Paws & Play Gundogs

Paws & Play Gundogs Pet Gundog Training for any breed or cross breed of gundogs. All training is run by a qualified and accredited instructor.

Positive & Choice-based Gundog training, outside & all year round for all levels whether it be for fun & a hobby or to work in the field. Fun Pet Gundog Training using positive reinforcement, choice, and reward-based methods for any breed or crossbreed of gundog that are primarily pets or for those wanting to work their dog out in the field. The training helps to stimulate their brain, keeps them

physically & mentally fit, & helps to give you a good level of control over your dog. Labradors, spaniels, and other gundog breeds can and do make great pets, but it’s also important to remember that they have been selectively bred for generations to hunt and retrieve in partnership with us. Gundog style training helps to harness these instincts and drives of your pet gundog in order that you get the most from them as you’re fulfilling their hunting instincts.

13/01/2025

"Just a generation ago if you went near a dog when he was eating and the dog growled, somebody would say, 'Don't go near the dog when he's eating!, what are you crazy?' Now the dog gets euthanized. Back then, dogs were allowed to say, NO. Dogs are not allowed to say no anymore...They can't get freaked out, they can't be afraid, they can never signal 'I'd rather not.' We don't have any kind of nuance with regard to dogs expressing that they are uncomfortable, afraid, angry, or in pain, worried, or upset. If the dog is anything other than completely sunny and goofy every second, he goes from a nice dog to an 'AGGRESSIVE' dog."
- Jean Donaldson

Understanding Operant Conditioning 💡Ever wondered how your dog learns new behaviours—or why they sometimes ignore you? 🐾...
13/01/2025

Understanding Operant Conditioning 💡

Ever wondered how your dog learns new behaviours—or why they sometimes ignore you? 🐾 Let’s break down one of the most powerful tools in dog training: operant conditioning!

🐶 What is Operant Conditioning?
Operant conditioning is a learning method where behaviours are influenced by their consequences. In simple terms, your dog learns that their actions lead to specific outcomes—good or bad.

There are four key elements:
1️⃣ Positive Reinforcement: Adding something good (like a treat) to increase a behaviour.
Example: Your dog sits, they get a treat. They’re more likely to sit next time!

2️⃣ Negative Reinforcement: Removing something unpleasant to increase a behaviour.
Example: You release lead tension when your dog stops pulling. They learn that loose-lead walking feels better!

3️⃣ Positive Punishment: Adding something unpleasant to decrease a behaviour.
Example: Scolding a dog for jumping up. (Not ideal for building trust!)

4️⃣ Negative Punishment: Removing something your dog wants to decrease a behaviour.
Example: Withholding attention when your dog barks for it.

🍗 Why Positive Reinforcement is Key
For gundogs and pet dogs alike, positive reinforcement is the most effective and humane way to train. By rewarding good behaviours, you’re building trust, focus, and a willingness to learn.

🔄 Consistency is Everything
Remember, dogs learn through repetition. The clearer and more consistent you are with your rewards, the quicker your dog will connect the dots.

🐕 Practical Tips for Gundog Training
Use high-value treats (think cheese, sausage, or chicken ) during the learning phase.

Pair rewards with verbal markers like “Good” to strengthen communication.

Gradually phase out food as the behaviour becomes reliable.

👀 Want to Take It Further?
Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll dive into the common pitfalls of operant conditioning and how to avoid them in your gundog training journey! 🙌

What behaviours are you working on with your dog?

Let’s chat in the comments below! 👇

Snow Days? No Problem! ❄️This week’s icy blast might have made outdoor training a no-go, but that hasn’t stopped us from...
12/01/2025

Snow Days? No Problem! ❄️
This week’s icy blast might have made outdoor training a no-go, but that hasn’t stopped us from keeping our gundog clients on track! 🐾

A huge thank you to my super clients 🌟 who’ve embraced flexibility—whether it’s jumping onto Zoom for our foundation groups or working through task-based self-learning for our advanced teams. 👏

Adapting means no cancelled sessions, consistent progress, and keeping those training goals in sight—even when the weather has other plans. 💪

Who says snow has to slow us down!

Let’s keep building those skills together! ❄️🐶

Give a 🙌 in the comments to all the super clients…

Before the snow arrived, I’d been out with Maola using these Dummy Balls by Sporting Saint, available  . They’re an abso...
08/01/2025

Before the snow arrived, I’d been out with Maola using these Dummy Balls by Sporting Saint, available . They’re an absolute game-changer for young or inexperienced dogs!

Here’s why I love them:
🌾 Perfect for long grass, where they easily get buried.
👃 Encourages dogs to use their nose to locate them.
🎯 Great for building retrieval and hunting skills.

Maola’s been making amazing progress with these! If you want to try them out, you can grab them on the Paws Brooklyn site and don’t forget to use my code p&pgundogs10 for 10% off.

✉️ [email protected]
📞 07871 594529
💻 https://www.pawsandplay.online/courses
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The 4 Quadrants if Operant Conditioning in Dog Training
06/01/2025

The 4 Quadrants if Operant Conditioning in Dog Training

🌟 Monday Motivation 🌟Are you team food or praise when it comes to training your gundog? 🐾Last week, I overheard someone ...
06/01/2025

🌟 Monday Motivation 🌟
Are you team food or praise when it comes to training your gundog? 🐾

Last week, I overheard someone mention they were stopping food rewards for their puppy, thinking verbal praise alone would do the trick. It got me thinking… While praise is important, relying on it alone could cause challenges in the long run. 🐶

Here’s why:
🗣 Verbal Praise Alone Isn’t Always Enough
For many dogs, praise doesn’t hold as much value as tangible rewards like food, toys, or play. If your dog hears “good girl” all day, it might not carry the weight you think during training.

🍗 Why Food Rewards Work Wonders
Food is an immediate, high-value reward that taps into your dog’s natural instincts. This is a core principle of operant conditioning—where behaviours are shaped by their consequences. By pairing a desired behaviour with a high-value reward, you’re teaching your dog that the action is worth repeating!

🔑 Balance Is Key
The goal isn’t to use food forever! Phase it out gradually as your dog becomes more reliable. Swap in other rewards like toys, playtime, or—yes—verbal praise for variety.

🐕 For Gundogs Especially…
Their training demands precision and sustained focus. High-value rewards like food keep them motivated while learning. As they develop behaviours, the activity itself—like retrieving or hunting—can become the ultimate reward!

💡 Pro Tip: Pair food rewards with verbal praise for a double dose of encouragement. Gradually transition to praise-only for everyday tasks as your puppy gets older and save food for standout moments! 🙌

👉 Want to know more about operant conditioning and how it works in gundog training?

Keep an eye on this week’s posts—we’ll be diving deeper! 👀

What’s your dog’s absolute favourite reward? Share in the comments below! 👇

Exciting news to share! 🎉🐾I’ve been listed as one of the Top 3 Best Dog Trainers covering the Sheffield area by ThreeBes...
04/01/2025

Exciting news to share! 🎉🐾

I’ve been listed as one of the Top 3 Best Dog Trainers covering the Sheffield area by ThreeBestRated.co.uk🐕✨

https://threebestrated.co.uk/dog-trainers-in-sheffield

Their rigorous 50-Point Inspection dives deep into reviews, reputation, history, affordability, and so much more—so this recognition feels brilliant. 🌟

What a fantastic way to start the year! 🎉

Here’s to even more pawsitive moments in 2025! 🐾

💬 Let’s celebrate together — drop a 🐶 in the comments if we’ve worked together, or share your own proud doggy moments below!

✉️ [email protected]
📞 07871 594529
💻 https://www.pawsandplay.online/courses
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Kickstart 2025 with a Fun Challenge! 🎉⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀This year, we’re putting your creativity and your dog’s skills to the tes...
02/01/2025

Kickstart 2025 with a Fun Challenge! 🎉
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This year, we’re putting your creativity and your dog’s skills to the test with our New Year Challenge! 🐾
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Here’s what to do:
1️⃣ Find the most interesting object you can.
2️⃣ Get your dog to pose or stay on it.
3️⃣ Snap a pic 📸 and tag us using
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
This is a fantastic way to challenge your dog with something fun and new—or step it up if they’ve already mastered the basics! 💪🐕
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
✨There might just be a prize for the most creative entry! ✨
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
🙌 Think your friends would love this too?
Tag them in the comments and let’s make it a pack effort! 🐶

❗️ Deadline for entries Friday 17 Jan.
Winner announced Monday 20 Jan.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Let’s see what you’ve got—get posing! 💥


Tackling Mouthing the Positive Way 🐾 🎄 As I closed up work for the festive season the other week, I was approached by so...
30/12/2024

Tackling Mouthing the Positive Way 🐾

🎄 As I closed up work for the festive season the other week, I was approached by someone while getting my nails done. They spotted my branded jumper, & asked about their soon-to-arrive Labrador puppy and mentioned something shocking:

They’d been told & also had read to shove their hand in the pup’s mouth until they gag to stop mouthing. 😧

This outdated, force-based method—and others like shouting or pointing fingers—relies on intimidation. It’s not only unnecessary but risks damaging your pup’s trust in you.

Building a confident, happy dog starts with positive, respectful training! Here’s what I shared:

🐾 Set Clear Boundaries with Kindness
When your pup mouths, calmly say “ouch!” and go still. Avoid pulling away—movement excites them! Once they release, withdraw yourself & redirect their attention to a chew toy or teething ring to satisfy their natural instincts.

🐾 No Need for Shouting or Intimidation
Raising your voice or pointing fingers might stop your puppy momentarily, but it doesn’t teach them what to do instead. These actions can make them anxious and confused, breaking trust instead of building confidence.

🐾 Teach What You Want
Focus on encouraging the behaviours you do want. Redirecting to appropriate chew toys teaches them what’s acceptable, creating good habits while keeping your bond strong and positive.

🐾 Why Positive Methods Work
Force-based training methods can lead to fear, anxiety, and nervous adult dogs. Positive training helps your pup grow into a confident, trusting partner—whether they’re your working gundog or your best friend. 💛

Training is about more than rules. It’s about building trust, respect, and a relationship that lasts a lifetime. ✨

Got questions about your gundog puppy?

Drop them in the comments or DM me—I’d love to help your pup thrive! 🐶

Teach the “What,” Forget the “Not” 🐾How much of your day is spent trying to stop your dog from doing things? Telling the...
28/12/2024

Teach the “What,” Forget the “Not” 🐾

How much of your day is spent trying to stop your dog from doing things? Telling them not to jump up, not to pull on the lead, not to beg, not to run off? It’s exhausting, isn’t it? And often, it feels like you’re stuck in a loop: your dog does the thing, you intervene, they stop for a moment… then they’re right back at it.

Here’s a thought: instead of focusing on stopping unwanted behaviours, what if you put that energy into teaching the behaviours you do want? Shifting your focus can make life less stressful for you, clearer for your dog, and more enjoyable for both of you.

Here’s how to start:
🐾 Reward calm behaviour—like when all four paws are on the floor.
🐾 Praise and reward a loose lead during walks.
🐾 Reinforce your dog for lying calmly on their bed or mat.
🐾 Acknowledge and reward when your dog checks in with you.

Take a proactive approach by rewarding the things you like, and you’ll soon notice those behaviours happening more and more.

Remember: The behaviours you reward are the behaviours you’ll see more of.

So, what will you reinforce today?

Boxing Day Bliss ✨🎄We hope you had a magical Christmas surrounded by family—both canine and human!🐾 Yesterday might’ve b...
26/12/2024

Boxing Day Bliss ✨🎄

We hope you had a magical Christmas surrounded by family—both canine and human!

🐾 Yesterday might’ve been all about indulgence, excitement, and a bit of chaos (thank you’s, wrapping paper and excited pups!), but today, it’s time to slow down, reflect, and maybe sneak in an extra walk with your gundog. 🌿

Whether you’re braving the frosty outdoors or snuggled up by the fire, remember—these quiet moments with our dogs are what make it all worthwhile. ❤️

How did your dog spend Christmas Day?

Share your festive snaps below—we’d love to see them! 📸🐕

What a day with two amazing 1-1 sessions! 🐾✨ First up was the sweet Polly, finishing her final session of her block. Ove...
18/12/2024

What a day with two amazing 1-1 sessions! 🐾

✨ First up was the sweet Polly, finishing her final session of her block. Over just 4 sessions, the transformation in Polly has been nothing short of incredible. Her owner has put in so much hard work, consistency, and dedication—and wow, has it paid off! Today, Polly looked like a completely different dog: focused, confident, and thriving in a new environment; the Monsal Trail 🙌

✨ Then there was Bodhi, back for his second session. We focused on building his recall with fun games, started introducing heelwork, and took small but steady steps to build his criteria. Bodhi’s enthusiasm is contagious, and his owner is doing great with their training. 🐕

💡 Progress like this doesn’t happen overnight—it’s about the little wins that add up to big changes. If you’re ready to take your dog’s training to the next level, DM me to book your own 1-1!

Let’s bring out the best in your four-legged friend. 🐾✨

NEW YEAR, NEW PUPPY? Start them off right -  Bookings close next week 🐾 🎉 Pet Gundog Puppies Course - January 2025 Is yo...
18/12/2024

NEW YEAR, NEW PUPPY? Start them off right - Bookings close next week 🐾

🎉 Pet Gundog Puppies Course - January 2025

Is your new puppy joining the family soon?
Give them the BEST start with our Pet Gundog Puppies Course in the Bakewell area!

📅 Upcoming Course Dates:
🐾 Friday 10 January 2025 – 11am (Only 2 Places Left!)
🐾 Sunday 12 January – 9am (NOW FULL)

👉 Why start early?
Puppies are like sponges, soaking up skills that will last a lifetime. Don’t wait for bad habits—set them up for success now!

🌟 What’s Included:
✅ Initial Zoom Q&A Induction
✅ 7 In-Person Weekly Sessions
✅ Smaller Groups = Personal Coaching
✅ Online Video Homework Guide
✅ Exclusive App Access for extra support
✅ Qualified, Accredited Trainers

🐶 What Your Pup Will Learn:

Basic positions: sit, down, stand
Obedience cues: recall, lead walking, focus
Gundog foundations: whistle cues, hunting, retrieving

We make training fun and effective using positive reinforcement, so you’ll build a confident and happy puppy! 🐕

📣 Act Fast – Spaces Fill Up Quickly!
👉 Visit www.pawsandplay.online/courses to secure your spot today!

Let’s unlock your pup’s full potential together. 🐾

✉️ [email protected]
📞 07871 594529
💻 https://www.pawsandplay.online/courses
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🐾 Timing & Positioning: Why Clickers Are a Game-Changer 🎯✨ Did you know HOW and WHEN you reward your dog matters just as...
17/12/2024

🐾 Timing & Positioning: Why Clickers Are a Game-Changer 🎯

✨ Did you know HOW and WHEN you reward your dog matters just as much as the treat itself? Let’s break it down!

Why it matters:
💡 Your dog learns by associating actions with outcomes. If your timing is off, they may not connect the treat to the behaviour you actually want.

**This is why I LOVE using a clicker or verbal marker!

🔑 The precise timing of the click (or word like ‘good!’) makes it easier and clearer for the dog to know exactly what earned the reward.

✅ Quick Tips for Success:
👉 Timing: Use the click or marker the moment your dog performs the correct behaviour. Treat follows immediately.

👉 Positioning: Be intentional!
Teaching heel? 🎯 Click and treat next to your leg in the heel position - not out in front or their back end swung out to the side

Teaching sit? 🍪 Click while they’re bum is still on the floor, then deliver the treat. Not if a paw is lifted or they’re in a hover

🔑 Precision builds clarity. The click clearly communicates success and helps your dog connect the dots faster, building skills like heel walking, sitting, and beyond!

🚨 Need help fine-tuning your timing or introducing a clicker?

📲 DM me today to book a 1:1 gundog training session or group class. Let’s get your dog clear, confident, and thriving!

👇 Who’s ready to level up their training? Drop a 🐾 below and tell me your dog’s favourite reward!



✉️ [email protected]
📞 07871 594529
💻 https://www.pawsandplay.online/courses
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Stuck on Stocking Fillers for Your Pups? 🎄Why not treat them to this Natural Treat Box from Fiveacre Natural Dog Treats ...
14/12/2024

Stuck on Stocking Fillers for Your Pups? 🎄

Why not treat them to this Natural Treat Box from Fiveacre Natural Dog Treats ?!

🐾 Perfect for bringing joy to their tails this Christmas.

🎁 My order is already in for Hobbs, Ellie, Tully & Maola 🧡🖤

What’s on your pups’ wish list this year?

Let us know below! 👇

🐾🎅🎄CHRISTMAS MUNCH BOX - £9.99 + p&p🎄🎅🐾

There's still time to order a Christmas Munch box for your furry friends. Our boxes contain a mixture of 19 yummy natural treats for your pups to enjoy 😋

The box contains:

-Normal Chicken Foot
-Hairy Lambs ear
-Hairy Rabbit ear
-Beef Trachea
-Golden Paste Turmeric Sausages
-Puffed Chicken Foot
-Beef tripe
-Fish skin cubes
-Lambs Spaghetti
-Venison Sausage
-Beef Testicle
-Lamb Snout
-Sprats

If you would like to order please drop us a message 😍

From a busy day of classes to working with my own dogs in between, it’s been non-stop!Wrapped it up on a high note with ...
13/12/2024

From a busy day of classes to working with my own dogs in between, it’s been non-stop!

Wrapped it up on a high note with a first consultation for Ozzi, an 8-month-old Labrador who made the big journey all the way from Nottingham. 🐕

This sweet boy is full of potential, and I can’t wait to guide him and his owners on their training journey in the New Year. It’s always rewarding to meet dedicated owners who are ready to put in the work. 🙌

DM me to learn more about how we can support you and your dog.





🏆 Join us for an enriching experience tailored for both pet & working Gundogs!

✉️ [email protected]
📞 07871 594529
💻 https://www.pawsandplay.online/courses
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Training your gundog doesn’t need to take hours—just a few minutes a few times a day can make all the difference! 💪✨With...
13/12/2024

Training your gundog doesn’t need to take hours—just a few minutes a few times a day can make all the difference! 💪✨

With wintery dark mornings and early nights, finding time to train can feel tricky—but it’s absolutely doable with a few clever tweaks!

Here are some easy ways to weave training into your daily routine:

☕ While the kettle boils or during your morning coffee—sneak in a quick session indoors before heading out into the cold.
🧍‍♀️ Have a friend keep you accountable—training buddies make it easier to stay consistent and keep the motivation alive.
🕒 Set a timer for 5 minutes during the day—short sessions fit easily into even the busiest schedules.
📺 Train during advert breaks—indoors, away from the elements, these short bursts keep training fun and engaging!
🍽️ Before mealtime, practice a couple of repetitions of a skill—it’s a great way to keep your dog focused.
🚶‍♀️ On walks, use a simple structure like: walk x paces → train x reps → play x seconds → repeat.

✨ Bonus Tip: Try the 2:2 Training Method from Ryan Kay of Farlavale Gundogs—train for 2 minutes every 2 hours, especially for pups! It’s a total game-changer, even during winter. 🙌

🌟 How do you manage training during the darker months? Drop your tips below! ⬇️

📸 Don’t forget to share a snap of your training sessions and tag me—I’d love to see your progress! 🐶💖

                                          
       

Meet the handsome Tadej! My last client of the day before it got dark 🐾 He came for a private session today to kick-star...
12/12/2024

Meet the handsome Tadej! My last client of the day before it got dark 🐾

He came for a private session today to kick-start his training journey before joining our Pet Gundog Foundations course in the New Year. ✨

It’s always rewarding to see dogs and their handlers begin their training with focus and enthusiasm. Building a solid foundation now sets the stage for a lifetime of success—both in the field and at home. 💪

Curious about our Pet Gundog Foundations course? DM us to learn more or secure your spot for 2025! 📩


                                          
       

Address

Main Road
Buxton
SK178

Opening Hours

Monday 10am - 5pm
Tuesday 10am - 6pm
Thursday 10am - 6pm
Friday 10am - 2pm

Telephone

+447871594529

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Our story

Positive Reinforcement & Choice-based Clicker Gundog training. Training is done outside & all year round for all levels whether it be for fun & a hobby or to work in the field.

The training we do will help strength the relationship you have with your dog so you can enjoy the time you spend together. The training is taught by qualified and accredited trainers so you know you and your dogs are in good hands.

Our group classes are small enabling you to get the best out of your training and also we can give you more individual attention. They are taught outside so your dogs are able to learn what to do in the ‘real world’ rather than in a village hall which also allows your dogs more space to learn and cope. We train using food and toy based reinforcers (rewards), choice-based methods so your dog knows by default what to do rather than being micro-managed all of the time.

We offer a range of group courses and fun workshops hosted by external trainers. For more details check out our website > www.pawsandplay.online