Puppy PlayBarn Dog Behaviour & Training

08/10/2025

These are the dates for our upcoming 4 week Agility courses. This class is suitable for dogs of all ages and cover from basic to advanced. Our Agility season finishes in November and re-starts in March next year.
Booking is through our website puppyplaybarn.co.uk

07/10/2025

These are the start dates for our upcoming Life Skills 5 week course which is an intermediate class for dogs of any age that already have a good understanding of all basic commands. Booking is through our website puppyplaybarn.co.uk

06/10/2025

These are the start dates for our 5 week basic obedience course which is suitable for friendly dogs/puppies under 18 months. Booking is through the website puppyplaybarn.co.uk

06/10/2025

Of course we are listed!

Looking for a dog trainer?
We know it can feel overwhelming — but with APDT you don’t need to worry. Every APDT Member has already been independently assessed to the highest standards of knowledge, skills, and ethics.

That means you can be confident your trainer uses kind, fair, and effective methods you can trust.

Qualified dog trainers
Professionally assessed
Ready to help you and your dog

Find your local trainer today: www.apdt.co.uk/apdt-dog-trainer

05/10/2025

Controversial Opinion Alert #7 ‼️

Dogs don’t “grow out of” bad behaviour they grow INTO it.

That cute puppy who jumps up at everyone?
The adolescent who barks at every dog on a walk?
The one who guards toys “just a little bit”?

They don’t just magically stop with age.
They don’t “mature out of it.”
And no, it’s not just a “phase.”

What actually happens is those little behaviours become habits… and habits become serious problems.

Training isn’t something you “wait until they’re older” for. It starts on day one.

Ignore it now, deal with it ten times harder later.

05/10/2025

Did you pick your puppy… or did your puppy pick you? 💛

It’s one of our favourite questions to ask new puppy parents because every story is different! Some fall for the bold little explorer who runs straight up to say hello, while others are chosen by the quiet one who sits patiently waiting for a cuddle. 🥹

When you’re choosing from a litter, it’s tempting to go for the one that runs to you first but that’s not always the best match for your lifestyle. A confident pup might suit an active, busy home, while a calmer puppy could thrive in a quieter family setting.

Remember, the “right” puppy isn’t always the loudest or the prettiest, it’s the one whose temperament and energy match your world. 💛

📸 Tell us how did you pick your puppy (or did they pick you)? We’d love to hear your story below!

05/10/2025

Seeing training from a whole new perspective! 👀Trish guiding one of our not so confident pups through the tunnel, where trust, teamwork and plenty of treats make all the difference.”

05/10/2025

Our trainer Trish has a soft spot for the Bully breeds and it’s safe to say the feeling’s mutual! 💚 She’s convinced this beautiful girl was meant to come home with her!”

04/10/2025

When the training cones become the main event in the high winds 💨😂”

04/10/2025

Proud little face alert 🥹💛 Well done, Pepsi

03/10/2025

What Type of Dog Training Do You Need?

Are you wondering what type of dog training would be the best fit for you and your dog? Look no further! Here at Puppy PlayBarn, we offer a variety of specialised programs tailored to meet the unique needs of dogs and their owners. Check out our offerings:

1️⃣ Little Rascals: Perfect for puppies and young dogs, this class focuses on basic obedience and socialisation skills. Give your pup the foundation they need to grow into a well-mannered companion!

2️⃣ Little Growlers: If your dog is showing signs of aggression or reactivity, our Little Growlers classes is designed specifically for them. Our experienced trainers will work closely with you and your dog to help manage and modify those behaviours.

3️⃣ Agility Training: Looking for a fun way to keep your dog active? Our agility classes are not only entertaining but also a fantastic way to bond with your dog while enhancing their physical fitness and mental sharpness.

4️⃣ 1:1 Training: Need something more personalised? Our 1:1 training sessions provide bespoke training tailored to your dog's specific needs and challenges. You'll get the focused attention necessary to address any concerns.

5️⃣ Drop & Leave Training: Experience our gold standard in dog training! With this program, our trainers take the reins, allowing you to drop off your dog for training while we do the hard work. It's a convenient option for busy owners!

6️⃣ Home Visits: Sometimes, the best training happens at home. Our home visit consultations focus on behaviour issues in your dog’s familiar environment, making it easier for them to learn and adapt.

No matter what challenges you’re facing or what goals you have for your dog, we’re here to help!

Check out our website today to learn more about our programs or to schedule a consultation or class
puppyplaybarn.co.uk

02/10/2025

Thinking of buying a puppy? Please read this first…

When you go to see a litter of puppies, it’s all too easy to fall in love and make a quick decision. But remember your puppy will hopefully be with you for the next 12–15 years, so taking the time to do your homework now is essential.

Here are some things to check before committing:

✅ Health checks: Ask about the parents’ health tests (hips, elbows, eyes, DNA panels relevant to the breed). Don’t be afraid to ask for proof.

✅ Puppy health: Watch how the puppies move, walk, and interact. A healthy puppy should be alert, balanced, and playful. If a puppy shows anything unusual, struggles to walk straight, or seems weak compared to littermates, ask questions.

✅ Vet visits: Every puppy should have been checked by a vet before going to their new home. Don’t just take the breeder’s word for it, ask to see the paperwork.

✅ See the parents: Always meet the mother, and ideally the father too. The parents should be calm and approachable , avoid buying from litters where the mother or father shows aggression.

✅ Microchipping & vaccinations: Puppies must be microchipped by law before leaving the breeder. They should also have had a vet health check, and may have received their first vaccination. If so, always ask for the vaccination record so your vet can continue the course.

✅ Environment: Puppies should be raised in a clean, safe space where they are used to everyday household sounds and experiences.

✅ The breeder: A good breeder will ask you questions too because they want the best homes for their puppies.

🚩 If something doesn’t feel right, walk away. A “cute face” now can sadly lead to heartbreak later if there are underlying health or behavioural issues.
Please do your research, ask the awkward questions, and don’t feel pressured to make a decision on the spot.