walk done!

I hope today will be a peaceful day for you, whether you celebrate it or not.

Expectations on how Christmas should be can add a lot of pressure - it’s okay to spend the day as you see fit!

We had breakfast, went on a walk, and will cook something in a bit. Simple pleasures with good company is all I was wishing for!

Look at what just landed on my lap!The beautiful business planner created by the lovely Rachel Spencer - I can’t wait to...
24/12/2024

Look at what just landed on my lap!

The beautiful business planner created by the lovely Rachel Spencer - I can’t wait to start using it and plan a lot of exciting things for the new year!

🐾 NEW Scentwork Class – Foundations Course! 🐾Ready to unlock your dog’s natural talent and have fun together? My 4-week ...
23/12/2024

🐾 NEW Scentwork Class – Foundations Course! 🐾

Ready to unlock your dog’s natural talent and have fun together?

My 4-week Scentwork Foundations course is perfect for dogs of all ages and abilities! Scentwork training is the ultimate way to bond, build confidence, and learn an exciting new skill.

📅 Start Date: Saturday 8th February 2025
🕒 Time: 10am (2-hour weekly sessions)
📍 Location: Henfield Hall, Coalpit Heath
💷 Cost: £149 for the full course

Why join this course?

✅ Boost motivation. Build your dog’s drive to search with simple and engaging games.
✅ Perfect passive indication. Teach your dog to offer a solid and reliable indication without frustration.
✅ Introduce a target odour. Add value to the target scent to motivate your dog to find it.
✅ Build confidence. Watch your dog problem-solve and increase their positivity.
✅ Bond with your dog. Strengthen your relationship as you learn and grow together as a team.

What to expect:

🎯 Hands-on training focusing on motivation, passive indication, and target odours.
🛠️ Tailored guidance for every dog and handler.
🐶 A supportive, fun environment for learning at your dog’s pace.
🎉 Tips to continue the fun at home between classes!

Here’s what past participants are saying:

🌟 “Scentwork has completely transformed how I connect with my dog – we both love it!”
🌟 “My dog can’t wait for class every week. It’s been amazing to see her confidence soar!”

Spaces are limited to keep classes small and personal. 🐕

👉 Reserve your spot today and take the first step on your scentwork journey!

📩 Visit https://mykindadog.com/scentwork to sign up.

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