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Edinburgh Holistic Dogs

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Edinburgh Holistic Dogs

Edinburgh Holistic Dogs Dog Trainer and behaviourist specialising in Foreign Rescue dogs and Reactive dogs. Seeing the owners become proud of their dogs achievements too.

Edinburgh Holistic Dogs is a dog training service set up in 2017 by Suzanne Gould. The business aims to provide Calm Confidence for Foreign Rescued and Reactive Dogs. Specialising in training for Foreign Rescue Dogs and Reactive Dogs which is inspired by my personal history of adopting Old English Sheepdogs and after realising there is an increasing number of adopted dogs, whose owners are strugg

ling. Working with rescued dogs has earned me the name of The Rescue Dog Ranger™

I show owners how they can transform their lives with their dogs, the training provided isn’t your typical obedience style instead I focuses on confidence building, strengthening communication and how to handle stressful situations. Training is done on a 121 basis, I am known for my relaxed and friendly approach when working with dogs and their owners. I always share own experiences with my dogs both the good and the embarrassing too. I am driven by the need to help fellow dog owners who want the best for their dog and are stuck on how to go about it. The common problem I come across is the lack of support and help new owners get from the place they rescued their dog, this in turn causes unnecessary problems or escalates easy problems to solve into something more intensive. I absolutely love seeing the relationship between owner and dog grow, become stronger and deeper.

24/04/2025

Veterinary Appointments: Why a Calm Canine Matters

Let's chat briefly about something that can seriously impact your dog's vet visits: your dog's emotional state during the appointment.

While we all want a smooth and easy visit, a stressed, anxious, fearful, or aggressive dog can inadvertently throw a wrench in the works.

It's not just about their comfort (though that's super important!), but also about the accuracy and efficiency of the care they receive.

Think about it: when a dog is highly stressed, their physiological parameters like heart rate and blood pressure can spike, potentially giving us readings that aren't truly representative of their baseline health.

A tense dog also makes a thorough physical exam… well, a bit of an obstacle course for the vet, from reluctance to move a limb or having a tense abdomen, makes it feel like a challenge.

Plus, sample collection, like blood draws, can become tricky and even a little risky for everyone involved.

Ultimately, a stressed dog might not present their typical symptoms, making it harder for the veterinary team to get a clear picture and reach an accurate diagnosis.

And let's be honest, a negative experience can make future vet visits a source of significant anxiety for your dog (and for you!).

So, how do we make vet visits stress-free? Cooperative care

This training approach empowers dogs to become active and willing participants in their own care, rather than passively tolerating or resisting handling and procedures. It's based on building trust, clear communication, and positive associations, giving the dog a sense of control and choice.

The core principle is to teach the dog that they can signal their comfort level and that their "yes" and "no" signals will be respected.

This is achieved through positive reinforcement, breaking down procedures into small, manageable steps, and allowing the dog to opt out at any point without negative consequences..

Creating a calmer environment for your dog at the clinic can really make a difference. Chat with your vet about discussing pre-visit calming aids, which might be a game-changer. Good Communication with the clinic staff about your dog's struggles can also go a long way.

Set your dog to remain calm and relaxed in clinical settings.

If your dog needs help with vet visits, reach out for a chat.

23/04/2025

Every rescue dog has a story, and sometimes those stories come with unique behavioural quirks or anxieties.

Thats why my behaviour programs delve deeper than standard training.

I take the time to understand your rescue dog's individual background and challenges, crafting a truly bespoke plan that addresses their specific needs.

Whether it's building confidence, overcoming fear, or simply settling into their new life, my personalised approach is designed to set you and your dog up for success.

Discover how my tailored support can make all the difference for your beloved rescue with
🐾121 training and behaviour support.
🐾In person at your home or via Zoom.
🐾Health review including diet, toileting habits, sleep, posture and gait analysis
🐾Typed up notes sent after every appointment
🐾WhatsApp support
🐾A private community of support.
🐾Veterinary liaison and support

If you need help, lets have a chat. Email [email protected]
🐾🐾🐾

22/04/2025

This wee sweetie is Sophie! 🥰🥰🥰

She is 7 months old and a new rescue.
Her humans reached out for help, with getting her settled and adapting to her new life.

Sophie has settled in really well and is being very brave in approaching her new challenges. Everything is quite exciting and also scary, so we are helping her grow her confidence and resilience.

I can't wait to see how she progresses!

20/04/2025

Happy Easter!

Remember to keep your dogs safe from chocolate.... by being strong and eating it all before they can sniff it!

Enjoy the long weekend!

🐣🐣🐣

18/04/2025

Three Myths About Canine Behavior Medication

🔺Myth 1: Behavior medication is a "quick fix" or a "magic pill" that instantly changes my dog's behavior.

⭐Truth: Behavior medication isn't a quick fix. It takes weeks to show its full effect.
It's most effective as part of a comprehensive plan with training and management.
Medication helps create a calmer state for learning; it doesn't replace training.

🔺Myth 2: Giving my dog behavior medication means I've failed as a pet owner or that my dog is "broken".

⭐Truth: Behavioral issues often have a biological basis. Using medication shows responsible dog ownership and care. It addresses a health issue, not a flaw in your dog or your parenting.

🔺Myth 3: Once my dog starts behavior medication, they will have to stay on it forever.

⭐Truth: The duration varies per dog and condition. It can provide temporary support for training or challenging periods. In some cases, long-term use is for maintaining stability, always at the lowest effective dose.

It's crucial to approach the topic of behaviour medication for your dog with accurate information. It's not a magic solution, it doesn't reflect on your abilities as a pet owner, and it's not necessarily a lifelong commitment.

17/04/2025

The Role of SSRIs in Canine Behavior Management

Last week, I was disgusted to see a local behaviourist share a post that implied that there is no way medication like SSRI, ie Fluoxetine, can help with multiple problems like anxiety, separation anxiety, OCD, among other conditions. It was basically shaming owners who use medications for their dog.

The post was wildly misleading (it couldn't even explain how SSRIs work), hateful and judgmental, and worse still, their followers liked the post.

How and why SSRIs are used.

When behavioral challenges arise, we often explore training, enrichment, and routine adjustments. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, our dogs need a little extra support—and that's where medications like SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) can be game-changers.

If your veterinarian has recommended an SSRI like fluoxetine for your dog's anxiety, reactivity, or compulsive behaviors, please know: it's okay. There's absolutely no shame in it, and it doesn't mean you've failed as an owner.

Here's why needing an SSRI is perfectly acceptable for your dog:

1. It addresses a Biological Imbalance: Just like humans, dogs can experience chemical imbalances in their brains that contribute to behavioral issues. SSRIs help regulate serotonin, a crucial neurotransmitter that plays a significant role in mood, anxiety, and impulse control. Think of it as providing the necessary support to help their brain function more effectively.

2. It Can Significantly Improve Their Quality of Life: Imagine living with constant anxiety or being driven by overwhelming compulsions. These situations are stressful and can severely impact a dog's well-being. SSRIs can help reduce these intense feelings, allowing your dog to feel calmer, more secure, and ultimately happier.

3. It Often Makes Training More Effective: When a dog is constantly in a state of high anxiety, learning new behaviors through training can be incredibly difficult. By reducing their overall anxiety levels, SSRIs can create a "window of opportunity" where your dog is more receptive to training and behavior modification techniques. Medication can help them reach a state where they can better process and respond to what you're trying to teach them.

4. It's Not a "Quick Fix" or a Replacement for Good Management: SSRIs are typically used in conjunction with behavior modification, environmental enrichment, and consistent routines. They are a valuable tool in a comprehensive treatment plan, not a standalone solution.

5. Veterinarians Recommend It Based on Scientific Evidence: Just like with human medicine, the use of SSRIs in veterinary medicine is based on research and clinical experience. Veterinarians prescribe these medications because they have been shown to be effective in managing certain behavioral conditions.

6. You're Prioritizing Your Dog's Well-being: Using medication when recommended shows immense care and dedication to your dog's happiness and comfort. You're acknowledging their struggles and seeking the best possible outcome for them.

Think of it this way: If your dog had a physical ailment causing them pain, you wouldn't hesitate to seek veterinary care and administer prescribed medication.

Behavioral issues are just as real and can cause just as much suffering. Treating them with appropriate tools, including medication when necessary, is a responsible and loving choice.

So, if your dog needs an SSRI, hold your head high. You are doing what's best for your dog, helping them live a calmer, happier, and more fulfilling life. You are a wonderful dog parent for recognising their needs and seeking the right support.

16/04/2025

🙌 Here’s my quick top tip to ensure you and your dog master your training🙌

Most often, training your dog isn't a quick fix; it's a long-term plan that changes not only your dog's well-practised habits but yours too.

It is easy to feel the overwhelm

Well, this is my solution when you feel there is a lot to teach your dog.... do everything little and often 🤩

Rather than trying to tackle everything every day, pick 2 to 4 games or exercises a day. Then, in spare moments, you can practice a couple of them.

Think waiting for the kettle to boil, TV ad breaks, pausing mid-walk, and spending five minutes less on your phone before you give your dog its meal.

Tackling training in small chunks more frequently means your dog learns faster and training is less of a chore!

What's been your favourite way to master new training?

14/04/2025

This handsome boy is Rolo!
When pain is part of the problem....

He is a Romanian rescue who settled into his home with new humans. However, when the family's eldest daughter moved back home, Rolo struggled to accept her.

He barks and runs at her, keeps a close eye on what she does, and recently nipped her.
He also struggles to see some dogs on walks, causing him to bark and lunge.

We have been working on creating calm associations with his new family member and the dogs on walks.

I also performed a health check on Rolo, which included a posture and gait check. I found adaptations around both of his back legs. Rolo was also unable to perform a normal walking gait. These observations, coupled with a number of others, were sent to Rolo's vets.

Investigations revealed that he has Osteoarthritis in his lower back, which no doubt would have been causing him discomfort or pain. So he is currently on pain relief, and this has had a HUGE improvement on his behaviour.

We still have some work to do together, but I can't wait to see his progress!

11/04/2025

Adventures in dog walking sunshine edition
🐾☀️🐾☀️🐾

10/04/2025

Struggling to help your rescue dog settle in?

Bringing a foreign rescue dog home is incredibly rewarding, but it can also come with challenges. Many rescue dogs, especially those from abroad, may experience anxiety, reactivity, or have difficulty adjusting to their new lives.

Foreign rescue dogs are unique, and unlike British rescue dogs, which is why I specialise in helping these dogs and their new humans. I have created a bespoke behaviour program designed to help rescue dogs build confidence and thrive in their forever homes.

Included in every behaviour programme
🔸In-home or Zoom training sessions tailored to your dog's individual needs.
🔸A personalised training plan to address specific challenges.
🔸Typed up notes sent after each session to ensure consistent progress.
🔸24/7 WhatsApp support to guide you every step of the way.
🔸Health assessment includes diet, sleep, movement and posture checks to ensure your dog is in optimal health.
🔸Health and Behaviour reports sent to your vet, with support for any appointments.
🔸Access to a private Facebook community for support and advice.

Ready to give your rescue dog the best start?

If you would like help with your foreign rescue dog, contact us, and we can chat about everything that is happening.
Simply email [email protected]

09/04/2025

A lovely 5* Review from Romanian Rescue dog Percy and his humans.

Percy was struggling to see unfamiliar people and dogs on walks. Also, he didn't like people visiting their home.

They've all worked hard to create a calmer life.

08/04/2025

We had one our clients only walkabouts last weekend!

Several of my behaviour clients came out, we had plenty of chances to practice our training and were even able to some playtime!

All the dogs did really well and were all very tired afterwards.

😊😊😊

07/04/2025

The Rescue Dog Rangers Road Map🐾🐾🐾

As you know, I have a book, launched in 2020, about helping you welcome home your new rescue/adopted dog.

It was a passion project, I am super proud of it, but it has always needed re-editing.
I have finally been able to put together a Revised Edition for 2025!

Its OUT NOW!
https://amzn.eu/d/8SZU7ee

Whether you’re planning to adopt a rescue dog, have recently added one to your family, or have had one for a while, this book provides all the help you will need to ensure your rescue dog settles in, gains confidence, and enjoys life with you.

Suzanne’s way of teaching. It helps you avoid the common pitfalls of rescue dog ownership while telling you about the dogs she has adopted, including her own mistakes, so you don’t make them.

Suzanne will show you how and why dog training should be done correctly, why she chooses training games, and why she does not demand perfection. In this easy-to-follow book, Suzanne has combined everything she loves to teach.

Inside The Rescue Rangers Road Map:

🐾Are you dog ready? An honest look at what it means to become a dog owner.
🐾How to choose your new rescue dog, the questions you should ask the rescue center or foster carer.
🐾How to handle the first 24 hours, the first week and the rest of your life.
🐾 Press the Reset Button when it comes to training your new dog and how to get the best from them with rewards-based training.
🐾Dog training basics, ask including walking without pulling, recall games and much more.
🐾 Bond-building games start out as you mean to go on, helping grow your dog's confidence and strengthening your bond.
🐾 If your new rescue dog is Reactive aka barking, lunging or pulling lunatic, you’ll learn 🐾 What to do if your new dog is more like a scared cat than a brave dog.

Transform your rescue dog into a calm, confident canine who will have plenty of fun while in the expert care of Suzanne and this book.

04/04/2025

So, your vet's suggested a pain relief trial for your dog to help pinpoint any hidden discomfort. That's great! It's important to remember that these trials aren't about expecting a night-and-day transformation. Instead, we're looking for those subtle shifts in your dog's behavior. They can't tell us how they're feeling, so we need to be extra observant.

This guide will walk you through what to watch for and how to keep track of those key changes.

https://edinburghholisticdogs.co.uk/your-role-in-your-dogs-pain-relief-trial-a-guide-for-owners/

03/04/2025

Beach adventures 😍😍😍

#

02/04/2025

Don't Walk Your Dog Day!

🐾 Sometimes, ditching your regular dog walk can be a good thing. 🤯

We all know our dogs need exercise, but it doesn't always have to be a walk. This is especially good when you have a dog with reactive challenges or an anxious or scared dog. Removing them from a walk that causes them stress is a good thing.

Here is what you can do instead:

🐾 Puzzle Toys: These toys challenge your dog's problem-solving skills and keep them mentally engaged.

🐾 Scent Work: Hiding treats or toys and encouraging your dog to use their nose to find them is a fantastic mental workout. You can also buy scent work kits.

🐾Training Sessions: Teaching new tricks or reinforcing old commands provides mental stimulation and strengthens your bond.

🐾 Snuffle Mats: These mats allow dogs to use their sense of smell to search for hidden food, which is a very enriching experience.

🐾Indoor Games: Fetch in a hallway or large room. Tug-of-war or even Hide-and-seek.

🐾 Set up a mini agility course in your garden space.

🐾 Visit a freedom field

Of course, regular exercise is essential, but it doesn't always have to be the same old routine. Mix it up! Your dog (and you!) might just love it.

What are your favorite indoor dog activities? Share them below! 👇

01/04/2025

🐱🐱🐱New Behaviour Programme ALERT!
Put the WOOF back in your dog.

It is becoming increasingly common for dogs to think they are cats. This causes a number of problems when you try to train your dog.

My new programme removes the meow from your dog, and helps them remember that they are, in fact, a dog.

Does your dog do any of the following
🐱Sleeping in unusual places
🐱Climbing on top of cupboards and shelves.
🐱Kneading their beds or your legs.
🐱Starting intense staring contests.
🐱Butting their head against your legs or furniture
🐱Started to purr or meow

I can help undo these and much more!

You can finally have your DOG BACK!
Ping me an email [email protected]

31/03/2025

⭐️5 start review from Oppsie and her human - Colour me Happy!⭐️

Oopsie is a lovely girl, who was struggling when out on walks. She was great throughout the training and was even able to enjoy a walk with my dog Ally!

This is what they have to say.

"I recently had the pleasure of working with Suzanne, a knowledgeable and compassionate dog behaviorist, to help my Bosnian rescue, Oopsie. Oopsie is fearful of most things, including people and other dogs.

From the start, Suzanne took the time to fully understand Oopsie’s situation and provided helpful information and practical techniques tailored to her needs. Every session was followed by clear, detailed notes that I could refer back to whenever needed. Suzanne’s patience and gentle approach made the sessions enjoyable for us both.

Thanks to her guidance, Oopsie has made significant progress in building her confidence. Although our formal sessions have now ended we continue to practice the techniques that Suzanne taught us and I know that I can contact Suzanne if we need help. We now take part in Suzanne’s group walks which are fantastic and offer a safe and supportive environment for Oopsie to socialise with other dogs.

In addition to her hands-on expertise, I highly recommend Suzanne’s book, The Rescue Dog Rangers Road Map. I’ve just recommended it to friends who are about to adopt a rescue dog and they said they wished they had read it years ago when they had their first dog.

I can’t recommend Suzanne highly enough and am so grateful to have found her."

If you would like help with your rescue dog, ping me and email [email protected] and we can have a chat.

Address

Edinburgh
EH65LD

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 6pm
Tuesday	9am - 6pm
Wednesday	9am - 6pm
Thursday	9am - 6pm
Friday	9am - 6pm

Website

http://www.edinburghholisticdogs.co.uk/

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"Why give your dog average when they can have unique adventures"...

Hey There I am Suzanne, Owner of Edinburgh Holistic Dogs specialising in Training and walking Rescued/Adopted Dogs and Dogs who are Nervours or Reactive. I’ve earned the title of The Rescue Dog Ranger™, having written the book about everything you need to help your rescue dog.

My business is inspired by my life with my own Old English Sheepdogs there have been a few but I currently share my life with Erick and Ally (thats Erick in the photo with me).

I offer unique Adventure Filled Dog Walks and Practically Perfect Dog Training. Let me show you how you can teach and train your 4 legged family member.

Are you a new, inexperienced or nervous rescue dog owner?