Dr Caroline Canine Consultant

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Dr Caroline Canine Consultant

Qualified Dog Behaviourist & Trainer (IMDTB & IMDT)
PhD in animal behaviour
BSc. Zoology

07/12/2024

Are you ready to give your new puppy the best start in life?

Bringing a puppy home is exciting, but those first few days can be overwhelming. Imagine having expert guidance to help your furry friend settle in, build trust, and create a routine that sets you both up for success.

“The First 7 Days with My Puppy” is designed to help you and your puppy navigate this special time with ease and confidence.

Stay tuned – this exclusive, supportive course is launching soon! Be among the first to access tips, tools, and strategies that will transform your puppy’s first week into a foundation for a lifetime of happiness.

Coming soon! Watch this space.

04/12/2024

Why the "Blame Game" is Harmful
When guardians are blamed for their dogs’ anxiety, it’s not only unhelpful but also damaging. Here’s why:

Unfair judgement: Guardians are often already doing their absolute best. Adding guilt to the mix doesn’t solve the problem and can be incredibly discouraging.

Oversimplification: Anxiety in dogs is a complex issue, influenced by factors such as genetics, early experiences, and the environment. Blaming the guardian oversimplifies what should be a thorough investigation into the dog’s history, health, and behaviour.

Blocks progress: Blame risks making guardians feel helpless or judged, which can discourage them from seeking professional advice or following through with tailored behaviour plans.

The truth is, your dog’s anxiety is not your fault. By focusing on understanding and supporting you and your dog rather than looking for someone to blame, together we can create lasting positive change. Work with a qualified behaviourist (like me!) and your vet, and remember, you’re not in this alone.

Top Tip: If the trainer you are working with says you are causing your dogs anxiety walk away and find a qualified experienced trainer via the IMDT, APDT, ABTC.
Unfortunately I often see the blame game on a certain TV show so please don't get your advice from this gentleman.

📩 Ready for non judgemental help? Drop me a text or WhatsApp on 07882477177

Dr Caroline Rees - PhD Animal Behaviour
IMDTB - Qualified Dog Behaviourist
IMDT - Qualified Dog Trainer

30/11/2024

Fear is a natural emotion for dogs, but when not addressed properly, it can lead to serious behavioural issues such as anxiety and aggression. Many dogs develop fears due to genetics, lack of socialisation, or past traumatic experiences. Common signs of fear include hiding, excessive barking, growling, trembling, avoiding eye contact, and reactive type behaviours.

As a certified canine behaviourist, I don’t rely on quick fixes like slip leads or harsh techniques to address emotional issues. Emotional challenges cannot be fixed through training alone because they are not training issues!

Using these methods is likely to cause the dog to 'shut down', leading to 'learned helplessness'—a state that’s both unethical and harmful. Behaviour issues need to be addressed with empathy and a deep understanding of the emotional and neurological roots of fear.

Using science-based, positive reinforcement methods, I help dogs regain their confidence and feel safe in their environment. I focus on personalised solutions that meet your dog’s unique needs, without force, fear, or punishment.

✨ Let’s work together to help you and your dog lead a happier, more relaxed life.

📩 Ready to make a change? Drop me a text or WhatsApp on 07882477177

or comment WOOF below for more info!

Dr Caroline Rees - PhD Animal Behaviour
IMDTB - Qualified Dog Behaviourist
IMDT - Qualified Dog Trainer

29/11/2024

Share to help find Colin

26/11/2024

Dogs speak with their whole bodies, but how often are we really listening? Every bark, wag, growl, or even the subtle tilt of their head is a part of their language. Yet, even with the best intentions, we humans often misunderstand what they’re trying to say, leading to stress for our dogs and frustration for us.

Have you ever been puzzled by your dog’s behaviour, or maybe even felt upset when they didn’t respond the way you expected? You’re not alone. Dogs communicate differently than we do, and without the right insight, it’s easy to misinterpret signals. For example, many people see a wagging tail and think it means ‘happy’—but that’s not always the case. A wag can signal excitement, frustration, or even stress. By misunderstanding these cues, we might react in ways that confuse or even frighten our dogs.

As a qualified dog behaviourist with specialised training, I’m here to bridge that communication gap. We’ll work together to decode your dog’s unique signals so you can truly understand their needs and respond in ways that make them feel safe and supported. Understanding your dog’s language can lead to better trust and a stronger, happier bond.

If you’re ready to learn how to ‘speak dog’ and communicate with your furry friend in a way that enriches both your lives, let’s talk. Reach out to schedule a consultation, and start building a relationship with your dog based on mutual understanding.

DM me for a chat or schedule a free 20 min discovery call👇
https://calendly.com/drcarolinecanineconsultant

Dr. Caroline Rees - PhD Animal Behaviour
IMDTB - Qualified Dog Behaviourist
IMDT - Qualified Dog Trainer
[email protected]

22/11/2024

A typical day for me as a qualified dog behaviourist is all about understanding and transforming canine behaviour, one unique case at a time. My work involves assessing each dog’s individual challenges, consulting closely with their guardians, and designing tailored strategies to address the root causes behind behaviours like anxiety, reactivity, or aggression.

Many guardians come to me feeling lost, confused, and sometimes even frustrated, unsure of how to help their dog or why certain behaviours are happening. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed when your dog is struggling with issues that impact their wellbeing and your relationship with them. If this sounds familiar, please know you’re not alone—I’m here to help you make sense of your dog’s behaviour with compassionate, informed guidance.

I provide support that goes beyond quick fixes, helping you gain a deep understanding of your dog’s emotional needs. Together, we’ll create a customised approach that brings calm, balance, and trust to both of your lives. Every dog deserves to feel secure, understood, and capable of thriving in their environment, and every guardian deserves to feel confident and equipped to support their dog’s unique journey.

Whether you’re dealing with mild anxieties or more complex behavioural issues, my goal is to improve your dog’s quality of life and foster a stronger bond between you both. If you’re ready to see real change and give your dog a happier, more fulfilling life, reach out to learn more or book a consultation. Together, we’ll make a lasting difference for you and your dog. 🐾✨

Ready to make a change? Drop me a message at [email protected] or comment WOOF below for more info!

Dr Caroline Rees - PhD Animal Behaviour
IMDTB - Qualified Dog Behaviourist
IMDT - Qualified Dog Trainer

20/11/2024

Does your dog turn into a different animal on-leash? If walks feel more like a battle than bonding time, you’re not alone. Many dogs exhibit behaviours on-leash that they don’t show off-leash, and for a good reason: being on-leash changes everything for them. It’s a restrictive feeling, and it’s natural for your dog to feel more anxious or frustrated. But what if I told you that understanding this could change how you approach walks?

When a dog is on-leash, they’re unable to move away from things that make them nervous, and they know they can’t approach things they’re curious about in their own way. It’s frustrating and confusing! Often, this leads to reactivity—the barking, pulling, and lunging that can make a calm dog look ‘out of control’ in an instant. And when owners and onlookers misinterpret these reactions, it leads to more stress and tension.

As a qualified behaviourist, I understand that leash reactivity isn’t a training issue—it’s an emotional one. Reactivity often stems from feelings of fear, overstimulation, or insecurity, and simply trying to “correct” it doesn’t address what your dog is truly experiencing.

My approach focuses on helping your dog feel safe, manage their emotions, and enhancing the communication between you. Together, with knowledge and empathy, we’ll create calmer, more enjoyable walks that nurture a stronger connection between you and your dog.

Ready to transform your walks with a professional who truly understands dog behaviour? 🐾 If you think your dog is feeling fearful, frustrated, or anxious, let’s have a chat! Drop me a message below 👇

Dr. Caroline Rees -PhD Animal Behaviour
IMDTB - Qualified Dog Behaviourist
IMDT - Qualified Dog Trainer
[email protected]

www.drcarolinecanineconsultant.com

16/11/2024

The idea of being a "pack leader" for your dog is outdated and comes from early studies on captive wolves. These wolves, unrelated and forced to live together, showed competitive behaviors that were mistaken for strict dominance hierarchies. Later studies of wild wolves revealed something very different: they live in family groups where cooperation and care—not dominance—are key.

Somewhere along the way, this outdated theory was applied to dog training, even though dogs evolved alongside humans and developed unique social behaviours. Dogs thrive in environments built on trust, clear communication, and positive reinforcement.

It’s not about being a “leader” but about building a bond. 🐾💛

Discover the difference a qualified behaviourist can make!
https://calendly.com/drcarolinecanineconsultant
Dr. Caroline Rees - PhD Animal Behaviour
IMDTB - Qualified Dog Behaviourist
IMDT - Qualified Dog Trainer
www.drcarolinecanineconsultant.com

15/11/2024

Training your dog should be an enjoyable, positive experience for both of you. Imagine a journey where your dog learns new skills, gains confidence, and your bond grows stronger every step of the way. That’s the power of fear-free, positive reinforcement training—helping your dog to thrive, not just 'obey'.

With so much information out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but choosing gentle, science-backed methods makes all the difference. Positive reinforcement techniques build trust, reduce stress, and bring out the best in your dog, fostering a relationship based on understanding and care.

As a specialist in effective, fear-free training, I’m here to help your dog learn in a safe and supportive environment—no fear, no force, only encouragement and growth. Together, we’ll create a customised approach that’s enjoyable for your dog and works for real-life situations, whether it’s basic training or specific behavioural challenges.

Ready to take the first step towards a happier, healthier bond with your furry friend? Let’s work together to make training a rewarding journey that benefits you both. Send me a message or book a consultation, and discover the difference that compassionate, effective training can make! 🐶✨

If you'd love to learn more, this is your special invitation to join me.
👉 Go to my website www.drcarolinecanineconsultant.com
or comment WOOF! for more info

13/11/2024

Does it feel like everyone has an opinion on how to train your dog? From well-meaning friends to self-proclaimed ‘experts’ on social media. There’s no shortage of advice on dog behaviour. But how do you know who to trust?

Dog behaviour is deeply tied to the brain, the emotions it generates, and how these shape reactions to the world. As a certified behaviourist, my approach isn’t based on quick tricks or punishments—it’s grounded in the science of how your dog’s brain works. I’ve studied neurotransmitters, the brain chemicals that drive emotions, to understand the real causes behind behaviour. When we grasp what’s happening in your dog’s mind, we can address behaviour in a kind and effective way.

Why is this important? Because even with the best intentions people often misinterpret your dog's behaviours, offering outdated or even harmful advice. This can increase your dog’s anxiety, damaging their trust in you and prolonging the problems you’re trying to fix. Ethical, informed training honours your dog’s wellbeing and focuses on building a positive, lasting bond between you.

I’m based in the Bridgend area and cover the whole of South Wales, and I am here to help local owners who want more than a one-size-fits-all approach. If you’re struggling with your dog’s behaviour, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we’ll find real solutions grounded in science. Send me a message or book a consultation 👇to discover the difference a qualified behaviourist can make!

https://calendly.com/drcarolinecanineconsultant

Dr. Caroline Rees - PhD Animal Behaviour
IMDTB - Qualified Dog Behaviourist
IMDT - Qualified Dog Trainer
www.drcarolinecanineconsultant.com

08/11/2024

Understanding your dog's needs is essential for their well-being. 🐕 Many guardians struggle with communication and may overlook key signs of distress. By recognising these signals, you can foster a stronger bond and a more harmonious household.

I can provide tailored strategies to help you understand and meet your dog's needs effectively, improving your relationship.

When you're ready to get the expert guidance you and your dog deserve, I'm here to help. If you'd like to chat with me, pop me a message on 07882477177, and I'll get back to you.
💕
Or check out my website 👉 Click here to learn more:
https://www.drcarolinecanineconsultant.com/services

06/11/2024

Is Your Dog Pulling on the Lead? There’s a Kind Solution 🐾

If your dog pulls on the lead, it can be tempting to look for quick fixes like slip leads. But did you know that slip leads can actually cause harm? Here’s why it’s worth trying a gentler, positive approach.

Slip leads tighten around the dog’s neck when they pull, which can lead to serious injuries such as bruising, crushed tracheas, spinal damage, and even thyroid issues over time. This kind of aversive tool can increase stress (cortisol levels) in dogs, which may lead to unwanted behaviors like aggression—especially in dogs who are reactive or anxious.

Instead of causing discomfort, there are safer, effective ways to train loose-lead walking: 🐾 Use a well-fitted harness to avoid neck strain. 🐾 Reward calm walking—a few treats can go a long way! 🐾 Teach “check-ins” to keep them engaged with you on walks. 🐾 Be patient and consistent to build lasting habits.
It works for all breeds irrespective of 'drive' and breed size. Don't believe me? Check out my post of loose leash walking with two 70kilo Newfoundlands at the same time :-)

Reward-based training doesn’t just stop pulling—it makes walks more enjoyable and strengthens your bond with your dog. ❤️

💡 Looking for support? Reach out for one-on-one training to create safe and stress-free walks!
👉 Click here to learn more: https://www.drcarolinecanineconsultant.com/services

03/11/2024

With the weekend nearly behind us, many dogs are still feeling anxious, and unfortunately the UK fireworks season isn’t over yet. New Year’s Eve and Chinese New Year often bring another round of noise and stress. Here’s some advice to help your dog feel secure at home:

🔹 Safe Sanctuary: Create a comfy, quiet space where your dog can retreat to when the fireworks start. Add their favourite toys and blankets for extra comfort.

🔹 Exercise: Give your dog some exercise during the day – a tired pup is often a calmer one. Just avoid walks after dark when fireworks are more likely.

🔹 Comfort When Needed: The idea that comforting a scared dog makes their fear worse is an old myth! You can’t reinforce an emotion, so go ahead and reassure your dog with soothing words and gentle pats if that’s what they need.

🔹 No Forced Exposure: Never force your dog to confront fireworks if they’re anxious. Let them hide or snuggle up somewhere they feel safe.

🔹 ID Check: Make sure your dog’s collar and microchip has updated contact information, just in case they get startled and run off.

🔹 Medication: Speak to your vet about anxiety medications that can help ease your dog’s stress during fireworks. There are safe, short-term options that can make a big difference.

🔹 Stay Close: Being with your dog during fireworks can help them feel secure. Treats or toys can be a good distraction, but don’t push interaction if they prefer to be left alone.

🔹 Sight and Sound Masking: Close the curtains to block flashing lights, and play calming music or white noise to help mask the sound of fireworks.

🔹 No Punishment: Remember, scolding a scared dog won’t help. Be patient and understanding – they depend on you for comfort.

If your dog’s anxiety feels overwhelming, consulting your vet should be your first go to. Then when you are ready for help with long term rehabilitation give me a shout and we can chat about your options.

Dr. Caroline Rees
IMDTB - Qualified Dog Behaviourist
IMDT - Qualified Dog Trainer

25/10/2024

Happy 9th birthday 🎂 my special boy 💗

19/10/2024

🐶 Discover the Truth About Dog Training and Behaviour! 🐶

Are you finding it challenging to understand your dog's behaviour? I’ve put together a free e-book that debunks common myths and offers valuable insights into how your dog truly perceives the world. 🐾

By reading this guide, you'll gain the knowledge about dog's behaviour, strengthen your bond, and create a happier, more harmonious home. This is an essential guide for anyone who loves their dog!

💖 Download it now: Follow the link and grab your FREE copy and start transforming your dog’s life today!
https://www.drcarolinecanineconsultant.com/

12/10/2024

💕 Do you know what makes my day... 💕

When my customers are so overjoyed with the service and results they're seeing with their dog, that they take the time to tell me about it! 🤩

"Dr Caroline has been working with us since I bought my 9 year old rescue to her forever home 2 months ago.
Caroline listened to what I wanted to achieve, clearly explained each process and put together a bespoke package for us.
In addition to the actual training sessions, we receive a detailed follow-up email after each visit. I then have something to refer back to at any time as a refresher, there are lots of tips, information and techniques to take in at the time. We also receive regular check in messages and Caroline is always on hand if we have any queries or questions relating to previous sessions.
We have had 2 sessions with Caroline to date, my little girl is transforming each day from an aloof, independent, timid angel into a happy, playful, trusting, affectionate bundle of pure joy. We still have work to do, but, thanks to Caroline, trust, and our bond is clearly getting stronger by the day.
I can highly recommend Dr Caroline Canine Consultancy, she has made my little girls transition from her previous life and kennels onto her new life as smooth, calm and stress free as possible.
Thank you Caroline, we are forever grateful x"

I am so proud of what Kerry and Stormy have achieved during our short time together.

Just goes to show how things can change for the better with a little effort and the right support by your side. 🙌

If you'd love to learn more about how to help your rescue settle into their new home, this is your special invitation to join me.

👉 Click here to learn more: https://www.drcarolinecanineconsultant.com/services

09/10/2024

I had a question last week about whether its OK to comfort a fearful or reactive dog, so I thought I would answer it here as I am sure other people feel just as confused by all the conflicting information out there...

Emotions play a crucial role in shaping behaviour, influencing learning, memory, and how animals, in this case dogs, respond to stress. Neurotransmitters—chemical messengers in the brain—are central to regulating emotions and responses to their environment. Understanding how these neurotransmitters work helps us better support our dogs, especially when they’re faced with fear, anxiety, or stress. 🧠💕

This is important for dogs, whose behaviour is often tied to the fight-or-flight response. One common myth that has spread, is that comforting a dog during fear will worsen their fear or reactivity.
This is not the case.

Let’s explore how comforting your dog actually helps reduce their fear and why seeking guidance from a qualified behaviourist is crucial for your dog’s wellbeing.

Why Comforting Your Dog Won’t Make Fear Worse
🐕🧠 Fear is an Emotion, Not a Behaviour: Fear, like all emotions, cannot be "rewarded" or "reinforced". It arises due to neurotransmitters like adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol, which surge when a dog feels scared or stressed. Comforting your dog in these moments doesn’t reward the fear. Instead, it helps trigger the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms the body and reduces stress.

🐶❤️ Oxytocin and Serotonin Release: When you comfort a frightened dog, oxytocin (the bonding hormone) is released, which helps reduce stress and makes them feel secure. In addition, serotonin levels increase, further lowering anxiety and helping your dog relax. This change in brain chemistry moves them from a heightened state of anxiety to a calmer state.

🧠❤️ Learning Through Emotional Support: Dogs learn through associations. Comforting your dog during a fearful episode teaches them that the scary trigger (like a loud noise or a stranger) isn’t harmful. While it’s not about endlessly coddling your dog, giving appropriate reassurance helps them feel safe. Over time, they begin to associate these triggers with positive, reassuring experiences, weakening their fear response and reducing future reactivity.

🤗🐶 Comfort in Behaviour Modification: Comfort is an essential element in behaviour modification techniques like counter-conditioning. By pairing a feared stimulus with comfort and positive experiences, you can alter your dog’s emotional response to the trigger. Instead of becoming more reactive, they start to associate the trigger with calm and safety.

👩‍⚕️ Why Seeking Professional Guidance Matters
Anyone can call themselves a dog trainer or behaviourist and unfortunately some perpetuate the myth that comforting your dog worsens fear. In contrast, a qualified behaviourist understands the science behind fear and can guide you to comfort your dog in a way that supports their emotional wellbeing. They use evidence-based techniques like desensitisation and counter-conditioning to help your dog feel safe around triggers 🐕🧠.

🐾 Comforting your dog when they are scared is not only okay, it’s beneficial. With the help of a qualified behaviourist, you can ensure that your dog’s fear is addressed in the best way possible, helping them form healthier emotional responses 🐕‍🦺💪.

If you need help with your fearful or anxious dog drop me a message 👇

Dr. Caroline Rees
IMDTB - Qualified Dog Behaviourist
IMDT - Qualified Dog Trainer
[email protected]

05/10/2024

🙏 Did you know that showing gratitude actually makes you a happier person? 🙏

I'm all for more happiness, so here are 3 things I'm grateful for right now:

❤️ The freedom my business gives me ❤️
I've never been great with feeling tied down. Working for other people always felt restrictive and deflating to me. I always knew I was going to carve my own path in life. Now, I love how I can create and do whatever I want in my business. This is what truly feels abundant and spacious for me. 🙌

❤️ My clients ❤️
I'm so grateful that I get to work with such incredible guardians and support them on their journey to creating a healthy and happy relationship with their dogs. I attract the most wonderful people into my world, and it's such a joy to join them on the ride! 🐾

❤️ My garden ❤️
The last few years have been a challenge for health and personal reasons. My garden has always been my happy place, but I've never been more grateful for that space than over the past few years. Getting lost for hours in planting, building, pruning, or just sitting and appreciating the birds, butterflies, and bees has fed my soul when I needed it most. 🌳

So, let's get a gratitude thread going.

What are you grateful for? 👇

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Videos

Great day 1 to this week's learning, really looking forward to day 2! Thanks Sophie and Leigh-Ann @veterinary_behaviour_support #dogbehaviour #cpd #upskilling #vetbehaviorist #journeytoccab

With these beauties today #drcarolinecanineconsultant #dogoftheday #newfsofinstagram #dogbehaviourist #newfoundland

Would you believe me if I told you that my cockapoo used to be a reactive dog? 🐕 Reactive dogs are often labelled as aggressive. The problem with this narrative is that it assumes dogs have an aggressive personality trait. As you can see reactive dogs are far from being aggressive ALL the time. The truth is that these types of behaviours are often rooted in fear and anxiety, and 'aggressive' behaviours are merely a means to communicate a need to increase distance between them and the scary 'thing'. Let's stop mislabelling our dogs and show them a little more understanding 🐶💜 Follow me and share to spread the word 🐕😍 For help get in touch via WhatsApp or call me on. 07882 477177 #drcarolinecanineconsultant #dogtrainer #reactivedog #caninecommunication

Crate training tips for a happy pup! 🐾 Remember, never leave your dog to 'cry it out'—this is detrimental to your dogs wellbeing ❤️. Its OK to comfort your dog, you SHOULD comfort your dog! Avoid forcing your furry friend into the crate to prevent stress and potential bites. 🚫 Make the crate a positive space, not a timeout spot. 🌈 And of course, limit crated time to keep it positive! Doggy prison? No thanks! 🏠 When crate training your pup, remember to build up crate time slowly. ⏳ Gradual increases help them adjust comfortably and create positive associations with their cozy space! 🐾 Follow me for ethical up to date training tips or message me to learn how you can make crate training fun! 07882 477177 [email protected] www.drcarolinecanineconsultant.com #drcarolinecanineconsultant #dogwelfare #cratetraining

Are you finding walking your dog a problem? Do you get dragged down the street rather than being able to enjoy your walks? I can teach you to understand what motivates your dog to pull and what we humans need to learn to help our dogs to learn to walk slower. Your dogs welfare is my top priority so I never use slip leads or other tools your dog will find stressful. ** If you know a friend who has the same issues you can quote 'Buddy Up' and share the cost and still receive expert tutoring, terms and conditions apply** Get in touch to start your journey. You can drop me a message or call on 07882477177 or email [email protected] www.DrCarolineCanineConsultant.com #drcarolinecanineconsultant #positivereinforcement #looseleadwalking #dogwelfare

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