17/08/2024
CJ and I had an awesome time trailing this morning 🥰
Alistair Kirk's Canine Academy
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16/08/2024
This week 3 more amazing puppy and guardian teams graduated from our Puppy Progression course and I couldn't be more proud 🥰
12/08/2024
01/08/2024
Today I had confirmation come through of my IMDT membership renewal for another year ✅ 🙌🏻 and it always gives me a great sense of pride, as to maintain my membership I have to prove I have done a certain amount of CPD every year 🤓
The IMDT was where my 'proper' dog training journey began 7 years ago and I am as proud now as I was then to be a member of an organisation that not only puts its ethical foundations front and centre, but that also encourages a strong atmosphere of mutual support between its members. 🤜🏻🤛🏻
I have since done lots of training with a range of canine training providers and become a member of several 'force free' organisations, but the IMDT will always be where it all began for me 🥰
31/07/2024
Jodie is always one of my first recommendations for Sep Anx!
It’s Here!!! Our Separation Anxiety Training Hub is live and we have 20% off for the first 48 Hours!!🙌
You can grab your spot in the Hub for just £39!
Whats included?
➡️ Step by step process of teaching your dog to be happy home alone
➡️ 50+ videos and resources
➡️ Access to a qualified Separation Anxiety Specialist
➡️ Weekly Live Q and Qs
➡️ Updated new content regularly
Head to the link below for information and to sign up☺️
https://separation-anxiety-hub.mn.co/
09/07/2024
Puppy Course graduate Barti being a super star 🥰🥰🥰
03/07/2024
02/07/2024
During the process of a Dynamic Dog Assessment, one of the steps is to talk in depth and at great length about the dog's behaviour to make sure we're uncovering any potential clues and useful information about them that may help inform any future vet investigations.
Do they always sit or lie in a particular way? Does X always follow Y? Did their behaviour change after a certain event? Do they do anything quirky that you thought might just be them being funny or unique?
We go through and take the time to cover EVERYTHING to ensure nothing relevant gets missed.
And occasionally it can mean talking to wonderful clients for a lot longer than planned, but that's just one of the side effects of being passionate about what I do 😂😂😂
29/06/2024
I've had the absolute best time over the last 6 weeks teaching these amazing puppy and guardian teams on their Puppy Progression course and this week I had the pleasure of giving them their hard earned certificates! It's been such a pleasure with an awesome group of dogs and people, and I can't wait to see more of them all in the future! Congratulations!
15/06/2024
So much this!
Knowledge about dog behaviour is important. It's a no brainer. But why? 🤔
Well, understanding dog behaviour is crucial in effective dog training for several reasons. A deep knowledge of canine behaviour allows trainers & behaviourists to create effective, humane, and tailored training programmes. Here are the primary reasons why this knowledge is essential:
⚠️ Understanding Canine Communication.
Dogs communicate primarily through body language and vocalisations. A deep understanding of these communication methods helps to interpret what a dog is feeling or intending, which is crucial for effective training.
Body Language. Knowing the nuances of a dog’s body language, such as tail position, ear orientation, and posture, can indicate whether the dog is relaxed, anxious, or aggressive. For instance, a wagging tail doesn't always mean a dog is happy; the context and type of wag are important indicators of the dog's emotional state.
Vocalisations. Different barks, growls, and whines have distinct meanings. Recognising these sounds allows trainers to respond appropriately to a dog’s needs and emotions, facilitating better communication and training outcomes.
⚠️ Addressing Behavioural Issues.
Behavioural issues such as aggression, anxiety, and excessive barking can stem from various causes, including fear, territoriality, or past trauma. Understanding the root causes of these behaviours is essential for developing effective intervention strategies.
Anxiety. Recognising signs of anxiety and understanding its triggers (e.g., separation anxiety, noise phobia) helps in designing desensitisation and counterconditioning programmes to alleviate the dog’s stress.
⚠️ Understanding the importance and relevance of health and wellbeing vs behaviour.
Physical & mental health do impact dog behaviour more than people realise. Considering possible pain, discomfort, nutrition, appetite amount of physical activity and mental health is absolutely critical before any training can start.
⚠️ Implementing Positive Reinforcement Techniques.
A comprehensive knowledge of dog behaviour supports the use of positive reinforcement techniques, which are based on rewarding desired behaviours to encourage their repetition.
Timing and Consistency. Understanding the importance of immediate and consistent reinforcement helps trainers effectively shape and reinforce desired behaviours. This is critical as dogs learn best when there is a clear and immediate connection between their behaviour and the reward.
Motivation. Knowing what motivates a particular dog, whether it’s food, toys, or affection, allows trainers to tailor their approach to each dog’s preferences, making training more effective and engaging.
⚠️ Building Trust and Relationship.
Effective, kind and modern dog training is built on a foundation of trust between the dog and the trainer. Deep knowledge of dog behaviour helps in establishing this trust by ensuring that training methods are humane and respectful.
Avoiding Negative Methods. Understanding the detrimental effects of punishment and negative reinforcement encourages trainers to avoid these methods, which can damage the dog-trainer relationship and lead to fear or aggression.
Empathy and Respect. Recognising and respecting a dog’s individual temperament and limits fosters a positive training environment, enhancing the bond between the dog and the trainer.
⚠️ Customising Training Programs.
Dogs, like humans, have individual personalities and learning styles. Knowledge of dog behaviour enables trainers to customise training programmes to suit the specific needs and characteristics of each dog.
Breed-Specific Traits. Different breeds have distinct behavioural traits and predispositions. For example, herding breeds may require more mental stimulation, while scent hounds may need activities that engage their sense of smell.
Individual Differences. Beyond breed traits, individual dogs have unique personalities. Some may be more timid or excitable than others. Tailoring training to these individual differences ensures more effective and humane outcomes.
⚠️ Preventing and Managing Problem Behaviours
Understanding the natural behaviours of dogs helps in preventing and managing problem behaviours before they become ingrained.
Early Intervention. Recognising early signs of behavioural issues allows for timely intervention, preventing the escalation of undesirable behaviours.
Environmental Management: Knowledge of dog behaviour informs environmental management strategies, such as providing adequate exercise, mental stimulation, and safe spaces, which are critical for preventing behavioural problems.
20/05/2024
Our most recent graduate from the Puppy Progression course and OMG does she pack a lot of cute into such a small body! Congratulations and well done on all the hars work to Sue and Lottie!
29/04/2024
A couple of weeks ago, these two awesome pup and guardian teams graduated from their Puppy Progression Course and I can honestly say it was such a massive pleasure to teach them and to watch their behaviour and skills develop. Massive congratulations, I can't wait to do more together in our ongoing classes!
13/04/2024
13/04/2024
Another great morning Trailing today!
18/03/2024
Well overdue but a couple of weeks ago these two awesome completed their Puppy Progression course and both did so so well in different ways. Massive well done to you all! 🥰
21/02/2024
Last week these 4 awesome puppy and guardian teams graduated from their Puppy Progression course and we couldn't be more proud of them and how they all improved over the duration of the 6 weeks!
15/02/2024
A production company has asked me to share a casting call for a new S4C programme about finding 'The Perfect Dog'. It's looking to educate people about responsible dog ownership and highlight the pitfalls of a lack of understanding of breeds that are often chosen, and the issues that can result, something I see all too often.
01/02/2024
Awesome morning planning some exciting activities, with more planning this afternoon for a different project!
Lots to come!
17/01/2024
I saw this yesterday and to be honest I still can't quite believe it.
Rest in Peace Caroline. Gone far, far too soon 💔
Caroline Cowan
8/11/1969 – 10/1/2024
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Caroline Cowan, a beloved and highly respected figure in the canine community of South Wales. Caroline departed this world recently, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, expertise, and tireless dedication to the well-being of our four-legged friends.
Caroline was widely known for her exceptional skills as a dog behaviourist, earning the respect and admiration of countless pet owners throughout the region. Her passion for understanding and improving the lives of dogs led her to become a trusted resource for those seeking guidance in training and behaviour modification.
As a trustee of charitable organisations such as Friends of the Dogs (Wales) and Kim’s Home for Elderly and Abused Dogs, Caroline extended her commitment beyond individual consultations, working tirelessly to advocate for the welfare of dogs on a broader scale. Her contributions to these charities have had a lasting impact on the lives of countless animals in need.
Caroline's compassion was particularly evident in her recent support for owners of XL Bullies, who faced increasing challenges due to evolving legislation. She spent her final months dedicating herself to offering guidance, empathy, and practical assistance to these owners, ensuring that they and their beloved pets received the care and understanding they deserved.
Caroline Cowan's legacy extends far beyond her professional achievements; she leaves behind a community profoundly touched by her kindness, knowledge, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of dogs. Her passing is a loss that will be deeply felt, but her impact on the canine world will endure, a testament to a life well-lived in the service of others.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to Caroline's family, friends, and the entire community she touched with her passion for dogs. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the gratitude of the countless lives she touched during her remarkable journey.
We kindly ask for your understanding and patience with regards to business enquiries and information about future bookings. Please bear with us as we navigate through this difficult time. Further information will be posted on our website cardiffcaninecitizens.com in due course. Thank you for your patience.
13/01/2024
CJ and I had an awesome time mantrailing again this morning 🥰
01/01/2024
Happy New Year!
Here's to what will hopefully be an amazing 2024 on the back of a pretty awesome 2023!
I'm determined to start with a smile on my face even though I've been feeling pretty rubbish for several weeks on the trot!
Thanks to all of my wonderful clients, colleagues, contacts and friends for all of their business and company last year.
Here's to so many more great times ahead!
06/12/2023
This time last week these two awesome Puppy teams graduated from their Puppy Progression Course and it had been such a pleasure to have their company for 6 weeks! They all did awesome and I can't wait to hear all about how they progress 🥰
Jan puppy courses are available now!
02/12/2023
Such an awesome morning Mantrailing today with Rhi & Chris, and we got lucky with the weather as well! 🥰
We'll be starting more regular mantrailing sessions in the New Year. Get in touch for more details.
29/11/2023
All set up and ready to go for this week's puppy classes.
Next available class starts in Jan and is booking up already!
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Videos
Sam shares her experience of working with Alistair to help her Border Collie Winnie. 🥰 A longer chat with Sam can be found on our YouTube channel, link in our Bio. #caninebehaviour #caninepain #painandbehaviour #bordercollie #dogstagram #dogsofinstagram
Do NOT make this mistake! 😂 Lesson learnt. Now where's the T-Cut. #bordercollie #scentwork #scentworkdogtraining #dogstagram #dogsofinstagram
Butternut Nutrition School 2024 graduate! 💪😎🔥 #CPD #certificate #caninenutrition #positivereinforcement #positivedogtraining
CJ has to be the center of attention 😂 #familydog #dogstagram #dogsofinstagram #bordercollie #bordercollielovers
Transport your dogs safely! #dogstagram #dogsofinstagram #dogtraining #dogsafety #transk9
There's no way she could not have her own video - Happy Birthday CJ, the best dog in the west 😍 🎉🎁🎂 #bordercollie #collie #familydog
Happy Birthday KCA!
Puppy biting - the HOOT questions! #puppytraining #dogtraining #dogstagram #dogsofinstagram #bordercollie #puppybiting
Keeping your kids safe around dogs! #dogstagram #dogtraining #kidsanddogs #dogsofinstagram #bordercollie #bordercollielovers
If you're trying to teach your 🐕 to walk on loose lead or if you're doing any training of any kind, you need to know about the concept of rehearsal 🤓⬇️⬇️⬇️ It says that the more your dog rehearses or practices a given behaviour, the stronger that behaviour becomes and the more likely it is that your dog will do it again in a similar situation in the future. This is super important‼️ because it can work for or against us. If you're practising loose lead walking two or three times a week - but EVERY SINGLE DAY you're going for a walk and your dog is still practising pulling, you are not going to get anywhere ❎🛑❌ Make sure you get rid of that distinction between a training walk and a normal walk and realise that dogs are learning all the time. So if that means you have to drive to the park even if it's 400 yards down the road, to be able to give your dog some off lead time but without the opportunity to rehearse pulling there and back - drive to the park! 🚗🌳 Keep practising your loose lead walking training, and without the rehearsal of pulling, you are much more likely to make progress 👍 #dogtraining #positivedogtraining #dogstagram #dogsofinstagram #looseleadwalking
How to make a Scratch Board - a great option to help manage your dog's claws if they're not a fan of nail clippers. It doesn't remove the need entirely for proper trimming but it can certainly help! #scratchboard #dogtraining #dogstagram #dogsofinstagram #husbandrytraining #bordercollie
New Kitchen Progress Update! We still need to sort flooring and a few finishing touches, but omg is it good to have not only a working kitchen again but an absolutely amazing one at that 😍🥰 #kitchenupdate #idopostdogcontentipromise
Active Scentwork with CJ! 👃🐶😍 #activescentwork #dogtraining #dogstagram #dogsofinstagram #bordercollie #scentwork
Do you want a recall as responsive as this? I go through my top tip for building a reliable and instant recall! #dogtraining #dogstagram #dogsofinstagram #recall #recalltraining #bordercollie
All too often people seem to confuse their dog being physically tired with content and happpy. And that's maybe because a knackered dog sleeps or rests more and bothers us less. But the key thing is how we get there - left to their own devices, free ranging dogs will usually calmly and slowly mooch around, sniffing and exploring novel environments, probably as part of a loosely afiliated group with other dogs, and they'll intersperse that with resting. They will do very little fast intense running around. If we take a look at common patterns of what we do with dogs in a companion animal setting, a lot of the time they may be at home on their own - and we take them out for relatively short periods of intense exercise to make up for it. Mental stimulation is just as, if not more important than physically running a dog until they're panting, as are opportunities for social interactions with a stable and predictable social group of other dogs, and time with you! Slower, sniffier (off lead if possible) walks are far more beneficial for your dog than worrying about trying to run them enough to tire them out. #dogsoffacebook #dogtraining #caninebehaviour #canineenrichment #getthemsniffing
Crates! #dogstagram #dogsofinstagram #caninebehaviour #cratetraining #puppytraining #bordercollie
I have been working with Benji and his guardians for a long time and today felt like a big step working in a new environment with lots of distractions and potential triggers. But he and they handled the situation superbly! #dogstagram #dogsofinstagram #dogtraining #reactivedogs #reactivity #counterconditioning
The importance of focus and attention and what we can do to work on it! #dogtraining #dogstagram #dogsofinstagram #puppytraining #focusandengagement #gettingadogsattention
My thoughts on Harnesses! Do you agree? Disagree? Let me know your thoughts in the comments! @perfectfitharness #dogtraining #dogsofinstagram #dogstagram #dogharness #caninebehaviour #comfortnotcoercion
I recently finished working with Sian, Giles and Riley and this was the update video I received this week. I. Love. It. 😍 It shows what great loose lead walking looks like in reality. Imperfections here and there but a good foundation of checking-in and engagement balanced with interest in the environment. I couldn't be prouder of them! #dogtraining #dogsofinstagram #dogstagram #looseleadwalking #positivereinforcement
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Improving the lives of dogs and their owners
Kirk’s Canine Academy was founded with the sole purpose of educating people about the benefits of non-forceful dog training methods, and to use those methods to help improve the lives of dogs and their owners in South Wales.
