A Valentine ❤️
Not every Valentine’s Day comes wrapped in roses and romance, and that’s okay. For some (me included) a wagging tail, a soft nuzzle, and unconditional love are everything. Today, I’m sharing a little poem I channeled 💛
Let this be a gentle reminder that you are never truly alone 🌞🐾
You are loved. You matter. And you are never alone in this beautiful, shared journey we are all on. Just remember if your dog is your greatest love, you are already so deeply loved 💛
✨ If this resonates with you, share it with someone who might need a little love today ✨
#ValentinesDay #GundogLovers #UnconditionalLove #Holistictrainer #SelfCareVibes
🛑 STOP turning tug into a battle! If your gundog refuses to let go, they’re not being stubborn, they just think releasing means they are about to lose their toy.
In Edition Dog, Issue 76, I break down ways to fix this! Here’s what you need to know ⬇️
What if you could teach your gundog that 'OUT' (releasing their toy) = More Play?
That’s exactly what I talk about in my article in Edition Dog Magazine, Issue 76: “It’s Mine!”, where I break down why some dogs struggle to share and how we can teach them to release things calmly and happily in different ways.
🔹 How to Teach a Reliable ‘OUT’
🐾 Step 1: Play a little then fold the toy up so nothing extra is dangling for your dog to grab onto (they just have the section already in their mouth)
🐾 Step 2: Say “OUT” while keeping the toy still, no pulling, no extra cues, just patience!
🐾 Step 3: The moment they release, mark with your reward marker word & reward.
🐾 Step 4: The reward? MORE tugging! The game continues. 🔄
🐾 Step 5: The game only ends when we are ready for the last 'out' then swap for treats or something else rewarding such as praise and fusses.
Why does this work?
Because we’re showing them that letting go doesn’t mean losing, it actually means more fun. Building more trust, and more structured play. No more battles over toys!
🎥 This video is part of a series inspired by my feature in Edition Dog, Issue 76. If you haven’t grabbed a copy yet, now’s the time! 📖🐾
Have you struggled with teaching your gundog to let go of things? Drop a comment down below 🐾
#GundogTraining #TugGame #OutCommand #GundogTrainingTips #GundogImpulseControl #HolisticGundogTraining #EditionDog #EssexGundogs
🚨 STOP Instead of CHASE - Here’s How to Train It! 🚨
That moment when your gundog sees something whizz past… but instead of chasing, they STOP and WATCH. Game changer.
A solid stop to movement prevents chasing before it even starts, making your gundog calmer, safer, and more in control.
Step 1: Teach the Stop Up Close (NO Distance Yet!)
🐾 Start on lead, right by your side.
🐾 Ask for a sit or down (whichever suits your breed).
🐾 The moment they stop, add your stop whistle (see step 2).
🐾 NO distance yet! This step is about conditioning the stop cue in a controlled setting.
Step 2: Introduce the Stop Whistle
🐾 Use one long blast + hand signal (hand up, open palm facing the dog).
🐾 Reward well, but make sure to throw the reward behind them, NOT in front, this stops them from creeping forward.
Step 3: Drop the Verbal Cue
🐾 Once they fully associate the whistle and hand signal with stopping, phase out the verbal cue so they respond to the whistle alone.
Step 4: Use It When Movement Triggers Excitement
🐾 Now that they understand what the stop whistle means, start using it when something fast whizzes past like joggers, bikes, prey, motorbikes or on birds flushing/taking flight.
🐾 The goal? They pause and watch instead of chasing.
🐾 Keep reward value high!
Step 5: Add Distance VERY Gradually
🐾 Once they stop instantly by your side, SLOWLY start adding distance.
🐾 Do NOT rush this step! Keep it in safe, controlled environments.
🐾 A long line is your best friend here before transitioning to off-lead work.
🔹 Why This Works
This isn’t about suppressing instincts, it’s about redirecting them into calm, controlled behaviour. The result? A gundog that thinks before reacting, making them more reliable in any situation.
🐶 Try this and let me know how your gundog gets on in the comments!
#GundogTraining #StopToMovement #ImpulseControl #NoMoreChasing #DogObedience #HolisticGundogTraining #EssexGundogs
🐾 Does your gundog struggle to give things up?
Whether it's a retrieve they won't let go of or a toy that they feel is precious, it's important to address these behaviours with patience and understanding.
One simple tip to help with a dog reluctant to give up an object is to mark and reward the moment they put it down even when not handing it over to you. This helps build a positive association with releasing the item. Over time, your dog will learn that letting go is safe and rewarding. 🐕✨
If you're dealing with more serious resource guarding, seeking professional help is crucial. As a holistic gundog trainer, I’ve helped many owners navigate these challenges.
For more tips and to join a community of like-minded gundog owners, visit confidentcanine.co.uk or holisticdog.co.uk. Let's work together to create a positive and rewarding training experience for you and your gundog. 🌟
#GundogTraining #ResourceGuarding #HolisticTraining #DogBehaviour #ConfidentCanine #GundogLife
If you're sitting on the fence about joining our 850am Sunday morning hoopers class then check out Martha watching back a video of how much fun she had Sunday morning 😄❤️
One Size Doesn't Fit All: Tailoring Training for Overwhelmed Gundogs
When your dog is overwhelmed and disconnected outdoors, it's crucial to slow down and meet them where they are. 🐾 Using the PAWS™ method, Pause, Assess, Wait, Start again, a simple yet transformative tool. It gives both you and your dog the space to breathe, reset, and reconnect. This approach isn't just about training; it's about understanding and patience. 🌟
Have you tried slowing down with your dog? Share your experiences and let's discuss how tailored approaches can help our canine companions thrive. 🐶💬
#GundogTraining #HolisticTraining #PAWSMethod #DogBehaviour #ConfidentCanine"
What would it feel like to have your gundog ALWAYS come when called? ✨
For many gundog owners, having their gundog come back when called, known as reliable recall, can mean different things 🐾
It could be the freedom to let their dogs explore off-lead, whether around other dogs, people, or even wildlife. For others, it’s about ensuring safety and building trust with their gundog 🦮
Reliable recall is not just a cue for your gundog to follow; it’s about trust, understanding, effective communication and more. As a Holistic Gundog Trainer, I’ve seen firsthand how a well-trained recall can transform both the dog’s and the owner’s experience.
So, what does reliable recall mean to you? How has it impacted your life and your dog’s?
Share your thoughts and experiences below. Let’s create a community where we can learn from each other and help our dogs thrive. 🐶💬
#DogTraining #Recall #GundogLife #HolisticTraining #EssexDogs #ConfidentCanine"
Please note:
I was gifted this LickiMat to try but think it's a clear winner for my old girl Rhea!
Our Gundogs are incredibly in tune with us, often mirroring our emotions. When we’re stressed, overwhelmed, or impatient, it’s no surprise that our dogs pick up on that and respond with behaviours like excessive barking or restlessness.
But here’s the good news: you can use this connection to help your gundog feel calm and secure. 💡
One simple technique I recommend is the 5-4-3-2-1 mindfulness exercise.
🌿 Next time your gundog starts barking, try this:
1️⃣ Pause and take a slow, deep breath.
2️⃣ Look around and notice:
5 things you can see,
4 things you can touch,
3 things you can hear,
2 things you can smell, and
1 thing you can taste.
This exercise helps to ground you, bringing your energy back to calm and when your energy shifts, your gundog will follow.
Give it a try and let me know how it works for you. Your gundog will thank you for it! 🐾💖
🌟 What’s one thing you’ve noticed your gundog mirrors about you? Share your experiences in the comments... I’d love to hear!
#Mindfulness #GundogTraining #BarkyGundogs #HolisticGundogTraining #Gundogs #EssexUK
Why 0ne-size-fits-all doesn’t work in gunog training!
It’s the perfect time of year to reflect on goals, for yourself and your gundog. If you’ve ever bought "one-size-fits-all" clothing, you’ll know it rarely works. Training is no different.
Group classes and generic advice might teach the basics like “sit” or “come,” but they’re often designed for the average dog, not your dog. Every gundog has unique behaviours, stressors, and learning styles.
That’s why I tailor training to suit your gundog and you. Whether it’s behaviour help, pulling, barking, or recall issues, working 1:1 allows us to focus on mindset, energy, and confidence building, the foundation of great training.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed with online advice or cookie-cutter options, let’s chat. I offer holistic training that considers both your dog’s needs and your goals as an owner. Together, we can help your gundog thrive.
Let’s start the new year strong! DM me or visit my website to learn more.
#ConfidentCanine #HolisticGundogTraining #GundogTrainingEssex #OneSizeDoesntFitAll #GundogGoals #GundogBehaviour
Overwhelmed Gundogs often struggle to engage in new activities, but with patience and small, manageable steps, transformation is possible. 🐾
At the weekend, I worked with two overwhelmed Gundogs, completely different situations but a similar approach. Both Gundogs initially found even simple behaviour games too much, barely able to engage with what was asked of them. For example, one started by just being able to acknowledge a dummy a few steps ahead. It wasn’t that the dog couldn’t see it, it was too overwhelmed to point it out or interact with it. No pressure, just encouragement and rewards for tiny successes.
Fast forward a few weeks, and this Gundogs is running in, tail wagging, excited to play “Go Find”! The difference? Confidence built over time and no pressure to succeed!
If your gundog struggles to engage, don’t give up. Break the game down into baby steps, celebrate every small win, and watch how they grow. Remember: progress is progress, no matter how small it looks to others. Have you tried breaking things into baby steps for your dog? Let me know!
#ConfidentCanine #GundogTraining #OverwhelmedGundogs #GundogTrainingJourney #HolisticGundogTraining
Planning is everything when it comes to behaviour skills or solving problems with your gundog. A clear, actionable plan helps you and your dog stay on track without either of you feeling overwhelmed.
That’s why I always focus on creating "needle-moving" steps for you to work on between sessions, things that actually make a difference. Sometimes, it’s about working on just two key actions that week. Other times, for more complex challenges like house reactivity, we dive into bigger, multi-step plans. This might include management tools like baby gates or signage to guide how others interact with your dog.
What’s key is that you feel supported and know the next steps. I ensure my clients get this clarity, with support in between sessions if something doesn’t quite click. A plan isn’t just a map—it’s your confidence builder. If you're working with a trainer, make sure you're getting a plan that works for you and your dog, with space to ask questions and learn in a way that feels clear and achievable.
Do you feel like you have a clear plan with your dog? Let me know in the comments!
#ConfidentCanine #GundogTraining #BehaviourPlans #HolisticDogTraining #EssexDogs #DogTrainerUK
