Pup Talk

21/06/2024

I love chatting with people about anything to do with dogs. But I especially love doing it with people in my membership - Pup Talk The Pack. A group of like-minded dog lovers doing their best for their dogs.

Last night we talked about:
- Doing less
- Training with food out with a very foodie dog
- Vet visits
- Fundamentals of free shaping
- Getting starting with free work.

If you could get help with anything to do with your dog right now, what would it be?

As part of the membership we have 2 zoom drop-in Zoom sessions a month. We cover anything that people need help with.

If you're time-poor (who isn't!), I can help you get focused on the things that will make the most difference for your dog (and you).

Drop a comment below if you want more details.

20/06/2024

It's National Pet Choking Prevention Day on 22nd June and that kicks off the brand new Enrichment Safety Week running 22nd-29th June.

Have you thought about safety issues to do with canine enrichment? Like choking or bacteria?

Join me on my latest podcast chatting with Melissa and Sophie from about their new campaign to raise awareness.

To listen to this week's episode, click on this link.
https://puptalk.libsyn.com/pup-talk-the-podcast-episode-131-canine-enrichment-safety-with-paws-in-earnest

You can get 10% off anything (including the fab Rylo) on the Paws In Earnest website, with the code PUPTALK - https://www.pawsinearnest.co.uk/

To listen to the previous episode about the many forms canine enrichment can take - https://puptalk.libsyn.com/pup-talk-the-podcast-episode-120-canine-enrichment-is-more-than-just-food

If you want affordable help with your dog, you can join Pup Talk The Pack dog training and support community https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack

You can get 50% off your first month with the code THEPACK50

06/06/2024

Today's podcast is a quick canter through resource guarding.

I love this topic as there is so many layers to it. In my experience it's never just "I want this thing, don't you dare take it off me."

In this episode I talk about:
- What it is.
- How you can inadvertently bring it on.
- What it can look like.
- What are reasons that it happens?
- Can you reduce the chances of it becoming a problem?
- How you start to work on it if it's already happening?

Have you had any experiences with resources guarding?

And, if so, what do you think has the the major factors behind it?

Perhaps revisit this question after listening to the show.

It's a 15 min episode so ideal for a short drive.

Do share this episode with someone else that you think this will help.

https://puptalk.libsyn.com/pup-talk-the-podcast-episode-130-is-my-dog-resource-guarding

For more practical and affordable help, you can try out my membership, with 50% off your first month.

There is a small Facebook group where there is accountability and new challenges to take part in.

There are 2 zoom drop-in Q&A sessions to get any niggling questions answered.

You also get access to a searchable library of training strategies and games.

It's normally £30/month but you can use the code THEPACK50 to get your first month half price. You can click on the link in my bio.

https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack

30/05/2024

Does your dog jump up at people when you're out and about?

It's a really common thing for dogs to do, whether they're puppies, teenagers or adult dogs.

This week's bite-sized podcast gives you 7 quick tips to help.

Do tag someone below, or share this episode with someone else that you think this will help.

https://puptalk.libsyn.com/pup-talk-the-podcast-episode-129-7-tips-if-your-dog-jumps-up-at-people-on-walks

For more practical and affordable help, you can try out my membership, with 50% off your first month.

There is a small Facebook group where there is accountability and new challenges to take part in.

There are 2 zoom drop-in Q&A sessions to get any niggling questions answered.

You also get access to a searchable library of training strategies and games.

It's normally £30/month but you can use the code THEPACK50 to get your first month half price.

For more info visit https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack

23/05/2024

In this week's bite-sized podcast I get personal.

I talk about my lifelong struggles with my weight and how it connects to how we view our dogs' training.

I do hope it's a helpful message if you're ever wondering if what your doing for your dog right now is working.

Sometimes staying the same is progress! The alternative is probably going backwards.

https://puptalk.libsyn.com/pup-talk-the-podcast-episode-128-falling-off-the-wagon

Or search for Pup Talk The Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

If you want to try out my membership, you can get 50% off your first month. There is a small Facebook group where there is accountability and new challenges to take part in.

There are 2 zoom drop-in Q&A sessions to get any niggling questions answered. You also get access to a searchable library of training strategies and games.

It's normally £30/month but you can use the code THEPACK50 to get your first month half price. I'll add the link in the comments for you.

19/05/2024

Who’s coming to Dogstival at Burley Park?

I’ll be helping out My Anxious Dog UK with their amazing .

Tell me if you’re coming!! 💛💛

We are so excited to announce we will be at Dogstival this year at Burly Park on 1st & 2nd June 2024. Dogstival is also supporting our ground breaking initiative for our with our Yellow Space Zone which create a haven for owners and their anxious dogs. More details to follow

16/05/2024

Hands up if you ever struggle to get your dog in from the garden when you need them to?

This was what was happening for one of my members in Pup Talk The Pack. My latest podcast episode was inspired by the conversation we had about how to help.

I've definitely had to work on this with Bodie. He would like to live with the back door open all year round. And would be tricky to call back in.

The podcast is my 5 tips to help. Click to listen here https://puptalk.libsyn.com/pup-talk-the-podcast-episode-127

If you want to be able to get your questions answered, without relying on the lottery of asking Google or a well-meaning friend with a dog, you can join Pup Talk The Pack dog training and support community https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack

Get 50% off your first month with the code THEPACK50

16/05/2024

Hands up if you ever struggle to get your dog in from the garden when you need them to come in?

This was what was happening for one of my members in Pup Talk The Pack. So my latest podcast episode was inspired by the conversation we had about how to help.

I've definitely had to work on this with Bodie. He would like to live with the back door open all year round. And would be tricky to call back in.

Here are 5 tips to help -
https://puptalk.libsyn.com/pup-talk-the-podcast-episode-127

Please share this post, or tag someone you think it will help.

Is your dog reluctant to come in from the garden when you need them to? Here are my 5 top tips and strategies to help. If you want affordable help with your dog, you can join Pup Talk The Pack dog training and support community    You can get 50% off your first month with the code THE...

13/05/2024

With Mental Health Awareness Week (13th -19th May), let's talk about our dog's mental well-being. Training and other activities to boost confidence can significantly help your dog's mental health.

Just like us, dogs can experience anxiety and stress. Confidence-building games can help them build resilience, overcome fears, and find it easier to face new and novel things. From learning new tricks to exploring unfamiliar environments, every small achievement adds up to a happier, more confident pup.

Why does confidence training make such a difference?

It can reduce anxiety - by gradually exposing your dog to different things in a positive way, you can help them feel more secure and less anxious in a variety of situations. How about using ACE Free Work to introduce something novel?

It enhances independence - confident dogs are able to be more independent and less reliant on their humans for reassurance, leading to a more relaxed dog. You can do a simple scent game by hiding treats or a toy out of sight of you.

Want to start confidence training with your dog? Start with some simple games and gradually increase the difficulty level. Remember, keep it fun for both of you.

How confident is your dog? Do you think your dog's confidence impacts your dog's mental health (or yours)? Why not try something new this Mental Health Awareness Week.

12/05/2024

With Mental Health Awareness Week (13th -19th May), let’s talk about our dog’s mental well-being. Training and other activities to boost confidence can significantly help your dog’s mental health.⁠
⁠
Just like us, dogs can experience anxiety and stress. Confidence-building games can help them build resilience, overcome fears, and find it easier to face new and novel things. From learning new tricks to exploring unfamiliar environments, every small achievement adds up to a happier, more confident pup.⁠
⁠
Why does confidence training make such a difference?⁠
⁠
It can reduce anxiety - by gradually exposing your dog to different things in a positive way, you can help them feel more secure and less anxious in a variety of situations. How about using ACE Free Work to introduce something novel?⁠
⁠
It enhances independence - confident dogs are able to be more independent and less reliant on their humans for reassurance, leading to a more relaxed dog. You can do a simple scent game by hiding treats or a toy out of sight of you.⁠
⁠
Want to start confidence training with your dog? Start with some simple games and gradually increase the difficulty level. Remember, keep it fun for both of you.⁠
⁠
How confident is your dog? Do you think your dog’s confidence impacts your dog’s mental health (or yours)? Why not try something new this Mental Health Awareness Week.⁠
⁠

12/05/2024

If I could help you with one thing with your dog, what would it be?

For anyone that is in Pup Talk The Pack membership, today from Midday to 1pm GMT we have our drop-in Zoom Q&A session.

I answer members' questions, we have a catch up, help each other and celebrate any wins.

If you're quick, you can join now and jump on the Zoom and start getting help today.

Find out more information here https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack

It's normally £30/month but you can get 50% off your first month to see if it helps you. Use the code THEPACK50 at checkout.

Pup Talk The Pack Dog Training & Support Community: - Your dog training questions answered. - Be part of a supportive and friendly community. - You can do this! Whether you’ve got puppy problems, a nervous rescue or reactive older dog.

11/05/2024

Curious what goes on behind the scenes in my membership Pup Talk The Pack? ⁠
⁠
A taster from April:⁠

Twice monthly Zoom Q&As sessions and weekly Facebook lives for members' questions.
Covering topics like:
- Frustration, anticipation and excitement barking
- Dogs adapting to not going for walks on the same schedule they were used to.
- Sleeping/resting spaces including pens and crates.
- How to cope with the adolescent phase and keep your sanity
- Teeth cleaning.⁠
⁠
- Taking part in a challenge.⁠
⁠
- Taking about our mental health.⁠
⁠
Don't rely on Google or advice from well-meaning friends and family. Join The Pack for a small community of people that understand you.⁠
⁠
All for £30/month.⁠
⁠
For more info - https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack
⁠
If you want to try it for a month you can get 50% with the code THEPACK50

10/05/2024

Did you know temperatures as low as 17 degrees C can be too hot for some dogs? ☀️ ☀️ ☀️

Heatstroke can happen quickly - it's not worth putting your dog at risk. Especially if they're a puppy, an elderly dog or a flat faced breed.

Even if it's safe, your dog might find it uncomfortable.

There are plenty of things you can do with your pup without walking when it's too warm.

Grab a copy of my book STOP! Walking Your Dog for over 50 pages of bond-boosting games that don't need a hot walk.

https://go.puptalk.co.uk/stopwalkingyourdog/

How does your dog get on when the temperature rises? Does your dog head for the shade or like to loll in the sunshine?

09/05/2024

Part 2 of my conversation with Tom Candy is out now.

We talk about frustration in dogs - what it is and why it's such an issue for shelter dogs. Frustration is something that's useful to think about for all of our dogs.

We also talk about balancing the right levels of routine and predictability that are helpful in a shelter environment.

Plus how to tailor activities for a dog based on Tom's green / amber / red pyramid system.

He's also got some great tips for anyone thinking about getting a rescue dog.
And he gives us his views on the direction of rescues with growing focus on individual dogs' needs beyond the basics of food, water and exercise.

Have you listened to part 1 already?

https://puptalk.libsyn.com/pup-talk-the-podcast-episode-126-rescue-and-shelter-dogs-101-with-tom-candy-part-2

Follow Tom's page - Simplifying Shelter Behaviour (link in bio) https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550613461377

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This episode is sponsored by Pup Talk The Pack, my dog training and support community. If you're feeling stressed by how your dog reacts when out on walks, it can make such a difference to be able to talk to people that are going through similar experiences.

My membership is a friendly and supportive community of people to help you feel less isolated. Plus training support from me to help you move forwards.

You can join for £30/month. Checkout https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack

You can try it out with 50% off your first month by entering the code THEPACK50 at checkout.

02/05/2024

I know there are some Tom Candy fans here!

Tom is the Senior Training and Behaviour Advisor at the UK's largest dog training and welfare organisation. He's also an adviser and trustee for Hope Rescue Wales.

He’s a clinical animal behaviourist and Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant and Certified Shelter Behaviour Specialist.

This is a 2-part podcast and in this episode I ask Tom about how he got into working with shelter dogs and what his job involves now, as he's upskilling and supporting training and behaviour teams across the SW of England.

We also talk about the impact of the pandemic on rescues centres, lockdown puppies and what's been happening since.

He gives us some insights into what it's like for the staff and volunteers, as well as dogs in the rescue system.

https://puptalk.libsyn.com/pup-talk-the-podcast-episode-125-rescue-shelter-dogs-101-with-tom-candy-part-1

To follow Tom on Simplifying Shelter Behaviour on Facebook visit https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550613461377

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This episode is sponsored by Pup Talk The Pack, my dog training and support community. If you're feeling stressed by how your dog reacts when out on walks, it can make such a difference to be able to talk to people that are going through similar experiences.

My membership is a friendly and supportive community of people to help you feel less isolated. Plus training support from me to help you move forwards.

You can join for £30/month. Visit https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack

You can try it out with 50% off your first month by entering the code THEPACK50 at checkout.

25/04/2024

Are you confused as to why your dog runs and hides when you grab their harness or lead?

Even if they seem to enjoy their walks when they’re out.

It can all be very confusing.

In this episode, I help you understand what might be happening so that you can work out what to do to help.

To listen to this podcast, search Pup Talk The Podcast, or use this link
https://puptalk.libsyn.com/pup-talk-the-podcast-episode-124-does-your-dog-run-away-when-you-grab-their-harness-or-lead

This episode is kindly supported by Magic Mind productivity shots. They have a limited offer you can use for up to 48% off your first subscription. Or 20% off one-time purchases with the code PUPTALK20 at checkout. Visit http://www.magicmind.com/puptalk/

If you want affordable help with your dog, you can join Pup Talk The Pack dog training and support community https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack

You can get 50% off your first month with the code THEPACK50

25/04/2024

From not being able to have a dog, to a complete career change in 48 hours.

I love talking about starting my own business working with dogs.

Thanks to Guise Bule at me Roch Society for interviewing for this article.

20/04/2024

If you've got a question about your dog, where do you turn?

Your friends and family?

Google?

Social media?

It can be hit and miss as to the quality of the information you get. However well meaning.

Why not join Pup Talk The Pack and talk about your questions and queries. The shared experiences of other people with similar struggles and different experiences is invaluable.

It's £30/month, but you can get 50% off your first month with the code THEPACK50. For more information visit https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack

If you're not sure if it's right for you DM me and I'll send you a link to book a free 15 min chat with me.

18/04/2024

I'm getting more and more comfortable sharing the things that don't go right.

Every time I do, I get all sorts of messaging thanking me for making people feel better about their own 'mistakes'. But they are never mistakes!

They give us some of the most valuable information about our dogs and how they see the world right now. And they are incredible opportunities for learning.

Here is this week's confession, I mean podcast...
https://puptalk.libsyn.com/pup-talk-the-podcast-episode-123-listen-to-your-dog-to-avoid-a-disaster

This episode is powered by Magic Mind productivity shots. They have a limited offer you can use for up to 48% off your first subscription. Or 20% off one-time purchases with the code PUPTALK20 at checkout. Visit http://www.magicmind.com/puptalk/

If you want affordable help with your dog, you can join Pup Talk The Pack dog training and support community https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack
You can get 50% off your first month with the code THEPACK50

16/04/2024

I have a favour to ask 🙏🏻

For anyone that’s listened to the Audible version of my book STOP! Walking Your Dog book (and there’s been nearly 1,000 so far 🤪) I’ve only got 2 reviews so far.

If you’re able to add one - that would be so helpful 🥰🥰🥰

12/04/2024

It's part 2 of my conversation with Nikki Venditto, dog super-mum to 3 Miniature Schnauzers that are Mabel, Betty, and Wilma in Instagram

Amongst other things, we talk about listening to what our dogs are telling us, treasure hunts, amazing 'mummy dinners' and free shaping. Plus a great pumpkin flapjack recipe for settling gurgling tummies.

This episode is powered by Magic Mind productivity shots. They have a limited offer you can use for up to 48% off your first subscription. Or 20% off one-time purchases with the code PUPTALK20 at checkout. Visit http://www.magicmind.com/puptalk/

If you want affordable help with your dog, you can join Pup Talk The Pack dog training and support community https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack
You can get 50% off your first month with the code THEPACK50

https://puptalk.libsyn.com/pup-talk-the-podcast-episode-122-fluffage-towers-part-2

07/04/2024

After , the message is still spreading ❤❤ It's not just about one day, but any day where it's right for your dog and you.

Thanks so much to The Sun for featuring this story.

And for Rachel Spencer for all her help.

Read the full article here - https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/27155012/paws-and-claws-sleepless-spaniel/

04/04/2024

For podcast episode #121, I'm talking to Nikki Venditto, dog super-mum to 3 Miniature Schnauzers.

Nikki is passionate and knowledgeable and I know you'll love listening to her share her journey to getting geeky about dogs' behaviour and health.

This is part 1 and it's packed with tips - Nikki Nuggets. Come back for part 2 next week.

This episode is powered by Magic Mind productivity shots. They have a limited offer you can use for up to 48% off your first subscription. Or 20% off one-time purchases with the code PUPTALK20 at checkout. Visit http://www.magicmind.com/puptalk/

Follow Mabel, Betty, and Wilma

If you want affordable help with your dog, you can join Pup Talk The Pack dog training and support community https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack
You can get 50% off your first month with the code THEPACK50

Listen to this podcast here https://puptalk.libsyn.com/pup-talk-the-podcast-episode-121-fluffage-towers-part-1

03/04/2024

A massive thank you to everyone that got involved in yesterday.

So many great posts, videos, conversations all talking about why we might swap a walk for something else instead.

You can watch the recording of the free Q&A session that happened last night. I'll put the link in the comments.

Amongst other things, we talked about:
- How much activity should we do if we need to stop walks.
- How dogs can smell stress hormones in dogs and humans and what effect this can have.
- Dogs that behave at day care or with a walker, but struggle with their main human.

This was a taster of the kind of Q&A sessions that happen twice a month in my membership.

If you want really affordable help with your dog, why not try out Pup Talk The Pack dog training and support community. You can even get 50% off your first month with the code THEPACK50.

For more details visit https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack

02/04/2024

To round up a busy I’m running a free Zoom Q&A session tonight at 7pm GMT. Drop a in the comments if you want me to DM you the link to come along

02/04/2024

Love seeing all the brilliant things people do with their dogs other than walking them.

So much fun to be had on

Today is Don’t Walk Your Dog Day.

Founded by one of our partners, Niki French from Pup Talk, this is a day to try something different!

If you’ve got a dog that gets nervous, reactive or over-excited on walks and in public places, there is another way to have a calm and happy dog!

And if you are unable to walk your dog as often, or as far as you’d like to, don’t feel guilty.

Dogs can get brilliant mental and physical stimulation without going through your front door.

Try one of these games instead 👇

Pass the Parcel 📦
Wrap your dog’s favourite toy in the middle and fill each layer of wrapping with a tasty treat to sniff and snuffle it out.

Treasure Hunt 🗺️
Take your dog’s most loved toy and hide it somewhere in the house, then lay a treat trail to help your dog find it.

Hide and Seek 👀
Hide somewhere in the house with their favourite toy. Call them and let them find you!

Will you give it a go? Let us know in the comments. 👇

Thank you That'll Do Academy - Martina Miradoli for the cheekiest photo! 😍

02/04/2024

"I didn't walk my dog for 9 months" - Rogue's story so far

Gabby is one of the amazing people in my membership. She is dog mum to Rogue, a sensitive and special girl.

Born to a Romanian street dog, she came over to the UK at 4.5 months old. Overseas rescue charities are doing a brilliant job of bringing dogs into happy future homes, some dogs find the journey harrowing with the days of travel in a bus, crated with other, equally stressed, and confused dogs.

Then, within a couple of months going into lockdown, alongside the hormonal adolescence phase. It was a difficult combination.

By the age of 2, Rogue had been on the receiving end of 2 traumatic incidents involving off-lead dogs attacking Rogue, one ending in puncture wounds and surgery.

With Rogue's anxiety with noise and movement, and dog and people reactivity getting worse, Gabby was struggling to know what to do to help her. Gabby started working with me, and joined Pup Talk The Pack dog training and support community.

Rogue had been through so much in such a short space of time. Poor Rogue was so sensitive that she couldn't even go out confidently in her own garden for a poo. Sometimes Gabby had to get up at 3am to drive somewhere quiet so that Rogue could go to the loo when she needed to.

After the second dog attack, Gabby stopped walking Rogue completely. She didn't leave her home, other than toilet trips to quiet, private spaces for 9 months because Rogue was such a sensitive, frightened dog.

She was so stressed by movement; she would bark anyone or anything going past the car or their garden. Even their other dog Jasper, or Gabby's mum moving around at home would set Rogue off.

There had even been the occasional fight between Gabby's 2 dogs as Rogue was such a sensitive and frightened dog; she struggled to switch off and get enough sleep.

Gabby persevered because she wanted to give Rogue the best life she could. Now 3 years on, she can sit quietly on the sofa with both dogs watching TV. Rogue can spend time sniffing around her garden, reacting much less to dogs and people walking past their garden. This used to be unimaginable.

These are things most dog owners take for granted but Gabby's love for both of her dogs, and the sacrifices she's made that has given Rogue and Jasper's lives the great lives they deserve.

Another thing she's found that is vital for Rogue is to get enough sleep. For her this is 18-20 hours sleep a day.

After 9 months of working on calmness and confidence at home and in private spaces, walks have restarted again and can be enjoyable again.

Rogue is one of the examples of why (April 2nd) is so important.

I created this nationally recognised awareness day because it's easy to think everyone should walk their dogs all the time, no matter what. But stories like Gabby and Rogue's show there can be real breakthroughs if you don't walk your dog.

01/04/2024

This isn't an April Fool post - tomorrow it's

It's a day to share things you do with your dog other than taking them for a walk.

Or why you don't always walk your dog.

Please share this post, or tag someone that you think it will help, and let's keep helping to remove the stigma if walking your dog isn't the right thing to do.

28/03/2024

Did you know is an officially recognised awareness day?

Yes I created it, but is now in calendars all over the world 😃 The more people get involved the more dogs and their humans we can reach.

Let's make this the biggest year yet!

https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/dont-walk-your-dog-day/