Confident Canine with Sonia Catherall

18/08/2024

09/08/2024

Intro to ACE for Reactivity

This four week workshop runs from Wednesday 4th September to Wednesday 25thSeptember 2024.

The workshop is run by Penny Leedal and Sonia Catherall and will guide you week by week to:

✅ Help you to identify potential underlying causes to your dogs reactivity
✅ Help your dog to reset and re-balance using ACE Free Work
✅ Teach you observational skills that will help you support your dog
✅ Build your dog's confidence and resilience
✅ Strengthen your bond and build your relationship
✅ Help you and your dog learn essential skills in an ACE integrated manner
✅ How to transition your new learing to real world situations

You will have a live Zoom session (7pm BST each Wednesday), backup home study materials, and an invitation to join a dedicated Facebook group where you can upload videos and connect with others on the course.

In addition, you will be able to book a 1 hour one to one session with either Penny or Sonia to kick start your Free Work or discuss your dog's progress 😊

The cost of the workshop is £175 and will give ACE credits.
Penny Leedal is an ACE Associate Instructor, a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (mAPDT 01274), and a member of the Pet Professional Network.

Sonia Catherall is an ACE Associate Tutor, Certified Canine Behaviourist, and Professional Dog Trainer.

The link to sign up is in the comments.

Feedback from the previous workshop:

"I highly recommend doing this course, you will be mindblown by how easy but yet so clever and powerful it can be to help your reactive dog navigate the environment around them. And the beauty of this is that you don’t have to spend a fortune on expensive tools or equipment, most items can be found around the home to make the sessions fun with your dog."

"If you have a reactive dog then this workshop is a must for you. It is incredibly supportive, with a wide range of topics and access to a wealth of expertise from Penny & Sonia. There’s no pressure to speak or participate, but you’ll find yourself wanting to!"

"I really found this course interesting, helpful, and friendly. So much content given in an easy to understand way. Lots of input from Penny and Sonia who were always there ready to help and answer questions. Great support. I would recommend this course, no pressure, very enjoyable."

16/07/2024

Confident Canine Hub 😊

07/07/2024

🐾New Blog Post - Unravelling Reactivity: The Power of Counterconditioning and Desensitisation 🐾

Much of my behavioural work involves supporting fearful and anxious dogs. Whether they're worried about people, other dogs, vet visits, or car journeys, these fears can make life challenging for them—and for you. It is important to understand that your dog isn't being naughty or stubborn; their reactions are emotional responses to something they're genuinely worried about. But don't worry, there are ways to help!

In my latest blog post, I dive into effective techniques like counterconditioning and desensitisation which help create a new, positive association with whatever your dog is worried about. By countering their emotional responses, we can make significant improvements in your dog's emotional well-being, positively affecting their behaviour and making life more enjoyable and less stressful for both you and your dog.

Curious to learn more? Click on the link in the comments below to read the full article 👇

30/06/2024

The Undeniable Connection Between a Dog’s Health and Behaviour

For years, we've often viewed our dogs' medical and behavioural issues as separate matters. If our dogs showed signs of physical distress, such as lethargy, altered eating habits, or unexplained discomfort, we would rush them to the vet. On the other hand, when faced with behavioural problems like excessive barking, destructive tendencies, or sudden aggression, we often attribute these to training issues. However, a growing body of research has shed light on the undeniable connection between a dog's health and their behaviour. It is now widely accepted that a dog’s behaviour can be totally or partially caused by underlying health conditions.

26/06/2024

What Is Your Dog’s Respiration Rate While Sleeping?

This week, I've been monitoring Harry’s respiration rate, which I have been finding both fascinating and relaxing. It aligns perfectly with our recent discussions in the Hub about canine health and well-being.

This morning, I created a handy guide for Confident Canine Hub members to help them calculate and track their dog's respiration rate, and I'm pleased to share it with you all.

I'd love to hear how you get on and any observations you have. Please share your experiences with the group!

Check out this Document (A4) designed by Sonia.

17/06/2024

Intro to ACE for Reactivity

This four week workshop runs from Wednesday 4th September to Wednesday 25thSeptember 2024.

The workshop is run by Penny Leedal and Sonia Catherall and will guide you week by week to:

✅ Help you to identify potential underlying causes to your dogs reactivity
✅ Help your dog to reset and re-balance using ACE Free Work
✅ Teach you observational skills that will help you support your dog
✅ Build your dog's confidence and resilience
✅ Strengthen your bond and build your relationship
✅ Help you and your dog learn essential skills in an ACE integrated manner
✅ How to transition your new learing to real world situations

You will have a live Zoom session (7pm BST each Wednesday), backup home study materials, and an invitation to join a dedicated Facebook group where you can upload videos and connect with others on the course.

In addition, you will be able to book a 1 hour one to one session with either Penny or Sonia to kick start your Free Work or discuss your dog's progress 😊

The cost of the workshop is £175 and will give ACE credits.

Penny Leedal is an ACE Associate Instructor, a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (mAPDT 01274), and a member of the Pet Professional Network.

Sonia Catherall is an ACE Associate Tutor, Certified Canine Behaviourist, and Professional Dog Trainer.

The link to sign up is in the comments.

Feedback from the previous workshop:

"I highly recommend doing this course, you will be mindblown by how easy but yet so clever and powerful it can be to help your reactive dog navigate the environment around them. And the beauty of this is that you don’t have to spend a fortune on expensive tools or equipment, most items can be found around the home to make the sessions fun with your dog."

"If you have a reactive dog then this workshop is a must for you. It is incredibly supportive, with a wide range of topics and access to a wealth of expertise from Penny & Sonia. There’s no pressure to speak or participate, but you’ll find yourself wanting to!"

"I really found this course interesting, helpful, and friendly. So much content given in an easy to understand way. Lots of input from Penny and Sonia who were always there ready to help and answer questions. Great support. I would recommend this course, no pressure, very enjoyable."

21/05/2024

🐾 Unlocking the Hidden Wonders of our Dog's Tongue 🐾

Have you ever stopped to ponder the remarkable capability of your dog's tongue? It's not just for tasting treats—it's a powerhouse of sensory exploration and vital bodily functions!

From regulating body temperature to facilitating communication, our dogs' tongues are an incredible organ. They even convey emotions through subtle changes in position and movement.

Despite sometimes landing in questionable places, our dogs' tongues serve numerous purposes. They aid in hydration, grooming, and social interaction, playing a vital role in their health and well-being.

To delve deeper into the fascinating world of our canine companions' tongues and learn how to enrich their lives through ACE Free Work and other activities, check out our latest blog post! 🐶✨

Link in the comments below 👇

16/05/2024

ACE Free Work Live Workshop!

Join Penny Leedal and myself for a full day live online Free Work workshop this summer 💞

This workshop is suitable for all, whether you are new to Free Work or well on the way down your ACE journey. This is your opportunity to learn about Free Work and practice live with feedback from two ACE Tutors.

The workshop will run on Saturday 29th June from 9:30am to 4:30pm BST and you will have 2 Free Work sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. You will also have the opportunity to observe the other participants.

As a bonus, there will be a live Q&A via Zoom on the following day (Sunday 30th June at 7pm BST) so you can ask all those questions that spring to mind following the live workshop.

You will also have access to the online Introduction to ACE Free Work workshop to guide anyone who is new to ACE Free Work.
There are only four handler places available so don’t miss out! Limited spectator places will also be available.

ACE Credits are available for this workshop:

Handler place £90
Spectator place £60

Penny Leedal is an ACE Associate Instructor, a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (mAPDT 01274) and a member of the Pet Professional Network.

Sonia Catherall is an ACE Associate Tutor, Certified Canine Behaviourist and a Professional Dog Trainer

The link to sign up is in the comments or email [email protected]

11/05/2024

Great post 😊

CHEWING BEHAVIOUR: CAN IT BENEFIT LEARNING IN FEARFUL DOGS ?

Anxiety and fear behaviours in social animals is the topic of our generation and much popularised in discussion and modern scientific research. We have seen several studies emerge in the last decade that have strengthened our understanding, which behaviour professionals have applied successfully in improving the affective state and welfare of animals across species. We are so lucky to have access to the work of many incredible minds of the global science community, who are continuing to elevate our knowledge base so we can help animals better.

A recent study by Krichbaum et al, 2023 explores a novel path suggesting that chewing could enhance learning in dogs. This is a first of its kind research looking at a link between chewing and cognitive function, in relation to fearfulness ( link in the comments)

Chewing behaviour in dogs, ranging from puppies to older canines, has been extensively observed throughout history. However, in wild canid species, recreational chewing is less compared to domesticated dogs, likely due to factors such as energy conservation and minimising time near carcasses to reduce risk. A study comparing teeth indentation on bones between wolves and captive wolves suggests that stress from captivity may influence differences in chewing rates.
Mastication, which involves chewing but is different to play or recreational, is a preliminary stage of digestion, and considered a rhythmic behaviour observed in almost all mammals, akin to locomotion and respiration, with the chewing rhythm generated in the brainstem . There is also evidence suggesting that the various functions of chewing support the mechanisms of natural selection in evolution and is widely factored into canid ethograms. Wolves can easily chew through large bones, aiming for quick consumption, while play behaviours among their young can involve chewing sticks.

In contemporary times, pet dogs have access to an array of products designed to alleviate boredom and provide enrichment, with claims to prevent undesirable behaviour and enhance wellbeing. An abundance of chewing options are available, with a recent survey indicating that 94% of dog owners offer edible chews, and 83% provide chew toys, believing that chewing alleviates boredom for their dogs.

Prior research has shown that chewing in pet dogs can alleviate stress ,and also evidence to suggest post learning exercise and play can influence memory in dogs.
However, this new study by Krichbaum et al, focuses specifically on aspects of chewing related to cognition through memory tests and its potential effect on trait-anxiety which is interpreted as fearfulness. Trait-anxiety is a term for anxiety that occurs consistently as part of an individuals’ way of thinking.
The study involved adult working Labradors ( known for their pronounced object play skills) already trained for tasks like scent detection. Nylabones were used as chew toys, provided directly prior to a spatial memory task, as well as a spatial navigation task.
The findings indicated that dogs with higher levels of fearfulness, more frequent chewing was associated with improved spatial memory. The opposite being true for dogs with lower fearfulness, which is interesting as the author suggests this may be due to chewing having a mitigating effect on fear. Whereas for the non-fearful subjects, chewing served more as a distraction. Findings also concluded that chewing during memory consolidation enhanced long-term memory.

This research marks a significant advancement in understanding chewing as a function and paves the way for further exploration, especially in relation to breed specific variations and motivational effects.

However, this new insight may also have implications for all dogs, particularly in how we train unwell, trauma-affected, adolescent as well as dogs exhibiting trait-anxiety. Similarly, it may benefit dogs easily stimulated by play techniques or dogs restricted from physical activity, with potential for faster learning outcomes, in both pre and post, a brief chewing period. Dog professionals might find value in utilising this data to test these new findings while ensuring ethical standards are maintained throughout training practises.

We welcome comments from our readers in relation to this paper, have any of you observed chewing behaviour improve outcomes or the opposite, in your own dogs or in your clients?


Boo Blackhurst CDBC


References:

Krichbaum et Al, 2023, No bones about it: The effect of chewing on cognition in dogs,
Applied Animal Behaviour Science

Arhant et Al, 2021, Chewing behaviour in dogs – A survey-based exploratory study,
Applied Animal Behaviour Science

Courtenay LA, et Al, 2021, 3D Insights into the Effects of Captivity on Wolf Mastication and Their Tooth Marks; Implications in Ecological Studies of Both the Past and Present

Nadja Affenzeller et Al, 2017, Playful activity post-learning improves training performance in Labrador Retriever dogs

Rooney et Al, 2009, A Practitioner’s guide to working dog welfare, Journal of Veterinary Behaviour

Gerstner GE et Al, 2010, Chewing rates among domestic dog breeds. J Exp Biol.

26/04/2024

WHAT'S COMING UP IN THE CONFIDENT CANINE HUB....

26/04/2024

THE IMPORTANCE OF TRUST 💞

Trust is the heartbeat of our bond with our canine companion and is the key that enables us to live successfully together. Trust creates a sense of security and is the basis of a meaningful relationship.

Trust isn't just a word; it's a silent promise between human and canine that fosters a deep sense of security and belonging. It's the unwavering belief that no matter what challenges lie ahead, we'll face them together with compassion, kindness, and understanding.

I love this quote by the amazing Sarah Fisher “when we take it slow, the trust will grow.”

20/04/2024

EDIT: This workshop is now full. Hopefully, we will be running it again later in the year. Please email us if you would like to be added to the waiting list 😊👍

ACEing Essentials

We are so excited about this workshop and have decided, as it is so jam packed full on content, that we will release the online content early, so it will be opened on 27thApril! Don’t miss out as we only have a few places left.

This new 4 week workshop runs from Wednesday 8th May to Wednesday 29th May 2024 and covers the following essential life skills:

✅ Loose Lead Walking
✅ Recall
✅ Settle
✅ Drop (leave)

This live workshop uses ACE Free Work to create a safe environment to support new learning.

It is appropriate for all dogs of all ages from puppy to senior.
The workshop is ideal for anyone who already has some experience of ACE Free Work but everyone is welcome as there will be a bonus module on how to get started.

You will have a live Zoom session each Wednesday, at 7pm BST, backup home study materials and an invitation to join a dedicated Facebook group where you can upload videos and connect with others on the workshop. The Zoom sessions will be recorded for later catch up

In addition you will be able to book a one hour 1-1 session with either Penny or Sonia. This is an opportunity to ask questions, discuss your progress or have a live Free Work session.

Cost of the workshop is £145 and will give ACE credits.

Penny Leedal is an ACE Advanced Tutor, a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (mAPDT 01274) and a member of the Pet Professional Network.

Sonia Catherall is an ACE Associate Tutor, Certified Canine Behaviourist and Professional Dog Trainer.

Link is in the comments to sign up or contact Penny for further information. Email [email protected]

13/04/2024

This is an interesting article which is useful as the weather is just starting to warm up 😊👍

There are two key messages for managing hot dogs: – Cool first, transport second. – Cool using water, the colder the better but use what you have available.

08/04/2024

This is why I am proud to be a DoGenius tutor 💕

People sometimes ask us what animal-centric or dog-centric learning is about in relation to the courses we provide.

Our courses are based on the philosophical approach of animal-centrism, which is grounded in the belief that animals deserve to be recognised as sentient beings with inherent value and rights. At its core, animal-centrism emphasises the importance of placing animals at the centre of ethical considerations, decision-making processes, and societal frameworks.

Animal-centrism acknowledges that animals can experience emotions, sensations, and consciousness. This recognition forms the basis for advocating for their welfare and rights. We believe that animals are not merely commodities or resources to be exploited for human benefit. Animal-centrism asserts that animals have intrinsic value, independent of their use to humans, and deserve to be treated with respect and consideration.

By offering courses and qualifications from this philosophical standpoint, we are promoting awareness and education about animal-centrism. By raising consciousness about the ethical considerations surrounding animal welfare and rights, individuals can make more informed choices and advocate for positive change.

Overall, the philosophy of animal-centrism advocates for a paradigm shift in how we perceive and interact with animals, emphasising empathy, respect, and ethical consideration in all aspects of human-animal relationships. By embracing this philosophy, we can strive towards a more compassionate and just society where the interests and well-being of animals are valued and protected.

24/03/2024

Masculinity and society often influence the use of aversive dog training methods, perpetuating a belief that aggression and control are masculine traits. This can lead to harmful training practices. Check out our latest blog for more insights.
https://bit.ly/43utPxU

21/03/2024

NEW WORKSHOP 🤩

ACEing Essentials

This new 4 week workshop runs from Wednesday 8th May to Wednesday 29th May 2024 and covers the following essential life skills:

✅ Loose Lead Walking
✅ Recall
✅ Settle
✅ Drop (leave)

This live workshop uses ACE Free Work to create a safe environment to support new learning.

It is appropriate for all dogs of all ages from puppy to senior.
The workshop is ideal for anyone who already has some experience of ACE Free Work but everyone is welcome as there will be a bonus module on how to get started.

You will have a live Zoom session each Wednesday, at 7pm (BST), backup home study materials and an invitation to join a dedicated Facebook group where you can upload videos and connect with others on the workshop. The Zoom sessions will be recorded for later catch up

In addition you will be able to book a one hour one-to-one session with either Penny or Sonia. This is an opportunity to ask questions, discuss your progress or have a live Free Work session 😊

Cost of the workshop is £145 and will give ACE credits 😊👍

Penny Leedal is an ACE Advanced Tutor, a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (mAPDT 01274) and a member of the Pet Professional Network.

Sonia Catherall is an ACE Associate Tutor, Certified Canine Behaviourist and Professional Dog Trainer.

Click on the link in the comments below to sign up, or contact Penny for further information - penny@paws2connect com

16/03/2024

What's the perfect way to channel your inspiration?
We're excited to offer our Level 5 Diploma in Professional Dog Training bundle with 10 FREE courses included! Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity!
https://bit.ly/48NKw8E

12/03/2024

Anyone who knows and follows me will be aware that ACE Free Work is an important part of Harry's life and the lives of the dogs I help and support. One of the many brilliant aspects of Free Work is its suitability for all dogs, regardless of age or background, meaning any dog can enjoy it.

For those of you who are not familiar with ACE Free Work and would like to find out more about it, we are running a 3 week online workshop that starts on Wednesday 20th March. This workshop will provide everything you need to get started on your Free Work adventure 😊

I have added a link in the comments below if you would like to find out more 👇

02/03/2024

🐾UNLOCKING THE POWER OF CHOICE FOR OUR CANINE COMPANIONS 🐾

Ever wonder what choice means for our canine companions? 🤔 It's not just about picking between A and B – it's about empowerment, wellbeing, and happiness! 🐶💖

Check out our latest blog post "What is Choice?" to delve deeper into the world of choice for dogs. From reinforcing behaviours to enhancing their overall wellbeing, choice plays an important role in their lives.

To read more click on the link in the comments below 👇

29/02/2024

Shake it…shake it off…

A recent study by two researchers in France looked at sniffing, pulse rate, and leash length on walks. Sixty-one dogs were taken on three separate walks, five minutes each walk, once with a 1.5m leash, once with a 5m leash, and once without a leash at all (walk order was randomized for each dog). Off-leash dogs sniffed the most, more than 3x as long as the dogs on short leashes. Dogs on long leashes spent nearly as much time as unleashed dogs sniffing, almost 3x as long as dogs on short leashes.

This study also found that sniffing resulted in lowered pulse rates, and the more intensely they sniffed, the more their pulse rates lowered. Pulse rate was also lowered when dogs “shook off” during walks on all leash lengths. The “shake off” behavior was often seen when the dog’s pulse rate was particularly high.

Read more about it below!

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1HX77kp2HBDiTxmq/?mibextid=Le6z7H

https://www.tuftsyourdog.com/everydaydogcare/giving-your-dog-time-to-sniff-on-walks-will-literally-soothe-his-heart/

What else can we learn about dogs from their walking behavior? Take your best friend on a Sniffari and see what you observe!

25/02/2024

We believe in nurturing your unique talents, empowering you to blaze your own trail in whatever capacity you set your sights on. Your goals, both professional and personal, become our focal point as we support you with the tools and confidence to carve your own path.

Our wide range of accredited qualifications and CPD courses offer a breadth of knowledge, but they also offer a truly unique learning experience, which puts you in control.

You choose which direction you want to go in, study on your schedule and convene with your tutor at a time that suits you.

Need some help?
Book a free no-pressure call - just send us a message

12/02/2024

NEW WORKSHOP

Introduction to ACE Free Work 😊

This new 3 week workshop runs from Wednesday 20th March to Sunday 7th April.

The workshop is ideal for anyone new to ACE Free Work or for those who have done some Free Work previously and are keen to learn more.

It is appropriate for all dogs of all ages from puppy to senior and also suitable for dogs on restricted exercise. It can help improve our awareness of our dogs needs and highlights areas where our dog might need that little bit of additional support. This workshop is run by Penny Leedal and Sonia Catherall, it will introduce you and your canine companion to ACE Free Work. You will be shown everything you need to get started including:

✅What is ACE
✅Getting started with ACE Free Work
✅Observations
✅Pain and Behaviour
✅Posture/Gait
✅Canine Body Language
✅Moving on with Free Work
✅Building relationships in Free Work
✅Plus so much more..........

You will have a live Zoom session each week, backup home study materials and an invitation to join a dedicated Facebook group where you can upload videos and connect with others on the course.

In addition you will be able to book an hour long one-to-one session with either Penny or Sonia to kick start your Free Work adventure.

Cost of the workshop is £95 and will give ACE credits.

Penny Leedal is an ACE Advanced Tutor, a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (mAPDT 01274) and a member of the Pet Professional Network.

Sonia Catherall is an ACE Associate Tutor, Certified Canine Behaviourist and Professional Dog Trainer.

Click on the link in the comments below to sign up, or contact Sonia for further information. Email [email protected]

09/02/2024

🐾 Understanding Canine Emotions: The Whole-Picture Approach 🐾

Dogs are more than our canine companions, they are sentient beings with the capacity to experience a wide range of emotions similar to ours. From joy and love to anger and sadness, dogs openly share their feelings with us, demonstrating a rich emotional life.

While we cannot know what a dog is thinking or feeling, we can make observations about what we are seeing (Sarah Fisher). These subtle behaviours and signals are like a secret language that when understood, can help us understand what a dog may be feeling and communicating.

But here's the catch: interpreting canine emotions isn't always straightforward, especially when trying to decipher them just from a picture!

Emotions are complex and often require context for accurate interpretation. That's why it's important to consider the whole picture when trying to understand what a dog is feeling. This includes taking into account the dog's whole body, the context in which the behaviour occurred, and the individual dog in front of you. Without this information, we risk misinterpreting what we are seeing, potentially leading to a misunderstanding of the emotion we are observing.

Next time you're trying to read your dog's emotions, remember these key points:

🐾 Whole Body: Look at the dog's entire body, not just isolated parts.

🐾 Context: It is important to consider the context in which the behaviour occurred. A wagging tail may indicate excitement during play, but the same tail movement in a different context could communicate uncertainty or fear.

🐾 Individual Dog: Each dog is a unique individual shaped by various factors, such as health, breed, learning experiences, and age. Therefore, it's important to consider the specific dog in front of you when interpreting their emotions and behaviour.

By carefully observing these key points, we can gain deeper insights into what our canine companions are communicating, which helps to strengthen the connection and understanding between us.

08/02/2024

This will be a fabulous course offered by Sarah Fisher 💕

A two week online course exploring ACE Free Work that includes access to online content, three live Zoom meetings with the course Instructors, and a dedicated Facebook group where you can upload practice videos for feedback and support.

04/02/2024

🐾 Unveiling the Impact of Pain on Canine Behaviour and Wellbeing (Part 2) 🐾

Pain is one of the most common causes of behavioural problems in dogs. A study by Daniel Mills and colleagues (2020) found 28 to 82% of 100 behavioural cases involved some form of painful condition. Behavioural problems that have been linked to pain include defensive behaviours, house soiling, attention seeking behaviours, compulsive type behaviours, fearful reactions, hiding, pica, destructiveness, resource guarding, decrease in physical activity, aggression, problems sleeping and refusal to go in walks These findings highlight the profound influence of pain on a dog's behaviour.

Detecting pain and underlying medical conditions in dogs is a challenging task for veterinarians because dogs lack the ability to describe or indicate the source of their pain, unlike humans. Often, there are no visible clinical signs of illness apart from behavioural changes. As guardians, we play an important role in observing and identifying these subtle changes, highlighting the importance of sharing our observations with veterinary professionals.

If your dog presents with a new or existing behavioural problem, the first step is to schedule a veterinary health check. This health check is important to identify and treat any underlying medical conditions before implementing a training plan. A comprehensive support plan may include collaboration with professionals such as veterinarians, physiotherapists, hydrotherapists, and a behaviourist to provide the care and support your dog needs. By taking this proactive approach, we ensure that the root causes of a dog's behavioural changes, which may be linked to hidden health issues, are effectively treated, ultimately promoting the overall wellbeing of our canine companions.