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Journey Together Dog Training & Behaviour

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Journey Together Dog Training & Behaviour

One 2 One Dog Training & Behaviour Services Modern, Ethical, Force Free Dog Training and Behaviour Modification.

24/06/2025

One to one Training & Behaviour services.
Packages, and drop in sessions available. Sessions are held at the beautiful Haddo Country Park or Delgaty Forest & Castle Nr Turriff.

To discuss your individual training goals, or to book your space, please get in touch either via messenger, or email, [email protected]

Alternatively, you can visit the website at
www.journeytogetherdogtraining.com

Teach. Train. Thrive

21/06/2025

Motivation and Reinforcement...

Training a dog isn’t just about teaching obedience—it’s about creating a shared language built on trust, timing, and motivation. Success comes from understanding what drives your dog’s behaviour and how to use that knowledge to guide learning effectively. At the heart of this process are two key concepts: motivation—what the dog wants—and reinforcement—how we encourage and strengthen the behaviours we want to see more of.
No dog is “stubborn” or “lazy”; they are simply motivated by something different in any given moment. Whether it’s food, play, praise, or the opportunity to explore, recognising and working with your dog’s unique motivators is essential for kind and effective training.

🧠 WHAT IS MOTIVATION?

Motivation is what drives behaviour. It’s the reason your dog chooses to sit when asked—or decides not to. Every dog is motivated by something, whether it’s food, praise, play, or even the environment itself. If a dog seems "stubborn", chances are, they’re simply more motivated by something else at that moment.
Typical motivators include:
• Treats and food rewards
• Toys and games (e.g., tug, fetch)
• Affection or verbal praise
• Access to places or activities (e.g., going out, sniffing)
• Relief from pressure or discomfort (less commonly used in modern training)
Understanding your dog’s strongest motivators is the first step towards training that works.

🔬 THE SCIENCE BEHIND MOTIVATION: HOW YOUR DOGS BRAIN LEARNS

When your dog does something good and receives a reward, their brain releases a chemical called dopamine. Often known as the “feel-good” chemical, dopamine creates a sense of pleasure and encourages your dog to repeat the behaviour.
For example, when your dog sits on command and gets a treat, dopamine makes them feel happy. Over time, they learn to link the behaviour (sitting) with this positive feeling, which strengthens the habit. This learning process is called operant conditioning—behaviour followed by a reward becomes more likely to happen again.
Another key chemical involved is oxytocin, often called the “bonding hormone.” Oxytocin is released during positive interactions like petting or praise and helps deepen the emotional connection between you and your dog. This bond increases your dog’s desire to please you and respond well to training.
By understanding and working with these brain chemicals, you can make training more enjoyable and effective for your dog.

🔁 WHAT IS REINFORCEMENT?

Reinforcement refers to anything that makes a behaviour more likely to happen again.
In dog training, the most common (and kindest) approach is positive reinforcement—adding something your dog wants, like a treat or toy, after they perform a desired behaviour. This strengthens the behaviour over time by triggering dopamine release in the brain.
There’s also negative reinforcement, which involves removing something unpleasant when the dog does the right thing—for example, releasing pressure on a lead when they stop pulling. While this can be effective, it requires precise timing and can affect the dog’s emotional state, so many trainers prefer positive methods.

💡 TYPES OF MOTIVATION

1. Extrinsic Motivation

This is motivation driven by external rewards—the ones you provide. It’s the basis of most training:
• Food for a sit
• Tug for a recall
• Praise for a trick

Extrinsic rewards are brilliant for teaching new behaviours, but they need to be valuable enough to compete with distractions. Over time, you can fade them and replace them with more natural reinforcers.

2. Intrinsic Motivation (Sometimes Misheard as Instrigent)

Intrinsic motivation comes from within the dog—it’s behaviour they find rewarding in itself, without any external input.
Examples include:
• Chasing squirrels
• Sniffing the ground
• Digging in the garden
• Herding (especially in working breeds)

You can’t "train" a dog out of intrinsic motivation—but you can use it. For instance, allowing your dog a chance to sniff after walking nicely on lead turns that natural desire into a reward.

🌀 SELF REINFORCING BEHAVIOURS

Some behaviours are so enjoyable or satisfying that dogs will repeat them without any need for a treat or toy. These are known as self-reinforcing behaviours.
Examples include:
• Barking at passers-by (they eventually walk away)
• Jumping on people (gets attention—even if negative)
• Chasing animals (fun and instinctive)
• Digging, chewing, or counter-surfing

Because the behaviour itself is the reward, these habits can be tough to break. The key is management and offering an alternative outlet that fulfils the same need—but in a way you can control and reward.

🔑 MAKING THE MOST OF MOTIVATION

1. Know What Your Dog Loves

Every dog is different. Some are foodies, others love toys, and some just want affection or freedom. Build a reward hierarchy:
• What are your dog’s highest-value rewards?
• What’s medium or low value?
Use the highest value when distractions are high or the task is hard.

2. Use Motivation Strategically

Don’t give out treats or toys randomly—tie them directly to behaviour. This builds understanding and strengthens the link between action and reward.

3. Apply the Premack Principle

Also called "Grandma’s Rule": let your dog do what they want, after doing what you want.
Example:
“If you come when called, you can go back to playing.”
This turns fun into reinforcement and increases responsiveness.

4. Fade Rewards Thoughtfully

Once a behaviour is well learned, you can gradually reduce how often you use extrinsic rewards—replacing them with real-life ones (like play or exploration). But don’t rush! Good habits take time.

⚠️ COMMON PITFALLS TO AVOID

• Using rewards your dog doesn’t value
• Poor timing (delayed rewards confuse the dog)
• Asking too much too soon (set them up to succeed)
• Ignoring self-reinforcing behaviours
• Forgetting to make training fun

At its core, dog training is about motivation. When we understand what our dogs truly want, we can shape behaviour in a way that’s kind, clear, and effective.
Instead of fighting against instinct, work with it. Use sniffing, play, and movement as part of your reward system. Prevent bad habits from becoming self-reinforcing, and keep sessions short, engaging, and rewarding.
Because when your dog is motivated, training becomes a partnership—not a battle.

Teach. Train. Thrive

17/06/2025

PREDATION VS AGGRESSION: They are not the same thing....

Ever watched your dog go completely still, eyes locked on a squirrel, then suddenly take off across the park like lightning? Or maybe they bark furiously at the delivery driver or another dog while out on a lead? On the surface, both behaviours can seem similar—intense focus, quick movement, barking, or even biting—but what’s going on beneath the surface is very different.
Welcome to the world of predation vs aggression—two behaviours that often get mistaken for each other. Understanding which one you’re seeing is key to managing your dog’s behaviour safely, responsibly, and with empathy.

🐿 What Is Predation in Dogs?

Predation is a natural, instinctive behaviour linked to your dog’s heritage as a hunter. Even though most dogs today are far removed from their wild ancestors, the instinct to chase, stalk, or grab still runs deep—especially in certain breeds.
It follows a patterned series of behaviours known as the predatory sequence:

Orient → Stalk → Chase → Grab-bite → Kill-bite → Dissect → Consume

Depending on their breed, a dog might display different parts of this sequence.
For example:
• Collies and Shepherds tend to be strong in the stalking and chasing stages.
• Terriers often show powerful grab-bite and kill-bite behaviour, particularly towards rodents.

💡Key thing to know:
Predatory behaviour is not emotionally driven. It’s calm, focused, and often pleasurable for the dog. There’s rarely any growling or barking—it’s not personal, it’s instinct.

🤯 What Is Aggression in Dogs?

Aggression is a completely different thing—it’s emotional. Dogs typically display aggression when they’re feeling threatened, fearful, frustrated, pain/discomfort, stressed. Etc

Types of aggression include:
• Fear-based aggression (when a dog feels cornered or unsafe)
• Territorial aggression (e.g. barking at visitors or the postie)
• Protective aggression (guarding family members or other animals)
• Redirected aggression (lashing out due to frustration or overstimulation)

Aggression usually comes with plenty of warning signs: barking, growling, stiff body language, showing teeth, and eventually snapping or biting. These are your dog’s way of communicating discomfort and asking for space.

🤔 How to tell the Difference

Although predation and aggression can look similar—chasing, biting, lunging—the intent and emotional state behind them are completely different.

Predation is:
• Instinctive and hardwired
• Calm and focused
• Usually silent
• Aimed at small animals or fast-moving objects
• Driven by breed-specific prey drive
• Can lacks warning signs

Aggression is:
• Emotionally charged
• Driven by fear, anxiety, or frustration (or other emotions)
• Often reactive and vocal (barking, growling, snarling - even at a low volume)
• Preceded by clear warnings
• Directed at people, dogs, or perceived threats
• Reactive rather than instinctual

Understanding what’s really going on helps you respond appropriately—whether it’s building confidence in a fearful dog, or safely redirecting a dog with a strong prey drive.

Predatory behaviour and aggression are not the same—although they can both involve chasing or biting. One is calm and instinctive, the other is reactive and emotional. And both require thoughtful, informed management, and training.

The more you understand your dog’s motivations, the better equipped you’ll be to guide them compassionately and keep everyone safe.

If you'd like help or support with your own dogs behaviour or training, then please get in touch for one to one services.
Email: [email protected]

Teach. Train. Thrive

16/06/2025

Are Verbal Corrections "Force-Free"? Here’s My Take...

I hear a lot of chatter within the dog training community about verbal corrections—specifically whether they’re considered acceptable within the world of “force-free” training. Some argue that even a firm “No” steps outside the boundaries of positive reinforcement, while others view verbal cues as a necessary and fair form of communication.
So, where do verbal corrections really stand? Are they helpful, harmful, or something in between?
Here’s my take on the pros and cons of using verbal corrections in dog training.

✅️The Pros of Verbal Corrections

One of the biggest advantages of verbal corrections is that they provide immediate feedback. Dogs learn best when they receive clear information the moment a behaviour occurs, and a timely “No” or “Ah-ah” can help them make the right association. Another key benefit is that verbal corrections are non-physical. Unlike physical punishment, they don’t involve touching, restraining, or intimidating the dog, which significantly lowers the risk of fear or harm.
They’re also incredibly practical. Because your voice is always with you, you don’t need tools or equipment to set boundaries—making verbal cues a convenient option in real-time situations. This becomes especially important when a dog is about to engage in something dangerous. A quick verbal interruption can stop them from running into traffic, picking up something toxic, or engaging in a fight, potentially preventing serious consequences.
Lastly, when used sparingly and in conjunction with positive reinforcement, verbal corrections can actually enhance a dog’s understanding of boundaries. For some dogs, this balanced approach can increase clarity and even speed up the learning process.

❌️The Cons of Verbal Corrections

However, verbal corrections do come with drawbacks. If they’re used too harshly or without clear context, they can cause fear or anxiety. This is particularly true for sensitive or rescue dogs, who may already be on edge. In such cases, corrections can erode trust and damage the human-dog relationship.
Another issue is that the dog may not understand what they’re being corrected for—especially if the timing is off or they haven’t yet learned what’s expected. This confusion can hinder progress and create frustration for both trainer and dog. There’s also a real risk of overuse. If verbal corrections become a constant soundtrack, they lose their effectiveness and may even start to provoke a negative emotional response to training itself—or to the handler.
One of the most important limitations is that verbal corrections don’t teach an alternative behaviour. Telling a dog what not to do doesn’t show them what they should be doing instead. Without positive guidance or redirection, they may simply feel stuck or unsure. And in some cases, verbal corrections can end up suppressing behaviour rather than addressing the root cause. For example, punishing a growl may stop the dog from vocalising discomfort, but the fear that caused the growl is still there. That emotional pressure can build and eventually result in more serious behaviours, such as biting without warning.

👌Best Practices for Using Verbal Corrections

If you do decide to use verbal corrections, there are a few principles to keep in mind. Use them sparingly, and only when you’re confident your dog understands what behaviour is being addressed. Always follow verbal corrections with clear reinforcement of the desired behaviour, so your dog learns what to do instead. Keep your tone calm and neutral—there’s no need to shout or sound angry. And consistency is key: ensure the training environment supports clarity and builds trust, rather than confusion or fear.

Teach. Train. Thrive

15/06/2025

Understanding the Change: Puppyhood to Adolescence

Just like humans, dogs go through distinct developmental stages that significantly affect their behaviour. One of the most critical transitions is the shift from puppyhood to adolescence—a period marked by noticeable changes in attitude, energy levels, and responsiveness. Understanding what’s happening during this phase can help guardians navigate it with patience and confidence.

🐾Puppyhood vs. Adolescence

Puppyhood generally spans from birth up to around 5–6 months of age. During this time, puppies are typically eager to please, more manageable, and highly receptive to learning. They bond quickly with humans, and their behaviour is often more predictable.
Adolescence begins around 6 months of age and can last until a dog is 18 to 24 months old, depending on the breed and individual development. For some larger breeds, adolescence may stretch even longer. This stage can come as a surprise to many dog owners—it’s often when their sweet, obedient puppy starts testing boundaries, seemingly "forgetting" behaviour cues, and becoming more independent.

🚨Common Behavioural Changes During Adolescence

During this period, a dog’s brain and body are undergoing major changes. Hormones surge, leading to shifts in behaviour. You may notice:

• Selective listening or disobedience – Behaviour cues that were once followed are suddenly ignored.
• Increased energy and excitability – Adolescent dogs may become more hyperactive and impulsive.
• Testing boundaries – They may chew more, dig, jump up, or push limits they previously respected.
• Heightened reactivity – Adolescents may become more barky or anxious, especially around new people, dogs, or situations.
• Fear periods – Dogs may go through brief phases where they suddenly become fearful of familiar things.
• Sexual behaviours – Especially in intact dogs, behaviours like marking, hu***ng, and roaming may increase.

❓️Why Challenges During Adolescence Are Common

Adolescence is the canine equivalent of the teenage years. It’s a phase where dogs are growing rapidly, testing independence, and often struggling with impulse control. Their brains are still developing, especially the areas responsible for decision-making and emotional regulation.
Because of this, it’s common for adolescent dogs to seem difficult or frustrating. This is not a sign of a "bad dog" but a normal developmental phase. Consistent training, patience, and structured outlets for their energy can help them navigate this period successfully.

🏠Why Many Dogs Are Surrendered at This Age

Unfortunately, adolescence is also the most common time dogs are surrendered to rescues or rehomed. This typically happens between 6 months and 2 years of age. The reasons include:

• Guardians were anaware or feel unprepared for the sudden change in behaviour.
• Lack of training or consistency in early life, making adolescent behaviours harder to manage.
• Unrealistic expectations that dogs will remain as calm or easygoing as they were in puppyhood.
• Increased size and strength, making unwanted behaviours more difficult to control.
• Lifestyle mismatches, where the dog’s needs exceed what the family can realistically provide.

💡Moving Through It

It’s important to remember: adolescence is temporary. With continued training, socialisation, and clear boundaries, dogs mature into calmer, more predictable adults. Support from trainers, dog classes, or even professional behaviourists can make a big difference.

If you’re in the thick of adolescent dog chaos—you’re not alone. It’s a challenging but completely normal part of raising a dog, and with time and patience, most behavioural issues will improve as your dog matures.
If you’d like support navigating the challenges of adolescence, or want to set your puppy up for success to make this phase as smooth as possible, get in touch to learn more about my one-to-one training programmes. I’m here to help you and your dog build a calm, confident partnership that lasts a lifetime.

ℹ️ Email: [email protected]

Teach. Train. Thrive

13/06/2025

When Thunder Strikes: Comforting Your Dog Through the Storm ⛈️

Did you know that thunderstorms can affect dogs both physically and emotionally—and not just because of the loud noises and flashing lights?

Dramatic drops in air pressure during storms can trigger internal changes in a dog’s body. For dogs already dealing with joint issues or arthritis, this shift can cause increased inflammation, pain, or stiffness—leading to behaviours like restlessness, clinginess, or general unease even before the storm begins.

Then comes the sensory overload: thunderclaps, flashing lightning, and atmospheric tension can heighten their stress.

Common responses include:

•Trembling or shaking
•Excessive barking or whining
•Panting, drooling, or pacing
•Hiding or trying to escape
•Destructive behaviour or digestive upset

While desensitising your dog to storms through training and gradual exposure is the most effective long-term solution, it takes time and consistency. In the short term, here are some ways to help your dog cope and manage their anxiety during a storm:

🏠 Set up a safe, quiet retreat, like a crate or small room with their bed and favourite toys.

⚕️ Use calming tools such as thunder shirts, pheromone diffusers, or natural calming supplements, or if severe phobias, discuss medications with your vet.

🔊 Play white noise, fan sounds, or gentle music to help mask storm sounds.

🐾 Keep them engaged with interactive toys, puzzles, or treats to distract their focus.

😌 Stay calm yourself—your dog takes emotional cues from you. Use a soothing voice and gentle touch.

🚨And always remember: never punish fear-based behaviour. Reassurance and understanding help build trust.

Every dog reacts differently, so be patient as you explore what works best for yours. With a little support, you can help your dog feel safer and more secure during stormy weather.

Teach. Train. Thrive

24/01/2025

Did You Know Storms Can Affect Your Dog’s Health?

When a storm rolls in, the drop in air pressure doesn’t just signal bad weather—it can also impact your dog’s body in surprising ways. Here are some medical effects to watch for:

🐾 Joint Pain and Stiffness

Dogs with arthritis or joint issues often feel more discomfort during storms. The drop in pressure can cause tissues around their joints to expand, leading to increased pain and stiffness.

🐾 Ear Pain and Sensitivity

The change in air pressure can also affect your dog’s ears, which are incredibly sensitive. This can cause discomfort, pain, or even mild inflammation, especially in dogs prone to ear infections or with conditions like allergies.

🐾 Respiratory Issues

If your dog has a respiratory condition (like asthma) or is a brachycephalic breed (e.g., pugs or bulldogs), storms can make it harder for them to breathe. The combination of lower pressure and increased humidity can exacerbate these issues.

🐾 Inflammation in the Body

Changes in pressure can sometimes trigger inflammation in other parts of your dog’s body, making them feel achy or unwell, even if there’s no obvious illness.

How You Can Help:

✔️ Make sure your dog has a comfortable place to rest during storms, especially if they have joint pain or respiratory issues.
✔️ Keep an eye on their breathing and mobility, and contact your vet if they seem unusually uncomfortable.
✔️ For ear sensitivity, monitor for signs like head shaking or scratching at their ears—this could mean pressure changes are causing them pain.

Storms can take a toll on our dogs, but being aware of these potential issues can help us give them the care they need!

Address

Turriff

Opening Hours

Monday	12pm - 7pm
Tuesday	12pm - 7pm
Friday	12pm - 7pm
Saturday	12pm - 7pm

Website

http://www.journeytogetherdogtraining.com/

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About The Dog School

Working with dogs is a passion and a way of life. For many years I have worked hands on with hundreds of dogs of all different breeds and their owners covering a range of behavioural problems, in particular focusing on cases involving canine aggression.

I believe that dogs should be given a choice in their actions, and that it’s our responsibility as their guardians to guide them into making the “right” choices, using training and handling methods based on the etho of No Pain, No Force, No Fear.

I dedicate a lot of time to dog rescue, and am the founder, director and behavioural trainer of local Non Profit Organisation 'Until Every Dog Has A Home'. A Rehabilitation, Rescue & Sanctuary for high risk dogs, and specializing in the rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming of dogs with severe aggression issues and bite histories.