Haigh Hounds

01/09/2024

Cooperative care - Also known as consent dog training offers two way communication - numerous benefits that can make a significant difference in your dog's wellbeing and your relationship with them. Here's why it's worth considering:

Reduces Stress During Grooming and Vet Visits: Cooperative care training teaches dogs to be more comfortable and cooperative during grooming, vet visits, and other handling situations. This reduces stress for both the dog and the handler, making these experiences smoother and less anxiety-inducing.

Builds Trust and Strengthens Your Bond: By involving your dog in their own care, you build a stronger bond based on trust and mutual understanding. Your dog learns to trust that you'll respect their boundaries, and you'll gain confidence in handling them in sensitive situations.

Enhances Your Dog's Confidence: As your dog learns they have some control over their care, their confidence grows. They become more relaxed and willing to participate in grooming, medical exams, and other necessary care activities.

Improves Behaviour in Challenging Situations: Cooperative care training can help address behavioural issues that arise from fear or discomfort during handling. By teaching your dog to remain calm and engaged, you're more likely to avoid struggles and reactive behaviours.
Promotes Long-Term Health: Regular, stress-free care is essential for maintaining your dog's health. With cooperative care training, routine tasks like nail trimming, ear cleaning, or dental care become more manageable, leading to better overall health for your dog.

If you're interested in cooperative care training, I'm here to help you get started. Let's work together to make your dog's care routine a positive experience! ⬇️

01/09/2024

SEPTEMBER! My fave month - and the start of the BER months!
Last offer - Puppy combo 9 week package
⭐️121 can be used before or after class blackjack for either starting pre vaccination or taking what we have learned out into the real world environment
⭐️5 week “easy peasy” pup class at out indoor venue
⭐️Whatsapp support if you would like it
⭐️Handouts for common puppy issues - send me your email address

30/08/2024

Last session today - We wanted to train in a busier environment but accidentally ended up at Haigh Foodie Friday so it would be rude not to stop for a pup cup! Getting my spaniel fix! He did awesome!

30/08/2024

So pleased to of had the chance to help Andi and her human. Reactivity training - our last session today and we ventured to today. A lovely relaxed session.

30/08/2024

Hands up! Who else has got that Friday feeling - it’s not just these too!

29/08/2024

Absolute cutie for loose lead training - Such a white westie!
We have ✅A teenager ✅Extremely sociable!

Plan
🐾⬇️arousal levels
🐾⬆️Increase value in being close to mum
🐾⬇️value in the environment
🐾Calm on leaving the house
🐾Proximity and focus games
🐾Three exercises to see if the “thinking brain” is in play
………🐾and then the loose lead exercises in low distraction areas and building as our little west ie could tolerate

29/08/2024

Fab organisation

🌟 NEW PROFESSIONAL PARTNER ALERT 🌟
Welcome to Haigh Hounds who has just had their listing approved on Wooflinks 💛🐾

Emily is a huge advocate for science based training, and her business is dedicated to "helping humans speak dog" with positive reinforcement!

Her accreditations include:
✅ IMDT easy Peasy Puppy instructor
✅ Canine Reactivity specialist and DCT-CDT
✅ WSDA Scentwork instructor
✅ ISCP level 6 Advanced Behaviour Studies.

Please join me in welcoming her to our community! 🐶

You can view her Wooflinks Professional Profile here:
https://wooflinks.co.uk/listing/haigh-hounds/

28/08/2024

Blind retrieves ending our 121 Fun gundog exercises.
I love this exercise - even in the rain…….but not as much as cooper!

28/08/2024

When you hear me talking about meeting your dogs needs………This ⬇️ from KarmaK9 Dog Training Essex sums it up beautifully

Dogs, much like humans, thrive when their physical, mental, and emotional needs are met. While regular physical exercise is crucial for keeping a dog healthy, it's only part of the equation for their overall well-being. Mental stimulation and enrichment are equally important, particularly in reducing reactivity and frustration, which can lead to undesirable behaviours.

**The Role of Enrichment in a Dog's Life**

Enrichment involves providing activities that engage a dog's brain, stimulate their senses, and satisfy their natural instincts. This can include puzzle toys, scent work, training exercises, or even just exploring new environments. When a dog is mentally stimulated, they are less likely to develop behavioural problems, such as excessive barking, chewing, or aggression, which often stem from boredom and frustration.

**Reducing Reactivity Through Mental Stimulation**

Reactivity in dogs, often seen as over-excitement, anxiety, or aggression in response to certain stimuli, is commonly rooted in stress or insufficient outlets for energy. By engaging a dog in mentally challenging activities, you provide them with a positive way to channel their energy and focus. This can help reduce their sensitivity to triggers that might otherwise provoke a reactive response.

For instance, teaching a dog new commands or tricks not only stimulates their mind but also builds their confidence and strengthens the bond between dog and owner. This sense of accomplishment can reduce the anxiety that often fuels reactivity. Furthermore, mentally engaged dogs are typically more tired and relaxed, making them less likely to overreact to external stimuli.

**Balancing Physical Exercise and Mental Enrichment**

While physical exercise is essential, relying solely on it without incorporating mental stimulation can lead to a dog that is physically tired but still mentally unsatisfied. This imbalance can contribute to frustration and subsequent behavioural issues. Incorporating enrichment activities, such as interactive toys, food puzzles, or scent games, ensures that a dog's mind is as well-exercised as their body.

Additionally, routine training sessions or engaging in dog sports like agility or nose work can provide both mental and physical outlets. These activities allow dogs to use their natural instincts in a controlled and positive way, reducing pent-up frustration that could otherwise manifest as reactivity.

**Long-Term Benefits of a Well-Rounded Routine**

A well-rounded routine that includes both mental and physical stimulation promotes a calmer, more balanced dog. It can also prevent or alleviate behaviour problems that may arise from boredom or under-stimulation. By addressing both aspects of your dog's needs, you help them lead a more fulfilling life, reducing their stress and improving their overall behaviour.

In summary, while regular exercise is vital, it is the combination of physical activity and mental enrichment that truly contributes to a dog's well-being. By ensuring that dogs have opportunities to use their brains as well as their bodies, owners can help prevent reactivity and frustration, leading to a happier, healthier, and more harmonious life with their canine companions.

28/08/2024

Today is rainbow bridge remembrance day - Thinking of our soul dogs out there xx

Samson, I lost him last year at 15! My first setter. I’d finished my 12 hour shift as a nurse and come home to a hiccuping box under the xmas tree with the craziest pup in!

I still miss him every day xx

Tell me your stories ⬇️

27/08/2024

NEXT SEPTEMBER OFFER - FREE portable kit for the first 5 clients

27/08/2024

Sharing request from a friend - Please take a look

Hi everyone, My name is Naomi (a single dog Mum) and I’m reaching out wi… naomi jones needs your support for Help Me Save Nala: My Beloved Goldador's Fight

27/08/2024

reshareing as offer ending today

SUMMER OFFER with an IMDT pup trainer - 9 week 121 and group combo

✅REMOTE SUPPORT
As with all training options, this package is supported with between session whatsapp contact so send your questions in and homework videos for feedback or progress updates

✅4 weekly 121
For pups awaiting vaccination and wanting to start training ASAP without the distraction of other pups. Exercises and support adapted to the individual. Real world training if vaccinated.

✅5 week group course (Wrightington venue)
Put everything into practice from your private sessions, learn to work, focus and build confidence around other dogs. Small class sizes

✅optional Pre pup support call for those awaiting their new arrival - we can answer questions around equipment, home setup, sleeping and toileting, home alone protocols, introducing to family and pets ect

✅A copy of the UK No1 best seller “easy peasy puppy squeezy”

✅A free socialisation guide for pups under 16 weeks

27/08/2024

Two september offers being released today!

FIRST

5 tailored 121 sessions for the price of 4 (Limited availability )
⭐️Free phone consultation
⭐️Tailored lesson plan
⭐️easy to follow homework
⭐️whatsapp support between sessions
⭐️Real world training
⭐️Fit around your schedule
⭐️Optional add on - training walk if life gets busy and you struggle to keep training consistent - Included feed back and handover session

Watch this space for this evenings! - Clues coming soon

26/08/2024

GETTING A NEW PUP? - Useful links and recommendations in the post

This cute fella is Paddy as a pup. This is how he explored the world until he was vaccinated. We exposed him to as many variations of
✅Dogs
✅People
✅weather
✅Environments
✅Time of day
✅Vehicles
✅Explore new textures
Unlike training, exposure to environments or “socialisation” and “habituation” is against the clock - It’s key to building a confident canine,

I stock the puppy socialisation checklist from The Dog Trainer School for pups under 16 weeks. 👋 If you would like one included with your training package free.

Meeting your dogs needs - Look at what your dog was bred to do. A fab book i recommend from Charlotte Garner - Canine Author is Essential Enricjment - How to improve your dogs life. https://charlotte-garner.com/books

SNUFFLE BOX - One fab this to do…….and if you’ve worked with me already you’ll know i’m snuggle crazy…….is to make a snuggle box. A cardboard box with treats or kibble grown in amongst various textures and objects to explore, Sounds simple but an excellent way to build confidence and encourage exploration!

Essential training - At this stage there are a few key things i’d recommend - Reflex to name keeping it all positive……..so the one time pups “exploring” the bin, call them anything you like……just not their name. Toilet training……i have various handouts to help with common puppy issues - Message if you need them 👋

EASY PEASY PUPPY SQUEEZY - by Steve Mann (The founder of the institute of modern dog trainers and the guy I did my Puppy instructor qualification with)
Fab book - Honestly!

Easy Peasy Puppy Squeezy: The UK's No.1 Dog Training Book https://amzn.eu/d/45wDitp

Don’t forget i offer various puppy packages with support options from pre-puppy right the way through your journey https://www.haigh-hounds.com/getting-a-new-puppy

24/08/2024

update from two clients with rescue lurchers i’ve worked with previously - I put them in contact with each other as both Eddie and Elfie as amazingly similar
Looks like they are going to be the best of friends 💖

21/08/2024

You lovely lot have kept us busy 6 days a week since my break at Xmas so Paddy and I are putting our paws up until 27th Aug

I have a few hours blocked for some admin and enquiries to get tidied up at some point so i will get back to you then or next tuesday 💖

21/08/2024

Thanks for letting me on your loose lead journey and for the chocolates, gorgeous George

A classic example of where traditional loose lead exercises with high drive working breeds who are impulsive and highly aroused don’t always work

we haven’t used harsh equipment, we’ve just looked at him as an individual, what’s making him pull and how can we help that issue first to help him keep in his thinking brain

⭐️Varied stages of prep games
⭐️Assessments to know when to up the level and when to go back a step
⭐️How to use breed specific fulfilment in training
⭐️how to help him self regulate
⭐️How to help him walk in a straight line……when he just wants to quarter!
⭐️proximity games

In 4 weeks he’s gone from not being able to focus in his own back garden to being able to walk with his humans in Orrell Water Park

Fab progress

21/08/2024

121 packages come with WhatsApp support between sessions
⭐️Don’t struggle and stress until your next session!
⭐️Send me you homework videos and updates!
⭐️We also offer remote 30 min or 1 hour training sessions for those unable to make an inperson session as an added extra

20/08/2024

Ending the day with some sunset recalls

20/08/2024

every time i start a pup 121 i think ”this is the cutest pup ever!”……..but this actually is the cutest pup ever!

20/08/2024

Good advice from BK Veterinary Physiotherapy - Thinking of a special little sausage 🌈 whose mum did all the right things but hopefully this will help others are not

Any dog can become susceptible to this disease but most commonly it is seen in

🐾 Dachshunds
🐾 Pekingese
🐾 Beagles
🐾 Cocker Spaniels
🐾 Shih Tzus
🐾 Basset Hounds

Give Bev a shout if you are considering physio

🌟 Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) 🌟

is a condition in dogs where the discs between the vertebrae (the bones of the spine) start to degenerate or slip out of place. These discs normally act as cushions between the bones, but when they deteriorate or move, they can press on the spinal cord or nerves, causing pain, nerve damage, or even paralysis.

Any dog can become susceptible to this disease but most commonly it is seen in

🐾 Dachshunds
🐾 Pekingese
🐾 Beagles
🐾 Cocker Spaniels
🐾 Shih Tzus
🐾 Basset Hounds

These breeds are more prone to IVDD due to their long backs and short legs, which put extra strain on their spines.

Ways to Avoid IVDD:

🐶 Maintain a Healthy Weight: Extra weight puts additional stress on your dog’s spine.

🐶 Limit Jumping: Discourage your dog from jumping off high surfaces like furniture, out of cars, or jumping to catch balls as this can put sudden pressure on the spine.

🐶 Use Ramps or Stairs: Install ramps or steps for your dog to use when getting on or off furniture or into a car.

🐶 Appropriate exercise: Exercises your dog regularly within an appropriate level difficulty to match the fitness of your dog.

🐶 Proper nutrition: Feed your dog a balanced diet to support overall health, including bone and joint health.

🐶 Regular physiotherapy check ups: exercises to keep your dog’s spine strong and stable can reduce the risk of IVDD and early detection of any spinal issues can help manage the condition before it becomes severe.

20/08/2024

Your training journey

19/08/2024

After an incident this afternoon i felt the need to explain dog trainer facial expressions -

This one means one of two things……
🤞🏼Don’t speak to me unless i’ve had coffee
🤞🏼Kindly put your crazy but adorable red bull fuelled fluff ball on a lead and contact me for some recall training

In this situation, i’m not being rude , I’m speaking up for my clients because they can’t.

The dog approached might be

➡️fearful anxious and reactive - navigating their way through and an over enthusiastic dog is not going to help us building confidence.
➡️frustrated adolescent or a timid new puppies trying to learn that distractions around them are non of their business
➡️Older with physical limitations who need thier space
➡️I don’t like hugs from people outside of my household unless they are fur covered….not all dogs like bum sniffs…..or being pounces on and not every dog has the skills to communicate this
➡️Rescue dog trying to adjust to a whole new life
➡️High drive impulsive dog who might have taken the majority of the session to get into a thinking state and don’t welcome the distraction

xx

19/08/2024

Proud! This was a fab session. This little lady has really struggled and on our first day i couldn’t get close - very nervous around certain triggers
Today we’ve been at Haigh Woodland Park - Nice and early before it got too busy
✅Always letting her take the lead at her own pace, working under threshold and absolutely never putting her somewhere she shows any changes in her body language
✅Body language - remember, a waggy tail does not always mean things are ok. We have to look at the whole dog and take things into context
✅Managing arousal - Decompression, rest days,
✅”Secret stalking”…..If you’ve worked with me it’ll make sense

19/08/2024

Butter wouldn’t melt……until he pinched my knickers of the laundry rack and gave them to the plumber!
Tell me your most embarrassing dog story ⬇️

18/08/2024

Google review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Eddie is such a sweet rescue lurcher - he has been through a lot of changes and his background is unknown. Rescue dogs often come with the rule of 3:3:3

3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to learn a new routine, 3 months to fully settle - This is just a guide!

We helped Eddie to build his confidence out and about as he was rather anxious in certain spots and around certain triggers (Ie - A person carrying something - umbrella / walking stick ect) .

He also displayed signed of frustration and we worked to find the fine balance between breed specific outlets, balancing rest/sleep and lowering arousal.

Key points
✅Vet check
✅Working at his pace and letting him take the lead
✅Interpreting his body language and learning to speak “Eddie”.
✅Breed specific outlets - When and where to do these
✅Working on long line for recall practice and time “being more dog”
✅looking at proving a safe space away from visual stimulus to promote sleep and decompression
✅Calming activities (Licking sniffing and chewing)

Support between sessions is all part of the package and i’m so glad to hear it was helpful here x

18/08/2024

i definitely recommend this for all you collie owners out there……..and it’s free

17/08/2024

Still space on our Wrightington 4th September puppy group and new 121 puppy package slots available around your schedule with support between sessions.
Love getting homework updates!

15/08/2024

My seriously ridiculously happy time! - Watch out - My BER month offers revealed soon

🍁Dog walks through crunch leaves
🍂Stunning colours
🍁Sweater days and chilly nights
🍂conker collecting
🍁All things pumpkin