Smarty Paws Dog Training

18/06/2024

"Just leave your dog to bark/cry it out. They'll get used to it." This is the BIGGEST MISTAKE with owners make with separation anxiety.

Well-meaning friends, family, and even some dog trainers often tell my clients to leave the dog to cry. It's the worst advice you can follow.

You see, it won't help, in fact it makes it far, far worse!.

The fact is that your dog is panicking. They are terrified that you have gone and will never, ever come back.

And if you leave a dog who is panicking to get on with it, they will just panic more.

Then, when the crying is peaking, you come back in. And voila - your dog has made an association. If I cry enough, my human will return. Now we have learned behaviour.

Learned behaviours are hard to untrain. The longer they learn this gets the response they are seeking, the better they get at the behaviour.

Eventually your dog is howling and you can't leave your home. You have noise complaints. You feel frustrated and you have no life.

If you need help with separation anxiety, speak to me. 07973430952 (WhatsApp's best)

11/06/2024

🐶 Separation Anxiety? Ask Me Anything! 🐕

Date: 26 June
Time: 7:30 pm
Where: Zoom - register on this link - so you can be anywhere in the world to join me on this! 🌏: https://calendly.com/smartypaws/happy-to-be-home-alone-clone

FREE Zoom clinic all about keeping your pup calm and content when you're away!
Whether your dog struggles with being left alone or just gets a little bored, this is for you.

I'll cover:
✨ Enrichment activities to beat boredom
✨ Is it true separation anxiety or just FOMO?
✨ Creating a safe, dog-proof zone
✨ Stopping barking, chewing, accidents
✨ Smooth departures & happy homecomings

During the 60-minute session, you can ask ANY questions you have!

Don't miss out on proven tips to help your dog thrive when home alone! 🏡🐶

09/06/2024

Dog-Tired: Understanding Canine Sleep Needs

Ever wondered why sleep is so crucial for dogs? Grab a coffee (or a bowl of kibble) and let’s explore together!

As a dog behaviour specialist, one of the first questions I'll ask is how much sleep your dog gets. Sleep is vital for your dog's health and mental wellbeing. If your dog is not getting enough sleep, we may see all sorts of behaviour problems such as aggression, separation anxiety or resource guarding.

Depending on their age, size, and breed, dogs can sleep 12-18 hours a day.

Why is sleep so important?
- Growth & Development: Puppies and dogs need sleep for brain development and learning.
- Health & Immunity: Sleep repairs tissues and strengthens the immune system.
- Mental Well-being: Lack of sleep can cause depression, anxiety and aggression - just like in humans
- Energy Restoration: Sleep recharges their energy for playtime.

Signs Your Dog Needs More Sleep
- Excessive yawning
- Decreased activity
- Irritability
- Health issues
- Over-arousal

If your dog is tired, treat them like a toddler and put them to bed. A well-rested dog is a joy to be around!

For a really good sleep-friendly environment, you'll need a comfortable Bed which the dog can stretch out in. A quiet, safe space is really important for for undisturbed sleep. And most importantly - routine - keep a consistent sleep schedule. Dogs absolutely love routine and the more routine a dog has, the more relaxed and calm they will be. It also goes without saying that a dog should have quality and plenty of physical and mental stimulation during the day.

Sleep is crucial for your dog’s health and happiness. If you're concerned about your dog's behaviour, get in touch. I’m here to help!

hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag hashtag

08/06/2024

Separation Anxiety - my own story - Alfie.

My dogs bring me so much joy. One of my dogs, Alfie, has always greeted me enthusiastically. After covid, he started crying when I left him to go out, I thought he just needs some time to settle. I thought, when I leave him, I'm sure he just goes to sleep. Then my family told me that whenever I go out, he spends the time standing at the door, head cocked, whining. And if he wasn't standing at the door, he'd be up on the sofa watching for me to return. I also noticed he didn't eat when I was out. The kongs and bones I left were completely untouched.

It took me a while to realise that this was not normal dog behaviour. There were subtle signs like when I was getting ready to go out the door, to the shops or even the bins, he would start circling and whining. Because Alfie wasn't too bothered when anyone else left the house, as a family, we worked with him, allowing him to see that I wasn't the only person he could have fun with.

We also worked on gentle exposure with me leaving him and whilst he is better, he still finds it hard when I go out but we're getting there. Popping to the shops or going out with friends for a meal is a reality!

(The photo shows Alfie shivering and shaking whilst we were packing the car. He did come with us btw! But note the tense body, the flat ears, the fear.)

Here’s the most important thing you should know:

Two out of every three dogs experience separation anxiety, and you’ve done absolutely nothing to cause it.

Read that again, and let it sink in…

You have done nothing to cause your dog’s separation anxiety.

Separation anxiety is not a behaviour – it’s a phobia. You might be afraid of spiders or heights. Why? Usually, it’s just there, it’s something you were born with!

So, all that well meaning advice you’ve been given will never work. It won’t treat a phobia.

Which is why the method I use is gentle exposure and changing the emotions that cause the dog to be so fearful at being left alone.

Get in touch via Whatsapp. I know I can help you! 07973430952

07/06/2024

27 year wedding anniversary today! As hubby ‘fondly’ says “he’d have done less time in prison ….”

And just like a marriage, a relationship with a dog is the same. We should have a traditional Dog Owning Vow:

I _____________
Take thee ___________
To be my loyal and trusted companion
To have and to hold (with you yanking my arm out of my shoulder and me trying to get you under control)
From this day forward (and every single p**p I pick up and early morning wake up)
For better (the greetings and cuddles), for worse (the barking and yapping, the destruction of my treasured items)
For richer (highly unlikely – have you seen vet fees), for poorer (yep, I know you need another bed/toy/lead)
In sickness and in health (and training)
To love and to cherish (unconditionally)
Till death do us part (but I’ll still love you and remember you fondly)

Owning a dog is a huge undertaking and sometimes you don’t get the dog you wanted. Sometimes the dog can come with issues that you never dreamt of.

But you still love that dog.

They’re still the best dog ever.

And that’s when you need help from a professional. Someone like myself who can help you understand your dog’s behaviour and help you to help your dog.

Send me a WhatsApp - what's to lose? 07973430952

06/06/2024

“If he ever baffled Kathy, she ... was always back the following week with a plan. ... I will be forever grateful for her endless and continued support as I’m confident that I would not have the dog I have today was it not for her help”

What can I say about Smarty Paws Dog Training and dog trainer, Kathy.

From the minute I mentioned to Kathy that I was considering getting a dog she was there with advice about what to think about, what to look for and how to prepare the house for bringing my puppy home.

I thought I knew how to train a puppy, but really all I knew were the basics, like sit & lie down. Through puppy classes, follow on classes I have gained so much more about my dogs behaviour and why he does what he does.

For the last 2 years Kathy and I have worked together to understand his little nuances & to figure out what works for him.

If he ever baffled Kathy, she never waves her hands of it she was always back the following week with a plan.

I will be forever grateful for her endless and continued support as I’m confident that I would not have the dog I have today was it not for her help, guidance & patience for my endless questions and messages!” Jill Edgar

Thank you Jill for giving me the opportunity to help you and wonderful Blaze! You both work really hard.

05/06/2024

Join the DOG TRAINING NI's Happy to be Home Alone Clinic to learn tips for keeping your dog calm and content while you're away.

This clinic is ideal for owners of dogs who struggle with being left alone or exhibit signs of separation anxiety. However, you don't need to have a diagnosed separation anxiety case to benefit. The strategies and training techniques covered can help make alone time less stressful for any dog. Whether your pup gets anxious or simply bored when left solo, this webinar will equip you with the tools to set them up for success. So, anyone looking to prevent issues before they start or improve their dog's alone time experience is welcome to join us.!

📅 When: Monday, 10 June 2024 at 8 PM
📍 Where: https://calendly.com/smartypaws/separation-anxiety-clinic - register your interest and get the zoom link
🌟 This FREE zoom clinic is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about how to help your dog be happy when home alone.

In this comprehensive 60-minute online session, we'll share proven strategies to help dogs feel safe and secure when home alone. You'll discover:
🐾Environmental enrichment techniques to prevent boredom and separation anxiety
🐾Discuss when its separation anxiety and when its FOMO.
🐾How to create a safe, dog-proof space for your dog
🐾 Managing barking, chewing, toilet accidents and other common "home alone" issues
🐾 Insider tricks for a smooth departure and happy homecoming
🐾 Question and answer session - please email your questions to [email protected]

Secure your spot in the next "Dog Home Alone" webinar today!

05/06/2024

Come along and meet us and chat about your dogs.

02/06/2024

Congratulations Alfie on your big sister Erin.

Alfie and his family have been working with me to help him adjust when Erin was born.

Alfie is being such a good boy!

01/06/2024

Handsome Rommee came to see me today for help with his dislike of other dogs. He was so brave and calm whilst we were working. Can’t wait to see him again!

30/05/2024

Sweetest girl Daisy learning recall today!!

She knows how to do it but erm what was I saying???

Oh yes she gets distracted!

30/05/2024

Lovely Mac who is here from Cornwall for a few months so he’s keeping his training up with me!

Learning how clickers work and how to do some tricks!

30/05/2024

When I smells the 🐇🐇🐰🐰 I runs and runs.

Spent yesterday training Hallie to come back when she he’s more interested in rabbits.

30/05/2024

It’s so sad when your dog just lies staring forlornly at the door after you leave the room.

It’s worse when their stress and anxiety boils over, and they whine, bark, cry, chew, and become (practically) demented.

Most dog owners have no idea how stressful, frustrating, and limiting it is when you can’t leave your dog home by itself.

They don’t understand that you just can’t do the simple things they take for granted, such as popping out for a loaf of bread, or meeting friends for a coffee, or going to the gym.

Even worse, they’re astounded you can’t go on holiday because you can’t leave your pup at the kennels!

They’ve no idea how upset and gutted you feel leaving your beloved pet at home by itself, knowing it’s suffering.

Worse, they’re full of well-intentioned, but ineffective and (often) damaging advice.

Things like: crate training, leaving them to cry / bark, essential oils, calming supplements and anti-bark collars.

The less kind will tell you should just leave them – “they’ll get used to it”.

It’s tough.

It can feel like it’s sucking the life out of you.

It can be very isolating.

It can damage relationships and your work may suffer.

I get it ... and that's why I work with you to help your dog be happy home alone.

Get in touch on Whatsapp 07973430952

28/05/2024

FEW SPOTS REMAINING FOR THIS! If you’ve already signed up you don’t need to again!

🐾 Join Us for Dog Training NI's First Clinic on Dog-on-Dog Reactivity! 🐾
📅 When: Monday, 3 June 2024 at 8 PM
📍 Where: https://smartypaws.as.me/DOG-ON-DOGCLINIC - register your interest and get the zoom link
🌟 This FREE zoom clinic is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about dog-on-dog reactivity. While we won't be providing specific training advice, we'll cover:
What dog-on-dog reactivity is
🦴How to avoid it
🦴How to manage it
🦴How it can escalate
🦴And much more!
🦮 Please remember: If your dog is experiencing reactivity to other dogs, we suggest you seek professional help.
Don't miss out on this informative session! See you there!

27/05/2024

😂 oh Tator! Really?

24/05/2024

Taking it ~s~l~o~w~ with Keano.

He’s built like a tank and doesn’t know his own strength. But after a few weeks of slowing his walks down and getting him to focus we’re seeing results!!

Still work in progress when we see cats but his owner can take him for walks without being concerned that she’ll injure herself!

Enjoy your walks and keep up the good work!

24/05/2024

Croia coming back when called.

Three months ago she was so distracted on walks my heart was in my throat. Now she’s off lead and coming back to the whistle every.single.time!

What a girl and what amazing owners to work so hard. Well done!

24/05/2024

When the dog trainer just bores you so you have to sleep through it!

Honestly love this dog! When we started Ziggy’s journey I was behind a child gate because everything excited him. But his amazing caregiver has worked continuously with him and has taken all advice on board. And he’s soooo chilled now!

Well done ! You’re amazing! 🤩

23/05/2024

Christmas images in May? WTH?

If you have a dog with separation anxiety, and want to go to your Christmas party and leave your pooch at home, you need to get in touch with me today!

Helping dogs to be happy and content when you leave them at home takes time. It takes patience and it takes a professional to help you.

Don't delay! Get in touch now.

22/05/2024

Floki just loved learning today. He loves life and making friends so were working on how to be calmer and have better manners!

22/05/2024

Molly and Peggy 💕💕💕💕 just the two most adorable puppies ever. They came to me a while back to help with pulling on the lead and reacting to anything that moved. Did a quick check in with them this week and they’ve learnt how to ignore other dogs, bikes, buggies and d everything else! Well done Kerri!

22/05/2024

Lovely Benci! He’s such a gent and loves pleasing.

Helping him when visitors come round and keeping him calm.

22/05/2024

Mini the gentlest giant I’ve met! She’s adorable and only 10 months old!

Needs help with recall, loose lead walking and counter surfing!

21/05/2024

I get the same messages all the time.

🗨 "Our dog won't listen."
🗨 "Our dog doesn't do what we say."
🗨 "Our dog is a d*ck."

And then the classic line:
🗨 "Maybe it's the human that needs training, heh heh heh."

Hoping I'll say:
🔴 "No, not at all. The dog is just not listening to you. Keep doing what you're doing, it's working well...

But that dog, yeah I can see your problem...
a. They need a hearing aid
b. They should know better
c. They need to be told
d. Maybe get rid of the real dog and get a toy dog? “

🚫 I'm not going to say any of those things. I'm here to help. I'm going to teach both you and your dog what to do and how to handle situations effectively. And how to ensure your dog understands what you’re asking of it.

🐕 Want to know more? Get in touch! Email, phone, WhatsApp (but please, don't tell me your dog won't listen).

20/05/2024

I teach dogs tricks.

A separation anxiety behaviourist teaches dogs tricks??

Yes, absolutely, I teach your anxious dog tricks.

Why? Well, dogs with separation anxiety believe that when you leave, you'll never come back.

And this can suck.

I understand what its like to leave your dog when you know the neighbours will be complaining because they bark or howl all day.

I know what its like to come home to destruction and mess.

And I know how frustrating it is to come home to a usually house trained dog but who has toileted inside. It is hard to understand why the dog does that.

And most importantly, I know the disruption this causes. Because you can't just go out. You have to arrange for sitters. You have to cancel coffee with friends, visits to the gym. Your life is now planned and nothing is impromptu.

By doing trick training, we give them something else to focus on.

We form a healthy bond with your dog. We give them fun stuff to do. And they have to use their very clever brains to do the tricks.

But mostly, they relax and they focus on us. They get some delicious payment.

And it changes the hormonal response in the body. We go from flight and fight responses to relaxed and calm.

And once we have calm and relaxed we can start working on the anxiety they have.

Want to teach your dog how to cope? Want your dog to relax when you go out?

Get in touch. Email. Phone. Whatsapp.

16/05/2024

Let's talk Separation Anxiety 💔😔 and how I can help:

1️⃣ Impact on Daily Routine:
⏰⚡️ Juggling work, social life, and a pup with separation anxiety can be overwhelming. I've got practical solutions to help you maintain your routine while ensuring your dog's well-being.

2️⃣ Worrying About Your Pup's Stress:
😰 Does the thought of your dog feeling stressed and anxious break your heart? I'm here to provide support and guidance on creating a calming environment and routine to keep your pup content.

3️⃣ Damage to Property:
🏡👟 Scraped doors, chewed window ledges and more - separation anxiety can lead to unwanted surprises. Practical advice on how to prevent damage.

4️⃣ Noise Complaints from Neighbors:
🤫 Barking and howling can lead to awkward conversations with neighbors and even noise complaints. I can help you plan how to prevent howling and keep your doggo calm when you're out.

5️⃣ Guilt Over Leaving:
😔 Ever feel that twinge of guilt when you leave your dog alone? Separation anxiety can make those goodbyes tough. Chat to me about how to make those goodbyes easier.

🐶 Ready to tackle separation anxiety together? Comment or DM me with your questions and concerns, and let's make those goodbyes a little easier on both you and your pooch. 💙🐾

15/05/2024

Do you have a puppy? If you want to start off on the right paw or even get your dog back on track, a training class will help.

So if you want an easy-going but playful pet, training your dog not only teaches them how to be a family pet, but you'll learn loads too!

🐾🐾 Classes starting in the next couple of weeks:🐾🐾

Puppy class (7 months and under) starting Monday, 20 May 6:30 pm [2 PLACES REMAINING]
Puppy class (7 months and under) starting Tuesday, 21 May at 7:30 pm [FULLY BOOKED - GET IN TOUCH FOR JUNE DATES]

Book your class on this link:
https://smartypawsdogtraining.co.uk/groupclasses/
5 week course. Only 5 dogs per class. Held at a Smarty Paws Dog Training's indoor facilities in Bushmills.

5 week structured course. Each week we cover something really useful and fun, such as :
🐕‍🦺focus on the owner not other dogs
🐶go to a place and stay there
🐕come back when called
🐩 how to have a pleasant walk by walking on a loose lead
🐕‍🦺how to use a clicker
🐶how to use a whistle
🐾lots of tricks and tips!

I also do private consultations, either in my studio or in your own home, get in touch or book online.

Please book on https://smartypaws.as.me/groupclasses

10/05/2024

I’m missing our other shadows this holiday- it’s our first holiday without kids and dogs since 1999!

When Polly (mad springer) was younger she chased shadows and it drove us absolutely potty!!

Visitors had to remove their watches and put their phones down when they came to our home. We lived with curtains closed so we wouldn’t have shadows and reflections.

It was immensely frustrating for us and Polly was stressed, exhausted and manic.

With consistent work we’ve changed her responses to shadows, and our life is back to normal (well, as normal as life can be with a springer 🤣)

Want help with your dog?

DM me.

09/05/2024

🐾 MAY 2024 PUPPY CLASS BOOKING AVAILABLE🐾

Calling all proud puppy parents! 🐶✨ We're thrilled to announce the launch of our highly anticipated Puppy Classes! 🎉🐾 Whether your adorable companion is mastering their first sit or perfecting their paw-shake, we are here to guide them every step of the way. 🐾📚 Join us for tail-wagging fun, socialization, and invaluable training tips. Let's unleash the potential in your pup together! 🌟🐕

5 week structured course. Each week we cover something really useful and fun, such as :

🐕‍🦺focus on the owner not other dogs
🐶go to a place and stay there
🐕come back when called
🐩 how to have a pleasant walk by walking nicely on a lead
🐶how to use a whistle
❓question time
👯socialisation
🐾lots of tricks and tips!

🐾🐾Classes🐾🐾
Puppy class (7 months and under) starting Monday, 20 May 6:30 pm
Puppy class (7 months and under) starting Tuesday, 21 May at 7:30 pm

Only 5 dogs per class so you get individual attention and your puppies get to socialise. Held at a Smarty Paws Dog Training's school in Bushmills.

Please book on https://smartypaws.as.me/groupclasses

Schedule your appointment online Smarty Paws Dog Training & Behaviour