The PAWSitive Woof Pack

09/07/2025

Whether it bothers you or your family, at some point, your dog jumping up at a guest or complete stranger could cause a problem.

It's best to figure out how to control your dog's greeting and excitable behaviour BEFORE it turns into an actual issue.

Find out how to start working on it with our handy guide.

You hear the doorbell ring. Your friend has arrived. But before they can step inside, your enthusiastic dog comes bounding toward them, paws up, tail wagging like a helicopter blade, ready to launch themselves into a ful...

09/07/2025

# # # XL BULLY UPDATE # # #

A quick follow up from our update yesterday, a client of ours has received this, which may be useful for any other XL owners 😀

08/07/2025

# # ATTENTION XL OWNERS / DOGS ON EXEMPTION LISTS # #

We have been made aware of emails requesting proof of liability insurance, so far it seems to be Lancashire police requesting this, although it is assumed other forces may role this out.

DEFRA originally stated owners didn’t need to send proof of insurance renewal to them. However, for your exemption to remain valid you do need to have kept up to date insurance and to be able to provide copies of this if requested by your local police.

A few people we've spoken to have confirmed that Lancs Police are likely to start doing spot checks.

(Please check spam folder for emails also)

07/07/2025

Owning a puppy is amazing! They're little tiny bundles of joy, fluff and puppy breath. Only psychopaths couldn't possibly fall in love with them, so why on earth are we writing a blog about the WORST parts of puppy ownership?

Well, let's be honest ... puppy ownership is HARD. So, if you're going through the puppy blues, know you're not alone. We've all been there, and most of us have lived to tell the tale.

07/07/2025

Louise is currently in Italy, exploring Milan, Verona and Venice with our eldest.

Sounds like she's having a great time, but her biggest gripe is she hasn't stroked a single dog since she left our house Wednesday morning.

Just a quick reminder for her of what's waiting when she returns.

05/07/2025

Find out what happened when Louise met Luigi!

Background

03/07/2025

So, you've never owned a dog before and you've decided you're bored of having lie ins and spare money in your bank account, so NOW is the perfect time to get a canine companion.

If you pay any attention to our blogs and posts, you'll know we kind of bang on about how different breeds have different needs - which is why it's important to consider the training requirements and general temperaments of a specific breed, especially if you have no previous ownership experience.

What dogs does our canine behaviourist recommend you get if you're getting your very first dog?

Out of interest, we'd also love to hear what your first dog actually was!

Getting a dog is one of the most exciting and rewarding decisions you can make. There’s nothing quite like the joy of coming home to an excited pup, wagging its tail and thrilled to see you. But as a first-time dog owner...

01/07/2025

Is there actually a downside to working with dogs?

If you ask me what it’s like to be a canine professional, nine times out of ten I’m going to tell you I’ve got the best job in the world. Working with dogs, changing their lives, helping owners be more competent canine g...

29/06/2025

Toilet training a pup is, without doubt, one of the most challenging parts of puppy ownership. For many people, the most frustrating part can be when their pup will go in the garden, but refuses point blank to go when on a walk.

Whilst that might not matter all that much, it can become somewhat annoying when they end up peeing in the hallway the second you come back through the door.

Check out our blog to find out what's going on, why they may be struggling to wee on a walk, and what you can do to support them.

Many puppy owners struggle with getting their new dog fully house-trained. To be honest, there are moments when it can feel like psychological warfare as you stand there in the pouring rain, determined not to be the firs...

29/06/2025

What dog breed should you get?

The truth is, we don't know you, so we honestly have NO idea what breed you should get. However, we do know what things you should consider when choosing the perfect breed for you.

🐕 Why do you want a dog? Are you looking for a companion, or a dog to guard your home?

🐕 Are you active and plan to take your dog with you on adventures and camping trips? Or are you a home body who prefers to take a quick walk in the park?

🐕 How much time do you have to train a dog? Will you do puppy basics and not much else, or do you want a dog you can learn with throughout their life?

🐕 Do you want a velcro dog that won't leave your side, or are you more interested in an independent free spirit?

🐕 How do you feel about barking? Can you cope with a dog that barks at everyt, ing or do you want something more chilled out?

🐕 What about grooming? Can you manage a dog's complex grooming needs (or pay someone to do it), or do you want something that's low maintenance?

🐕 What about shedding? Is a little shedding OK, but you can't stand the thought of tumble weeds of fur collecting under your coffee table?

🐕 How about size? If you prefer large breeds, can you manage one? Do you have the space? And the money?

🐕 How often are you out of the home? Will your dog be left for long periods of time?

The reality is that all of these choices will lead you to a dog that's perfect for you, your home and your lifestyle. It may not be the one you WANTED, but it will be the one you're SUITED to. That's actually what matters.

27/06/2025

Quick tip: Find a dog walker your dog looks at the way Nell looks at Louise, and you'll never have a problem.

This is the best review, ever.

27/06/2025

Do you ever feel like you're just not getting anywhere when it comes to training your dog? Or you make SOME progress, and then it totally stalls and you feel confused about what to do next?

It may help you feel better to know you're not alone - it happens to many of us. Find out what might be going on and what you can do to make it better.

Most people go into dog ownership full of the absolute best intentions – in many ways, it’s no different to becoming a parent. We want what’s best for those we’re responsible for: good routines, great friendships, strong...