Poppet's Dog Training

31/08/2024

🐾 “Don’t force it!” How you can be confident in your dog trainer.
Do you know about force-free dog training?
Do you know what research says about different training techniques?
Good news! We’re here to help you.
Force-free training puts the question ‘why?’ at the heart of everything a trainer does.
Dogs show feelings, hold values and build meaningful relationships; force-free trainers have absolute clarity on this. They’re active participants in building connection, seeking ways to show love to their human family through loyalty and affection, and responding to our emotions.
And they’re happiest when we are too.
So, it follows with training. Safety, consistency and rewards are the tools to harness these instincts and guide their natural enthusiasm.
Poppets Dog Training provide force-free, research-led, reward-based training. We also want to help you make the best decisions for your four-legged family member, so we’ve written a blog to share our insight into best practice dog training methods.
Take a look. It’s a gift from Poppets Dog Training.
Time for a walk…
Rachel, Owner at Poppets Dog Training
https://www.poppetsdogtraining.co.uk/post/dog-training-methods-what-you-need-to-know
__________
Need a good dog trainer, have questions or need some advice?
Visit the Poppets website and get in touch

Dog training methods vary, but which is best? Discover why Poppets Dog Training, Nuneaton uses force-free training as best practice for your dog.

28/08/2024

So proud of this little lady and her owner.

As a volunteer trainer for VETERANS WITH DOGS I have been working with this pairing towards this cutie becoming an assistance dog for her owner.

She has just passed her stage 2 and is now working on the last stage and public access work.

Well done! 😊🐾

26/08/2024

A heart warming review, this little chap and his family had been through a traumatic few weeks that had impacted them all. Whilst still on his training journey, life is more relaxed for all. 😊🐾

We reached out to poppets earlier on this year , things had been really tense as our dashund had to have spinal surgery and he'd changed, Rachel explained why those changes had happened, and helped us understand what his needs might be, with patience understanding and pain relief, it all fell in to place, he is now a much more confident and happy little boy , and enjoying new experiences and best friends with his housemate again 😀 Thank you poppets

24/08/2024

🐾 And breathe… you’ve found the dog training you can trust.
You know your dog better than anyone.

You see how they feed off your emotions. They respond to your enthusiasm. They’re happiest when you are.

Force-free dog trainers know this too and research shows this approach is best for your dog.

Behaviour change, rather than compliance. Wellbeing, rather than fear.

So, when finding your dog trainer and exploring the techniques and methods they use, here are three key things you want to see:

1. Transparency (no secrets): Ensure you can see and experience a session, ask questions and feel part of the journey.

2. Clear plan: The best trainers are flexible and respond to the needs of your dog, but they will confidently share a direction of travel.

3. Exploring the ‘why’: It’s behaviour change, not just compliance that matters. Research-led trainers focus on the reason behind behaviours.

To help you some more, our recent blog will guide you through different dog training techniques.

https://www.poppetsdogtraining.co.uk/post/dog-training-methods-what-you-need-to-know

Take a look. It’s a gift from Poppets Dog Training.

Time for a walk…

Rachel, Owner at Poppets Dog Training
__________
Need a good dog trainer, have questions or need some advice?

Visit the Poppets website and get in touch

19/08/2024

This little cutie has just completed a course with Poppet's Dog Training.

I was contacted to help with reactivity but that’s not where the training started.

The base to majority of the training we do is teaching calmness and the ability for the pup to think.

This lovely lady pulled ‘like a train’ when we first met and this is the behaviour we tackled first.

Once the walks were more calm and sniffing activities were brought in, we naturally progressed onto teaching her that dogs and people are not there for her and can be ignored, the reactive behaviours have improved immensely.

Through time, patience and consistency this pup and her owners are enjoying relaxing and enjoyable walks.

Get in touch if you need help with your pup pal. 😊🐾

17/08/2024

Silly Saturday

What’s the funniest picture you have of your pup pal? 😊🐾

14/08/2024

🐾 Why do dogs do what they do?

That’s quite a bit of do-do (pun intended).

The answer to this question has shaped dog training methods over the years.

In the past, owners thought our dogs reflected the behaviour we see in wolves, based around the idea of ‘dominate or be dominated.’

The legacy of this is seen in ‘disciplinarian’ training methods. Slip leads, choke collars and any sense of punishment come from this idea of forcing compliance.

Does this behaviour sound like the dogs you know?

Didn’t think so. Pet dogs don’t think or behave like this; they instinctively form mutually beneficial groups and are active in building positive connection with their human family. They’re happiest when we are… and training should harness this brilliant trait.

Take a look at our recent blog post to see why Poppets use force-free, research-led, rewards-based training for best practice.

Which approach feels right to you?

https://www.poppetsdogtraining.co.uk/post/dog-training-methods-what-you-need-to-know

Time for a walk…
Rachel, Owner at Poppets Dog Training
__________
Need a good dog trainer, have questions or need some advice?
Visit the Poppets website and get in touch

10/08/2024

Secure fields are a great addition to any training journey.

Whether you need to build on your confidence around recall, need a quiet space for your anxious pup pal, or just fancy a peaceful walk where you won’t get disturbed.

There are lots of these fields around, some better than others, this is one of my favourites.

Happy walking
Poppet's Dog Training 😊🐾

07/08/2024

This handsome little fella is a world away from where he was just a few months ago.

Having found him self a new home and a fresh haircut. We have been working on helping him to acclimatise to his new home.

He has settled really well into the new routines, had learnt to give up items he has taken (that weren’t his), has made some friends and is working hard on his recall.

Thinking of taking on a rescue? Get in touch with Poppet's Dog Training for more advice. 😊🐾

05/08/2024

🐾 Poppets Insight: Dog training methods and what you need to know.

The summer is a popular time to welcome a dog into your family.

Many of you will be, so it follows that we’re getting lots of questions from owners about dog training techniques. And we’ve responded here with a summary of training methods and philosophies… from wolves to walks.

Click on the blog post link to find out about different training methods. Some of it may surprise you, but this way you’ll be ready to make the right choice for you and your dog.

It’s a gift from Poppets to you, your family and your dog (I know! They’re included in your family too).

Let’s take a walk…

Rachel, Owner at Poppets Dog Training

https://www.poppetsdogtraining.co.uk/post/dog-training-methods-what-you-need-to-know
__________
Need a good dog trainer, have questions or need some advice?

Visit the Poppets website and get in touch

Dog training methods vary, but which is best? Discover why Poppets Dog Training, Nuneaton uses force-free training as best practice for your dog.

03/08/2024

Care home companion.

I’ve been working with this lovely lady over the last few months mainly on all the basic puppy training but also for her role within a care home where her owner works.

Teaching calm meeting to the residents. A solid stay for emergency situations and how to control her Labrador urges around the tea trolley!!

She has made fantastic progress and is bringing joy to the residents she shares her days with.

Drop me a message at Poppet's Dog Training for any questions about training your puppy pal. 😊🐾

02/08/2024

Lovely to hear from a former client and receive some fantastic feedback. 😊🐾

“Hope you are having a great weekend. Thought you'd like this. Thanks to all your training guidance and help! Luna enjoyed her first festival today! She had a blast, was sooo good as it was really really busy and she is now crashed out! Thank you 🐾 ###”

31/07/2024

🐾 Poppets Insight: What you need to ask when visiting an owner or breeder.

If you’re choosing a dog, visiting the breeder is such an important part of the process.

Keep in mind… made well, this is the most wonderful decision for you and your family. Don’t rush it. There are breeders and owners who are irresponsibly breeding or importing puppies, some of which are still being sold from the boots of cars.

So, amidst the excitement, this is your chance to ask important questions and get peace of mind.

Here are some to get you started:

❔ Has the owner started the relevant health checks and can they give you records?

❔ How many dogs does the breeder have? Are there multiple litters from lots of different breeds?

❔ Have they started any training, such as getting the dog used to sounds, children, other animals or the car?

Now, take a look at our blog post showing the ‘5 ways to choose the right dog breed for you and your family.’ You’ll find loads more information and important red flags to look out for when visiting breeders.

It’s a gift from Poppets Dog Training.

Time for a walk…

Rachel, Owner at Poppets Dog Training
https://www.poppetsdogtraining.co.uk/post/5-ways-to-choose-the-right-dog-breed
__________
Need a good dog trainer, have questions or need some advice?

Visit the Poppets website and get in touch

Looking for the perfect furry addition to your family? Grab 5 expert tips for choosing the right dog breed with Poppets Dog Training.

27/07/2024

This is the sound of a pup enjoying themselves. It is also the sound of a pup not stealing shoes, socks, children’s toys and not chewing on the furniture!

By giving your pup activities to do throughout the day you will reduce incidences of what many people would class as ‘naughty’ behaviour.

Get in touch with Poppet's Dog Training for further advice 😊🐾.

25/07/2024

🐾 Finding your perfect dog: Remember to keep your head.

Your dog will always be more than a pet. They quickly become central to your family and you couldn’t imagine life without them.

We always encourage taking your time between decision and action, making sure you’ve asked all the questions and found all the information you need to choose the right breed for you.

Your new family member will need your heart, but make sure you keep your head on your way to finding them. Making the right choice now will reward you for years to come.

What about pedigree dogs?

What about rescue dogs?

“Look how cute that one is!”

It’s a big decision, so to help you we’ve put together a guide. Take a look at our latest blog post showing the ‘5 ways to choose the right dog breed for you and your family.’

A gift from Poppets Dog Training.

Time for a walk…

Rachel, Owner at Poppets Dog Training
https://www.poppetsdogtraining.co.uk/post/5-ways-to-choose-the-right-dog-breed
__________
Need a good dog trainer, have questions or need some advice?
Visit the Poppets website and get in touch

22/07/2024

Challenging behaviours often need multiple angles of treatment.

I was initially called to help this lovely lady with her reactivity. To help her in this area we first needed to help her with her lead walking.

Reactive dogs will often head out for walks looking for the things they don’t like, by first teaching them to enjoy their walks on a loose lead and have the ability to relax enough to sniff, engage in games and even toilet when out is the first step to helping them.

From this relaxed walking point you are able to help them with their reactions.

Having a reactive dog can hard and leave you feeling isolated.

Reach out to me at Poppet's Dog Training to start your training journey, you are not alone. 😊🐾

19/07/2024

Where did that time go?!

Love this little man. 🥰🐾

19/07/2024

🐾 SPOILER ALERT: All puppies are cute.
If you choose the right dog for you and your family now, you’ll be rewarded for years to come.

It’s a big decision and you need to keep a long-term perspective. Start by asking yourself, “what will the next 10 years look like?”

It’s obvious to say, but hard to stick to when confronted with fluffy fur and doe eyes. Yes, it’s true, all puppies are cute!

Yet training, size, exercise needs, moulting and grooming are all important to consider for your family members.

And… they apply to your choice of dog too!

So to help you on the way, our latest blog post shows the ‘5 ways to choose the right dog breed for you and your family.’

It’s a gift from Poppets Dog Training.

Time for a walk…
Rachel, Owner at Poppets Dog Training
https://www.poppetsdogtraining.co.uk/post/5-ways-to-choose-the-right-dog-breed
__________
Need a good dog trainer, have questions or need some advice?
Visit the Poppets website and get in touch

15/07/2024

Got a puppy and children?
Wondering how you will navigate the school holidays?

Get the children involved In puppy care….

Could the children have a specific toy that only they use with puppy? Ensure the toy is long to prevent fingers getting accidentally caught. They can play together and then put the toy away when the game is over.

Encourage the children to make activities for the puppy, boxes with paper and some food rewards inside that the puppy can destroy, or some rewards frozen into an ice block.

Find the rewards in the garden, great if you have grass that you could let grow a bit so puppy has to go hunting.

Basic training (under supervision if needed) teach v the puppy a task can be hugely rewarding for the puppy and children.

Get in touch with Poppet's Dog Training for more information. 😊🐾

12/07/2024

This handsome chap is the latest newcomer to Poppet's Dog Training.

Despite he laid back approach to having his photo taken, we are working on his excitement levels and his ability to partake in calmer behaviours.

He is a rescue now on his 3rd home and despite being 18 months old and around 30kg, acts like a young puppy with out of control zoomies, jumping and mouthing.

He is displaying normal puppy behaviour that has continued due to never being shown how to live with people.

In his new forever home he is being taught how to greet visitors, walk nicely on the lead, and being given activities to keep him mentally occupied amongst other things.

Taking the time to understand that in this case he isn’t being ‘naughty’ he just doesn’t know anything different.

Get in touch if you need help with your pups training. 😊🐾

10/07/2024

I can honestly say that my little fella hates having a bath, but sometimes needs must!!

Having a mainly white long haired pup that loves muck and a roll in fox 💩 can be interesting 😂

Let’s hear your stories of how your pup ended up in a mucky mess, or even better, share some pictures!

Poppet's Dog Training 😊🐾

05/07/2024

🐾 Poppets Insight: 5 ways to choose the right dog breed for you and your family.

“How do I find the right dog for me and my family?”

“What do I need to know when choosing the right dog breed?”

“Which breeds of dog are good with children?”

Do these questions sound familiar? They’re just are a few of the things I’m often asked. Choosing the right dog now, means you'll look forward to long walks, loyalty, fun… and a dose of healthy unpredictability for years to come.

At Poppets, we care about you finding your perfect match, so we’ve put together a guide to help in our latest blog post. You’ll find five principles for choosing the right dog for you, with links and practical advice to set you on your way.

It’s a gift from Poppets Dog Training.

Time for a walk…

Rachel, Owner at Poppets Dog Training
https://www.poppetsdogtraining.co.uk/post/5-ways-to-choose-the-right-dog-breed
__________
Need a good dog trainer, have questions or need some advice?
Visit the Poppets website and get in touch

03/07/2024

🐾 ‘Rachel, how do I find a good dog trainer?’

This is a question I’m often asked. It’s a question I love to hear because it shows an owner is really thinking about what’s best for their dog.

Of course, it also shows people trust me and my expertise as owner of Poppets Dog Training.

Poppets been trusted with four-legged family members across Nuneaton and Warwickshire for many years now. It’s a privilege and a job I love.

So, the short answer to the question… Values, philosophy, expertise and qualifications all need to be in place.

The slightly longer answer can be found in our recent blog post, which also tells the story of how a troubled rescue dog inspired Poppets Dog Training.

Take a walk with me…
https://www.poppetsdogtraining.co.uk/post/finding-a-good-dog-trainer-rescue-dog-inspiring-poppets
Rachel, Owner at Poppets Dog Training
__________
Need a good dog trainer, have questions or need some advice?
Visit the Poppets website and get in touch

Here's the story of how a troubled rescue dog inspired Poppets Dog Training and what you need to ask when finding a good dog trainer.

01/07/2024

The Meercat! (If you know, you know….)

Often seen in crosses of the Poodle variety but can be found in other breeds.

Does your pup have a propensity for standing up on their hind legs to have a good look around? Often combined with some jumping and or yapping or squealing.

Whilst initially it may look cute, if not tackled it can lead to further issues such as a miscommunication in social interactions with other pups.

As said in my last post, the need to teach our pups to be more ‘meh’ and to realise the we don’t need to get involved with others business is an important lesson, albeit a hard one for some pups to learn.

Get in touch with Poppet's Dog Training for help with your Meercat. 😊🐾

28/06/2024

Socialisation.

Rather than greeting every person and dog you come across, socialisation is aimed at making your pup pal more ‘meh’ to its surroundings.

Having the ability to sit and do nothing whilst watching the world go by is a crucial skill to teach.

This pup did a great job today. We had several people talk to us, try to fuss her and even offer her an ice cream. Whilst I was happy to chat, I did politely turn down the ‘can I stroke her’ as we were in a training situation at that moment.

Get In touch with Poppet's Dog Training for more information on how to teach your pup to be more ‘meh’. 😊🐾

26/06/2024

Puppy Power Hour.

Looking forward to your new arrival but want to make sure you get off to the right start?

The Puppy Power Hour is here to help. I will visit you at home, usually within the first few days of puppy arriving to help you get off to a great start.

The sessions are bespoke to your family, some examples of training tips we run through

- toilet training

- bedtime routines

- settling puppy with existing pets (the little cutie in the photo is learning to live with a free flying bird)

- helping children to bond

And much more.

Get in touch with Poppet's Dog Training for more information.

Ps, any guesses on the mix of breeds for the cutie pictured? 😊🐾

24/06/2024

1 Border Collie
1 Norfolk Terrier
1 Great Dane
3 Small crossbreeds
1 Malinois
1 Dachshund
1 Boxer
2 Medium crossbreeds
1 German Shepherd
1 Muniature Pinscher
1 Visla
1 Large crossbreed
1 Welsh Terrier
1 Cocker Spaniel
2 Labradors
1 Springer Spaniel

And a partridge in a pear tree (only joking)

A snapshot of a week training with Poppet's Dog Training

Some of these were in a group class, others were 121.

We have covered a wide range of training activities, from pulling in the lead to jumping up to stealing items and reactivity.

Owning a pup should be a rewarding experience but occasionally there is a behaviour you will find challenging. Get in touch to get your pup journey back on track.

22/06/2024

Ice block with hidden treats.

What have you done for your pup in the warm weather? 😊🐾

20/06/2024

Would any of my Retriever owning followers like to help here?

Looking for a short meet and greet to check for allergies and then some first hand owner experiences. 😊🐾

19/06/2024

Jumping up is something that most pups struggle with.

This handsome chap is only 10 months but being a Great Dane, he is huge!!

We worked today on his calm loose lead walking and him not jumping up at people walking by, he can easily reach peoples shoulders when he jumps.

The training wasn’t about telling him off for the behaviours we didn’t like but instead rewarding those that we did like, these are then more likely to be repeated. This chap has made a great start today.

Needs some tips for your pup? Message me at Poppet's Dog Training for more information. 😊🐾