Snuffle Dog Training and Walking

18/07/2025

👍👍👍

16/07/2025

Interesting

"Our research indicated that dogs fed a non-processed meat-based diet during the weaning period, puppyhood, and adolescence, which corresponds to the age range of 1 month to 1 or 1.5 years, were associated with a significantly lower risk of developing DC later in life. Conversely, dogs consumed an ultra-processed carbohydrate-based diet during the same periods was associated with a significantly higher risk (p = 0.01, p = 0.001, and p = 0.02 for weaning, puppyhood, and adolescence, respectively). Additionally, residing with other dogs was significantly associated with a decreased likelihood of DC development later in life (p = 0.015). Moreover, from the non-modifiable factors model, a maternal history of DC and small size of the dog were strongly associated with an increased risk of DC development later in life."

15/07/2025

👍

12/07/2025

HOT WEATHER & AN INCREASE IN BITE RISK 🥵

We've had some very hot weather recently in the UK, and for many parts of the UK- the next three days are going to be scorchio!

It's important to be aware that being too hot can lower thresholds for tolerance and overt reactions- and not just in 'reactive' dogs.

And not just in dogs!

There's a correlation between human riots and an increase in crime during a significant rise in temperature (27 to 32 degrees).
It is well established that in people, heat stress causes irritability and an increased likelihood of aggressive behaviour.

Being hot and bothered is a physical stressor - the body works hard to return to homeostasis.

Cognitive processes can be negatively affected. So if your dog is not responding to as they would normally, consider the effects of heat.

Furthermore- being too hot can interfere with a dog's ability to rest and sleep. During rest and sleep, stress is lowered, and subsequently compromised rest and sleep affects behaviour.

This can affect (lower) the dog's threshold for emotional stress.


🐕 Two unfamiliar dogs meeting while both are hot and bothered is less likely going to result in a healthy interaction. Now is the time to largely keep yourselves to yourselves on walks, or monitor the body language of both dogs very carefully.

🏡 Extra caution should be taken in situations that your dog may struggle with, such as around visitors to the home.

🧒 But the greatest caution of all should be taken around up-close interactions in ALL dogs, especially those who live children.

Remember these basic safeguarding rules;

1. No faces near faces.

2. Let sleeping dogs lie.

3. Do not forcefully take resources (toys, food or anything the dog has found/picked up) off a dog.
Children should never take things off a dog.

4. Do not 'box dogs in' with your interaction.

- Always ensure they can easily move away by not blocking a dog's ability to move forward/away (for example, wrapping your arms around to hug a dog front on makes it near impossible for them to easily disengage).

- The safest way to interact is to invite a dog to come to you.
Alternatively, if you do approach then do so when they are awake and instead of swooping straight in with strokes- wait for them to signal to you they are keen for an interaction.

- Stop stroking after 2-3 seconds, and see if your dog communicates to you they would like more, or if they are done.
This is called the consent test, and it's something all children (and adults) should be aware of.


Most people who get bitten by a dog know the dog well, didn't think their dog would ever bite someone and didn't see the bite coming.

Most dog bites are on faces and hands of someone close to the dog, and this tells us a lot about what the person was LIKELY doing (Note, there are always exceptions).


As I always say to my clients ......

🗣️ Never take your dog's current level of tolerance for granted.

12/07/2025

Next courses start in August, Mondays in Burgess Hill and Saturdays in Ringmer with classes for pups under 6 months and classes for adolescents and adults. Email for further information and booking and let your friends know! ( if they have a dog of course!😄) 🐾🐾🐾

03/07/2025

Recall starting to take shape! Teasel has an unknown learning history and is genetically predisposed to chasing fluffy things! We’re getting there slowly but surely! 😊

02/07/2025

Inquisitive noses and buzzing bees don’t always mix!

If your dog gets stung by a bee or wasp, here’s what to do:

🐝Remove the sting (if visible) by gently scraping it out with a bank card or something similar — don’t use tweezers, as they can squeeze more venom in.
🐝 Soothe the area with a cold compress or clean cloth soaked in cold water.
🐝 Watch for signs of a serious reaction, such as:
– Swelling, especially around the mouth, throat or eyes
– Vomiting or diarrhoea
– Trouble breathing
– Weakness or collapse

📞 If your pet shows any of these signs, or is stung on the face, inside the mouth or throat, call your vet right away - reactions can develop quickly and be serious.

Even mild stings can be painful, so always monitor your pet closely and contact your vet if you’re unsure.

02/07/2025

👍

28/06/2025

Teasels first puppy class!
She did find this a little difficult, new environment, lively puppies, different sounds, sights and smells!
With lots of understanding, rewarding easy behaviours she started to settle.
Learning is not just for puppies, one very proud Mum! 😍😍🐾🐾

28/06/2025

Squirrel around! 😄

26/06/2025

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