Scottish Canine Wellness at Duffys - Dog Training West Lothian

11/03/2025

We have to remember the good when the bad is happening - and if it get’s too much for you - think like your dog, one moment to the next. Concentrate on the present - for it is all we truly have. ❤️

Time spent with your dog is ‘life nourishment’. 🤗🐶🤗

10/03/2025

Who is going to join us for our first Spring Social Walk for 2025?

⭐️ Just £12 per dog
⭐️ Practice lead & recall skills around other dogs
⭐️ Get advice from a qualified trainer
⭐️ Meet fellow dog people
⭐️ A walk in lovely nature

Sunday 16 March @ 11.30am. Suitable from 5 months up.

🐾 Grab your space: https://www.bookinglive.io/c/duffys/book/c59bde2a-3ff8-61ed-754f-c2bf0f069a69?

10/03/2025

Monday - here you are 🤪

09/03/2025

Crufts is always a mixed bag for me. While I’ve never been a huge fan, I do see its value. I prefer to see dogs in more natural settings, and some of the handling and body language on display can be uncomfortable to watch.

But at the same time, it opens up important discussions about welfare, ethical training, and how we can continue to raise standards for dogs.

Many fellow professionals attend, and I completely understand why—it’s the UK’s biggest celebration of dogs, and there’s a real opportunity to showcase kind, ethical training and connect with a wider audience.

So while it’s not for me, I do appreciate the conversations it sparks and the positive influence that many are working hard to bring into the space.

09/03/2025

Humility: The Quiet Strength in Teaching

Humility is one of the most underrated yet essential qualities in working with dogs. It’s the quiet strength that allows us to admit when something isn’t working, to learn from our dogs, and to adjust our approach without ego getting in the way. ⭐️

It’s easy to fall into the trap of should.
“My dog should know this by now.”
“They should be able to cope with this situation.”
“I should be doing better.”

But humility means letting go of ‘should’ and embracing what is. It means meeting dogs where they are, not where we expect them to be. Progress isn’t about forcing a timeline - it’s about learning together, adjusting as needed, and recognising that every challenge is an opportunity to deepen trust. 🐶❤️

As dog trainers, humility also means recognising that no matter how much experience we have, there is always more to learn. Every dog, every guardian, every situation teaches us something new.

A good trainer doesn’t have all the answers—a great one knows they never will.

As Epictetus wisely said, “It is impossible for a man to learn what he thinks he already knows.”

The best teaching happens when we step back, listen, and allow our dogs to show us the way. The more we let go of expectations, the more we open the door for real connection.

Humility isn’t weakness—it’s the foundation of true understanding.😍

08/03/2025

✨ International Women’s Day ✨

To the women who show up every day—not just for people, but for the dogs who need them. The ones who lead with kindness, who listen before they speak, who advocate for the voiceless, and who know that real strength is found in patience, compassion, and understanding.

To the women who teach, rescue, rehabilitate, and walk alongside dogs with unwavering dedication.

To the women who trust their instincts, keep learning, and create space for both dogs and humans to feel safe, seen, and supported.

Today, we celebrate you. 💛

08/03/2025

07/03/2025

Level 1 class starting Monday - an info email has been sent to attendees (check junk if not in inbox) Look forward to seeing you on Monday 🐾❤️

07/03/2025

Well done to our super Visitor Manners Made Easy Graduates. They aced their second class last night and are on their way to being calmer with visitor arrivals. 🐶🐶🐶❤️❤️❤️🐾🐾🐾

07/03/2025

A 121 session with this gorgeous girlie Zuri. Helping her to be calmer when guests arrive. She did very well, next session we will go to her own home. As I think she thought I was a vet and something was going to happen to her.
Sometimes dogs who are not keen going to the vets associate the training centre (smells of dogs etc) with the vets. And that’s fine if they are unable to be comfortable in the centre, we can do the session in their home or somewhere else they are more comfortable . ❤️🐾

07/03/2025

💭 A QUESTION YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOU NEEDED TO ANSWER…

If your dog could write a brutally honest review about you, what would it say? 🤔

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
“10/10, would follow to the ends of the earth. Treats are great, belly rubs are better.” – A Very Happy Dog

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
“Not bad. Needs to stop saying ‘walkies’ and then putting shoes on for 5 minutes first.” – Slightly Frustrated Dog

⭐️ ⭐️
“Knows how to open the fridge but won’t share. Also keeps saying ‘sit’ when I’m already sitting???” – Confused but Hopeful Dog

Drop your dog’s honest review below! 👇🐶

06/03/2025

Celebrating Jacqui and Cooper’s Transformative Journey! ⭐️

A heartfelt shoutout to Jacqui for her unwavering dedication to enhancing her walks with Cooper, her spirited Welsh Terrier. 🐾

Through consistent effort and innovative engagement strategies, their outings have transformed to interactive outings where Cooper listens and wants to engage and recall back to Jacqui. 🐶❤️

Incorporating interactive games that Cooper loves, Jacqui has tapped into Cooper’s natural instincts, turning challenges into bonding opportunities.

Their story is a testament to the special bond between a dog and their guardian.

Here’s to many more joyful and engaging walks ahead!  😀🐕



06/03/2025

🌟 Looking for personalised support for you and your dog? 🌟

My 1:1 teaching sessions are designed to meet you and your dog exactly where you are. Whether you’re working through a specific challenge, looking to strengthen your bond, or just need tailored guidance, I’m here to help.

Together, we’ll create a plan that’s kind, effective, and suited to both your needs. No judgment—just understanding, support, and solutions that work for you and your dog.

Ready to get started? Let’s chat! 🐾

05/03/2025

Puppy class ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

05/03/2025

A great first session with the wonderful Heidi 🐾
We unpacked a few things that may be going on with her, causing certain behaviours. Looking forward to being able to help her and her guardian ❤️

05/03/2025

Puppy class complete… but the journey’s just begun! 🐾

Completing a puppy course is a commendable first step, but it’s essential to recognise that training is an ongoing process that extends beyond basic cues.

Here’s why continued training is crucial for your dog’s development and well-being:

1. Reinforce and Build Upon Existing Skills

Regular training sessions reinforce learned behaviours and introduce new cues, ensuring your dog remains mentally stimulated and engaged.

2. Prevent the Emergence of Behavioural Issues

Early and consistent training can significantly reduce the likelihood of developing unwanted behaviours, such as aggression or excessive barking.

3. Strengthen the Human-Dog Bond

Ongoing training fosters mutual trust and respect, deepening the bond between you and your dog. 

4. Enhance Socialisation Skills

Continued exposure to new environments, people, and other dogs through training classes ensures your dog remains well-adjusted and confident.

5. Promote Physical and Mental Well-being

Engaging in regular training provides both physical exercise and mental stimulation, contributing to your dog’s overall health and happiness.

Ready to Continue the Journey?

We offer a variety of classes tailored to support your dog’s ongoing development:
🐾 Level 1 classes: Enhance basic training with advanced techniques, focusing on recalls, door manners, loose lead walking, and more.
🐾 Loose Lead Walking: A focused 3-hour workshop to master stress-free walks.
🐾Recall Workshop: Improve your dog’s recall abilities amidst distractions during this intensive 3-hour session.
🐾Scent work: Tap into your dog’s favourite activity - sniffing. Helps promote calm, builds confidence and is great for bonding
🐾Social Walks - 1 hour walks focusing on lead, recall and social skills.
🐾One-to-One Training: Personalised sessions tailored to address specific behavioural needs and training goals.

And more! 😀

Located in West Lothian, we offer flexible training options to suit your schedule. Whether you’re looking to refine specific skills or embark on new adventures with your dog, we have the perfect class for you.

Let’s continue this journey together! 🐶

🐶Contact us today to enrol in the next phase of your dog’s training.