Dog Training the Glenturret Way

12/07/2024

Piper

22/03/2024

13/02/2024

13/02/2024

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03/02/2024

Starting Your Gundog on Dummy Retrieves: Setting Them Up for Success
Welcome to the exciting journey of training your gundog for dummy retrieves! This leaflet is designed to provide you with essential tips on how to set your gundog up for success, fostering a positive learning environment while understanding that setbacks are a natural part of the training process.
1. Start Slowly: Begin by introducing your gundog to the concept of retrieving dummies in a calm and controlled environment. Start with short distances and gradually increase the difficulty as your dog becomes more confident.
2. Positive Reinforcement: Use plenty of praise and rewards to encourage your gundog during training sessions. Positive reinforcement helps reinforce desired behaviours and builds a strong bond between you and your dog.
3. Patience is Key: Remember that every dog learns at their own pace. Be patient and understanding and avoid becoming frustrated if progress seems slow. Consistency and perseverance are essential for success.
4. Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that your gundog may not get everything right from the start. Set realistic goals and celebrate small achievements along the way. Focus on progress rather than perfection.
5. Create a Safe Learning Environment: Ensure that the training area is safe and free from distractions that could hinder your gundog's focus. Minimize potential sources of stress to help your dog stay relaxed and engaged during training sessions.
6. Keep Training Sessions Short and Fun: Dogs have short attention spans, so keep training sessions brief and enjoyable. End on a positive note to leave your gundog eager for the next session.
7. Adapt and Adjust: Be flexible in your training approach and willing to adapt based on your gundog's individual needs and progress. What works for one dog may not work for another, so be prepared to adjust your methods accordingly.
8. Don't Be Afraid of Setbacks: Mistakes and setbacks are a natural part of the learning process. Instead of dwelling on failures, use them as opportunities to learn and grow together with your gundog. Remember, it's all part of the journey.
9. Seek Professional Guidance if Needed: If you encounter challenges that you're unable to overcome on your own, don't hesitate to seek guidance from a professional gundog trainer. They can provide expert advice and support tailored to your specific situation.
10. Enjoy the Journey: Training your gundog for dummy retrieves is a rewarding experience that strengthens the bond between you and your furry companion. Embrace the ups and downs of the training process, and most importantly, have fun along the way!

Remember, starting your gundog out on dummy retrieves is about setting them up succeed, not to fail. Stay patient, stay positive, and enjoy the journey ahead!
Dog Training the Glenturret Way

16/01/2024

30/10/2023

Training your dog is not a one-time effort but a lifelong journey that strengthens the bond between you and your dog. A well-trained dog is a joy to be around, a source of pride, and a loving companion who enriches your life in countless ways. So, embark on this adventure of training, learn together, and enjoy the many benefits of having a well-mannered canine companion by your side.

18/10/2023

Calming Your Canine Companion: A Guide to Stress-Free Car Travel
Introduction:
Does your furry friend become anxious or excited when it's time to get in or out of the car? Traveling with a stressed-out dog can be challenging but fear not! This leaflet will provide you with practical tips and techniques to help calm your dog during car journeys.
1. Create Positive Associations:
- Start by associating the car with positive experiences. Allow your dog to explore the car without leaving it running. Offer treats and praise to make it a fun place to be.
2. Gradual Introductions:
- Don't rush the process. Begin with short trips around the block to familiarize your dog with car travel. Slowly increase the duration of these trips.
3. Comfortable Seating:
- Invest in a quality pet seatbelt or carrier to secure your dog during the journey. Make sure they are safe and comfortable.
4. Familiar Scents:
- Place your dog's favourite blanket or toy in the car. The familiar scent can provide comfort and reassurance.
5. Practice Calm Entry and Exit:
- Teach your dog to enter and exit the car calmly. Use commands like "Wait" and "Stay" during the process. Reward them for following these commands.
6. Counterconditioning:
- If your dog is extremely anxious, try counterconditioning. This involves rewarding your dog for calm behaviour around the car. Gradually increase the rewards for staying relaxed.
7. Short Drives with Breaks:
- For longer trips, plan breaks to let your dog stretch, relieve themselves, and have a drink of water. These breaks can reduce travel-related stress.
8. Stay Calm Yourself:
- Dogs can pick up on your emotions. Stay calm and composed during the entire process. Avoid displaying anxiety or impatience.
9. Car Safety:
- Ensure your dog's safety during the drive. Use proper restraints to prevent them from moving around the car, which can cause anxiety.
10. Consult a Professional:
- If your dog's anxiety persists, consult a professional dog trainer or a veterinarian for expert guidance and advice.
Conclusion:
Calm car travel with your dog is achievable with patience, practice, and positive reinforcement. By following these tips, you can help your furry friend enjoy car rides and reduce their anxiety. Safe and stress-free journeys await both you and your beloved canine companion. Happy travels!
Andrew Durrant

18/10/2023

"Firework Fear Resolution: Preparing Your Puppy for a Stress-Free Future"
Introduction: Fireworks – they can be either loved or loathed. However, regardless of your stance on these dazzling displays, it's vital to address any fears or anxieties your puppy may have. Starting early is key, as it takes dedication and patience to help your furry friend overcome these concerns. In this leaflet, we'll guide you through a step-by-step plan to ensure your puppy remains calm and fearless when fireworks light up the sky.
Understanding Puppy Responses: Puppies, like people, have varying responses to new experiences. Some take everything in stride, while others may become anxious over the slightest changes. If your puppy falls into the latter category, don't wait until the week before fireworks night. Loud noises can leave a lasting impact on your dog's well-being. Prevention is undoubtedly better than a cure.
How to Help Your Puppy: The most effective way to ensure your puppy doesn't fear fireworks or loud noises is by creating positive associations with them. Through a process known as systematic desensitization and counter conditioning, you can make this happen. Be prepared; it's an 8-12 week journey.
Step 1: Start with Sounds
1. Begin without your dog in the room.
2. Download and play the FREE Sounds Scary tracks from the Dog Trust website.
3. Choose the sounds that are least scary for your dog to start.
4. Keep the volume extremely low, barely audible.
5. Stay vigilant for any signs of anxiety in your dog.
6. Use high-value treats like liver cake, cheese, roast chicken, or sausage.
Week 1:
• Click on the sound at the lowest volume.
• As soon as you hear the first sound, start feeding your dog with a titbit.
• Repeat this for every sound.
• When the sounds stop, put the treats away.
Week 2:
• If your dog showed no reaction in week 1, increase the volume slightly.
• Repeat the same process.
• Treat with a titbit at each new sound.
• Stop feeding when the sounds end.
Week 3:
• Raise the volume one more notch.
• Continue with the process.
• If your dog reacts, stop, and reduce the sound level.
• Take your time; there's no rush.
Week 4-8:
• By now, your dog should be looking at you as soon as the sounds start.
• This is a positive sign that your dog is connecting the noise with treats.
• Keep increasing the sound level weekly.
• Your dog should appear relaxed and eager, not worried, even when the sounds are clearly audible.
Conclusion: Remember that each dog is unique, and some may progress faster than others. It's essential to remain patient and attentive throughout this process. By starting now, you can help your puppy build positive associations with loud noises, ensuring a future free of fear and anxiety. Have fun, engage with your puppy, and you'll both enjoy many happy years together!
Andrew Durrant

13/08/2023

two quick memories this morning

20/06/2023

The Southern Flat Coated Retriever Club will be running a Royal Kennel Club Good Citizen Testing day on the 20th August 2023 for Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. This will be held at Buriton near Petersfield, Hampshire.

Each test will cost £10.

If you are interested please email [email protected] and I will send you further information. You are able to do more than one test with the same dog on the day.

06/06/2023

I'm so excited to announce the next ThinkDog! Practical Course

Join me, Sarah for a life-changing experience at Battersea, Old Windsor on 12th & 13th October 2023!

This two-day practical canine handling and training course is designed to help those who have some theoretical knowledge learn modern handling and 'clean clicker training' techniques in a supportive and enjoyable atmosphere with Sarah Whitehead and colleagues - some of the UK's leading behaviour and training experts.
We assess and train dogs in a rehoming centre, to maximise handling and clicker training experience with unknown dogs.

It's enlightening, inspirational, motivational and...brilliant fun!

Book here: https://sarahwhitehead.lpages.co/thinkdog-practical-oct-2023/

05/06/2023

Learning to walk perfectly on the lead!

One of the best things about the THINKDOG! practical course is that Sarah demonstrates how to start all aspects of positive reinforcement training, often with dogs that have never had training before!

Message me if you would like to join the next LIVE and in-person course!

04/06/2023

creating Steadiness

04/06/2023

steadness

28/05/2023

28/05/2023

in the garden trying to relax 😂

27/05/2023

grown

29/04/2023