Clan Dog

Clan Dog Allan Ritchie MGoDT (MPDTI) offers advice with your dog's Behaviour & Training Online and In Person

Allan Ritchie MGoDT (MPDTI)
Master Professional Dog Training Instructor, Allan Ritchie has been working with dogs for over 40 years. He began learning his trade in 1980 as a Royal Air Force Police Dog Handler. In the late 90’s he owned and ran a dog training school for ten years, but he now trains the other end of the lead....... You! ..........because when it comes to your family dog, you are th

e dog trainer – not him! Take a look at www.clandog.co.uk to see how Allan can teach you the skills you need to live in harmony WITH your dog.

I’m Returning to Ukraine—And I Need Your Help.As many of you know, this year I have made two trips to Ukraine, deliverin...
09/09/2025

I’m Returning to Ukraine—And I Need Your Help.
As many of you know, this year I have made two trips to Ukraine, delivering life-saving 4×4 vehicles and vital supplies to people on the front lines.

Whilst there in February, I visited 'Open Hearts'—a small Orphanage near Lviv who care for over 40 children, some of whom have lost one or both parents to war.
I saw how much they were struggling with limited resources, a barely functioning kitchen, broken showers, and facilities that are in desperate need of repair.

In May 2024 I returned, and thanks to your kindness, we managed to replace the broken cooker and fully refurbish the girls' showers. It was a moment of real joy—and it was all down to many good people here that made it possible. So well done to you ALL!

I am heading back into Ukraine next month—and this time I'm hoping to raise £6,000 to purchase a safe, reliable mini-bus.
This bus would allow these children to leave the shelter (when safe to do so), to explore the world outside the their remotely located orphanage , school trips, or just enjoy a moment of normal childhood—even amid war!.
These experiences would do wonders for the kids' mental health and remind them that life is about more than just survival.

Believe me, these kids have witnessed things NOBODY should, never mind a child.

Here’s how you can make a difference:
** Donate Today** – Every pound brings us one step closer to that mini-bus.
** Share This Post** – Even if you're unable to donate, spreading the word is incredibly powerful, so thank you for that.

Together, we can show these children they’re not forgotten. Together, we can offer them hope, dignity, and freedom to just be kids—despite the circumstances.

You can read my full story here.
https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/openheartsminibus...

Thank you, for standing with me.

Best wishes,
Allan Ritchie MGoDT (MPDTI)

Struggling with a specific training challenge? Sometimes, a little expert guidance is all it takes to see a breakthrough...
08/09/2025

Struggling with a specific training challenge? Sometimes, a little expert guidance is all it takes to see a breakthrough.

This September, we're making that guidance more accessible than ever. Book a 30-minute, one-to-one online consultation with our MGoDT-certified trainer, Allan, for just £10. It’s the perfect opportunity to get a clear, actionable plan for anything from leash pulling to recall woes.

We have only 10 of these sessions available. Let's turn that frustrating 'drag' around the park back into a pleasant stroll 🐕

Reserve your spot below 👉 Link in comments 🐾

Training A Dog Isn’t Enough — We Must Train The Human Too.Not every great dog trainer can create great handlers. Trainin...
04/09/2025

Training A Dog Isn’t Enough — We Must Train The Human Too.

Not every great dog trainer can create great handlers. Training a dog is one skill; teaching someone how to train their own dog is another — and far more complex.

Too often, ‘dog training’ programs remain dog-centric, leaving the handler underdeveloped. But in real-life situations, the handler’s decisions, awareness, and strategy often determine success far more than the dog’s training alone.
If the handler lacks skill, the team fails.

A well-trained dog does not automatically make a strong team. True success comes from three levels of training: the dog, the handler, and the team.
Handlers need clarity, coaching, and accountability — not just repetitions with their dog.

Good trainers bring out a dog’s potential. Great trainers unlock the handler’s.
The best ‘dog trainers’ create teams.

Teaching is mastery — it takes patience, understanding, and the ability to develop others.
Two-thirds of failures come from the human side, so why focus only on the dog?

A lead is only as effective as the hands that hold it. To honour our dogs and set them up for success, we must first train the people holding the lead.

For me, training a dog is like blinking. I’ve been doing that since the 80’s and consequently it comes naturally.
But this is of no use to my human clients.
Why? …. because if the handler lacks knowledge, skills, timing, awareness and understanding, the team fails.

This is why two thirds of my training is focussed on YOU.
When you commit to learning through all the resources I provide, you and your dog will become the team you are trying to achieve.
See Bio for details.

Best wishes,
Allan Ritchie MGoDT (MPDTI)

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02/09/2025

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31/08/2025

This guy decided I was getting his company for the evening.
I’d rather give him a shoulder rub than a brushing! 🐕😊

30/08/2025

Stevie & Kim from Stirling asked for a home visit to help them with, Ayla’s excitement when on her lead.

Ayla had a tendency to pull in any direction she wanted to go, and bounce around like ‘Tigger’ on the way!

We need to teach our dogs the difference between ‘off lead’ enrichment time, and calm, loose lead, relaxed walking when on a short lead.

They now all have the skills to practice their ‘new way’ of walking.

If you need a little help, usually one session with me is enough to teach you and your dog how to achieve this, so drop me a message or see more info about what I do in my Bio.

Best wishes
Allan Ritchie MGoDT (MPDTI)
🐕😊👍

29/08/2025

Lead Pulling 🐕😱
A before & ‘during training’ clip.

Since 1991, over 9,000 clients have invited me into their homes for private training sessions—not just to train their dogs, but often to guide them too! 🐕🐕

Over the years, I’ve been asked to help with just about every behaviour you can imagine. Some are straightforward, others are challenging, and every now and then a truly quirky dog comes along that teaches me something new. That’s the beauty of this work—every dog, just like every human, is unique.

Interestingly, many owners don’t even mention the most obvious issues when we first meet. But regardless of what’s on their “problem list,” I nearly always start with one thing: lead pulling.

Why is this my go-to starting point?
Because no matter what skills or behaviour changes a dog needs, nothing can happen until they are in the right state of mind—relaxed, calm, and ready to learn.
We all know how little we absorb when we’re tense, overexcited, or stressed!

So, the first thing I teach isn’t a fancy trick or command—it’s how to relax, for both dog and owner. Once we achieve that, everything else becomes so much easier.

If you and your dog could use a little help, drop me a message. 🐕👌

Best wishes,
Allan Ritchie 😊 MGoDT (MPDTI)

You are the centre of your dog's world. Let's make that a place of confidence, clarity, and fun! 😊Every dog looks to the...
28/08/2025

You are the centre of your dog's world. Let's make that a place of confidence, clarity, and fun! 😊

Every dog looks to their human for guidance. When they feel secure with you, they can navigate the world with ease. A little understanding of their perspective can make all the difference.

For example, did you know?

🐾 A predictable daily routine isn't boring to a dog—it’s a foundation of safety and security.
🐾 When you stay calm and grounded, you create a "bubble of confidence" that helps your dog relax.
🐾 Learning to spot their early, subtle cues (like a lip lick or a yawn) is a superpower that prevents stress before it starts.

Choosing Clan Dog means choosing a supportive, expert guide for your partnership.
Our one-to-one consultations are built on a foundation of respect for both you and your dog. We are dedicated to providing:

✅ Unmatched Experience: 40+ years of Allan Ritchie's (MGoDT MPDTI) real-world expertise in canine behaviour and training.
✅ A Personalised Plan: Your dog is unique, and your relationship is unique. Your training plan will be, too.
✅ Empowerment for You: Our goal is to give YOU the skills and confidence for a lifetime of happy companionship.
✅ Flexible Options: We offer in-person sessions (Lothian, Borders, Edinburgh) and virtual consultations via Zoom to fit your life.

If you’re ready to become the most positive influence in your dog's life, we're here to help.

👉 To learn more, send us a message or visit our website! We'd love to hear from you: https://www.clandog.co.uk/contact/

🚨 PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT 🚨It's August 26th, which means here in the UK it's officially National Dog Day! 🐶All dogs ...
26/08/2025

🚨 PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT 🚨

It's August 26th, which means here in the UK it's officially National Dog Day! 🐶

All dogs must be celebrated with extra belly rubs, a bonus treat, and at least one enthusiastic "Who's a good boy/girl?!" every hour. It's the law! 😉

To the keepers of our secrets, the stealers of our socks, and the masters of the puppy-dog eyes... we salute you! 🫡

👇 Drop a picture of your four-legged family member in the comments and celebrate National Dog Day with Team Clan Dog👇

Dreaming of a stronger, more joyful partnership with your dog? ✨You and your dog are a team, constantly in a silent conv...
21/08/2025

Dreaming of a stronger, more joyful partnership with your dog? ✨

You and your dog are a team, constantly in a silent conversation. The way you stand, breathe, and move tells a story—and your dog is an expert at reading it. This incredible connection is one of the most beautiful parts of sharing your life with them.

At Clan Dog, we see this connection as the ultimate opportunity. It's not about "fixing problems”, but about deepening your understanding and communication so you can unlock your dog's full potential for confidence and happiness.

Why choose Clan Dog to guide your journey?

We believe in empowering you. Our founder, Allan Ritchie (MGoDT MPDTI), brings over 40 years of wisdom—from RAF Police K9 units to helping thousands of family pets—to show you how to become the calm, confident, and consistent partner your dog naturally looks up to.

We help you read their signals and, in turn, understand what you are signalling to them. Let's move beyond frustration and unlock a richer, more rewarding relationship.

Ready to explore what's possible for you and your dog?

Send us a friendly message to learn more about our personalised one-to-one consultations in person or via Zoom: https://www.clandog.co.uk/edinburgh-dog-trainer-dog-1-2-1-consultation/

“That’ll be the doorbell then?!”Tag or share with a friend or family member who turns your dog into a kangaroo when they...
20/08/2025

“That’ll be the doorbell then?!”

Tag or share with a friend or family member who turns your dog into a kangaroo when they come to visit you!
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What is Clan Dog?

Allan Ritchie

Clan Dog is a ‘one stop shop’ offering Dog loving Members access to Dog Training & Behaviour assistance, advice and continued support from Club Founder and renowned Trainer, Allan Ritchie.

The Club consists of a ‘collective’ of Dog related businesses who give Discounted Rates to Clan Dog Members, such as;


  • FREE 'Members Only' Training Days throughout the year.