EYE 2 EYE Dogs

24/02/2025

🏡✈️ Going on Holiday? Let Your Dog Train While You Relax! 🐶🎓

Why leave your dog in a kennel when they can be learning valuable skills instead? With our residential training program, your pup will receive expert training while you enjoy your time away.

✅ Obedience & Manners
✅ Loose Lead Walking
✅ Recall Training
✅ Confidence Building

We also cater for working dogs and sport dogs, helping them stay sharp and develop their skills while you’re away!

They’ll return home happy, well-trained, and ready to impress!

We have a very small amount of availability over the summer period

19/02/2025

13/02/2025

Myth Busting: Why 5 minutes per month just isn't right!

➡️There is lots of conflicting and confusing advice when it comes to exercise and puppies. The information can be so overwhelming! Many people will have an opinion, but what is the evidence regarding exercising puppies and joint health?

➡️We know that certain breeds are predisposed to genetic or conformation risk factors but as with anything each dog is individual. We have an extensive array of breeds who may or may not have a certain morphology, a particular shape or form, which may predispose them to joint damage: it is really difficult to give a ‘one size fits all’ advice.

➡️In one study skeletally immature dogs who undertook 15 weeks of jogging at a rate of 40 km per day had no change in cartilage content! (And realistically, 40 km per day is not a realistic expectation or aim!)

➡️In one study, running after balls and sticks throwing by the owner were also identified as risk factors for dogs developing joint issues.

Veterinary Voices: Top Tips

🩵Exercise for puppies needs to be tailored to your dog as an individual

🩵Keep your puppy at a lean body condition score, do not allow them to carry unnecessary weight

🩵Feed your puppy a healthy, complete and good quality diet appropriate for their age and breed. Getting the nutrition wrong at a young age can cause issues.

🩵Each dog should be assessed individually based on their breed, temperament and physical status

🩵Puppies should be free of hip and elbow dysplasia, and genetic predisposition to joint damage

🩵Certain high impact exercises, twisting or jarring may be risk factors for damage! Do not let your dog obsessively chase balls and toys. Avoiding jarring, high concussive (a hard blow or collision) activity during the formative months may be a prudent recommendation

➡️ REMEMBER: 1 hour of sniffing, socialising, walking, training and trotting is NOT the same as 1 hour throwing a ball repeatedly.
One will not be as obviously tiring, but will be mentally and physically stimulating, and prepare your puppy positivity for the sights and sounds of life. The other may cause obsessive, repetitive behaviour, not mentally stimulate and even may cause frustration, and will be high impact movements through our joints possibly adding to risk of joint disease.
Choose wisely 🩵

Check out more below ⬇️

https://www.vetvoices.co.uk/post/puppy-exercise-5-minuets-per-month-of-life

01/02/2025

We will be talking at South Yorkshire Police GP CPD event in June.

The seminar is a two day event and it’s 17/18th June at SYP in Sheffield.

The seminar is open to all police dog schools.

A brief overview of what we plan to talk about is below.

𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙊𝙪𝙧 𝙈𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙀𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙃𝙚𝙡𝙥𝙨 𝙐𝙨 𝙎𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙋𝙤𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝘿𝙤𝙜𝙨

This presentation highlights how our extensive experience in Mondioring, a demanding international dog sport, directly informs the selection and training of police dogs. By applying the techniques and insights gained from Mondioring, we identify and develop dogs capable of excelling in operational roles.

Key points covered include:
• Drive and Temperament Assessment
• Stress Testing and Adaptability
• Selection Insights
• Training Techniques

This talk showcases how we have shaped our approach, enabling us to build highly capable and reliable police dog teams by combining sport-based expertise with operational needs.

Contact us for booking details.

07/01/2025

Two more dogs successfully licensed. Rocco and Angus with South Yorkshire Police.
Valkyrie K9 LTD 😍😍

NEWS: Paws hit the ground running in 2025

Five new four-legged recruits have been unleashed on the frontline.

The new ‘paw patrol’ are the latest dogs and handlers to pass through the South Yorkshire Police Dog Training School, based in Sheffield.

PDs Kyro, a 2 1/2-year-old Belgian Malinois, PD Angus, a 2-year-old Dutch Herder GSD cross, PD Rocco, a 2 1/2 year-old Belgian Malinois, PD Blaze, 20 month-old Belgian Malinois and PD Ernie, a 2 year-old Belgian Malinois are all new to their policing careers, joining SYP in 2024.

The dogs and their handlers were put through their paces during a 13-week course and passed their final tests in December 2024.

General Purpose Dogs are trained in detaining suspects, finding missing people and property, and supporting public order and policing operations.

The duos join our 13 dog handlers who all work as part of the Operational Support Unit.

Dog Training Sgt Dan Lumley said: “Our dogs provide invaluable support to policing and officers on the frontline, your dog becomes your partner and best friend.

“Watching the handlers and dogs build a strong bond and put their trust in each other week on week has been great to see.

“We have some great duos and I have no doubt that all will go on to do well as operational patrol dogs.

“I wish them all the very best of luck and can’t wait to see their results come in.”

To follow our dogs’ work, follow SYP Operational Support on Facebook and on Instagram.

🐶 Photographed left to right are: PD Kyro, PD Blaze, PD Ernie, PD Rocco and PD Angus.

04/01/2025

We had the absolute privilege of assessing this girl for a policing role last week. Unfortunately she’s not suitable, but only because of a couple of tiny issues (probably never to be seen in a non operation role)

She’s a fabulous dog, very sweet, uber social, cuddly and easy going. Not a high drive Mali, but she does still like to bite and has a nice level of possession.

She already walks on a loose lead, always wants to stay with you and is great out in public. She’s an ideal active pet for someone with shepherd experience or a dog trainers dog. She would for sure compete in national level sport to with training.

Check out Aura’s Dogs UK for more information ❤️

02/12/2024

Have you bumped into any of our trainee police dogs while you’ve been at the barn? Paco and Angus have just licensed with 4 more dogs to go before Christmas! 🤩🤩

30/11/2024

Thinking About Getting a Puppy for Your Child? Here’s What You Need to Know

A puppy under the tree sounds like the perfect Christmas gift for your child, but before you bring one home, take a moment to think about the realities of raising a dog. While the excitement might be high at first, the long-term responsibility often falls on the parents, not the kids.

Here are some key questions to ask yourself before making the decision:

🎄1. How much training will I have to do?
Realistically, you’ll need to attend training classes with your puppy from about 10 weeks old up until they’re 18 months if you want a well-behaved adult dog. Training is not a short-term task—it’s a long-term commitment.

🎄2. How often will I have to train my puppy?
Training doesn’t just happen in a class once a week. You’ll need to reinforce what you’ve learned at home at least three to four times a week to see results and build consistent behavior.

🎄3. Do I need training classes?
Yes! Even if you think you’re good at training dogs, skipping classes is often a mistake. Professional dog trainers see the fallout from people trying to train on their own without proper guidance—it can lead to bad habits and behavior issues that are hard to fix

🎄4. What breed should I get?
If you’ve considered the warnings and still feel ready to commit, talk to a professional dog trainer before deciding on a breed. Most trainers are happy to offer advice for free and can guide you to a breed that matches your family’s lifestyle. They may even help you source a responsible breeder to ensure you make the right choice.

💪Important note: Avoid selecting a puppy bred from working lines (e.g., herding, guarding, or hunting dogs). These dogs are bred for high energy, intelligence, and drive, which makes them a terrible fit for a pet home. Without the constant stimulation and challenges they need, they can become destructive, unhappy, and difficult to manage.

🎄5. Will raising my puppy in a certain way guarantee they’ll be happy, obedient, and sociable?
No, it doesn’t guarantee anything. Genetics, breed, and puppy selection play a huge role in temperament and behavior. Consistency in training and socialization is critical, but even then, there’s no 100% guarantee.

🎄6. Will the puppy get along with my kids?
Maybe? This is why using a professional can help with selection…Some breeds are genetically predisposed to behaviors like resource guarding, which can lead to issues around children if not handled correctly. Without proper knowledge and training, this can result in a dog that isn’t safe around kids.

🎄7. Should I crate-train my puppy?
Yes, crate training is highly advisable. It makes vet visits and travel less stressful for your dog and provides a safe space for them to relax. A crate also gives the puppy an area where they can escape from children when they need downtime.

🎄8. Will my puppy want to be with my kids all the time?
Maybe at first, but that’s not always healthy. Puppies and dogs need space and rest just like humans do. Teaching your kids to respect the dog’s boundaries is essential for a happy, safe relationship.

Final Thoughts

Bringing a puppy into your home is a major, lifelong commitment. If you’re considering this step, make sure you’re fully prepared for the responsibility—not just in the short term but for the next 10–15 years. Remember, this isn’t just your child’s puppy—it’s your responsibility.

If you’ve carefully thought it through, consulted with a professional, and are ready to make the commitment, then great! But if there’s any hesitation, it’s okay to wait until the timing is right.

26/11/2024

Oh my goodness , I’ve just turned on my ancient laptop and found this video that I must’ve been mid making God knows how many years ago!! This footage must be almost 10 years old I’m sure! See if you can spot your face! How I absolutely loved these days!! Some of my favourite clients in this video, some of who are now Dog trainers themselves!! 🤩🤩🤩

24/11/2024

Why Doggy Daycare for Working Line Dogs Can Be a Recipe for Disaster

As someone passionate about working-line dogs, I’ve noticed a growing trend: well-meaning owners putting their high-drive, purpose-bred dogs into traditional doggy daycare settings. On the surface, this might seem like a great way to keep them entertained while you’re at work. However, for working-line breeds, doggy daycare can actually do more harm than good. Here’s why.

The Problem with Over-Socializing Working-Line Dogs

Working-line dogs—like Malinois, German Shepherds, Border Collies, and similar breeds—are bred for focus, drive, and a job to do. They thrive on structure, purpose, and the ability to work closely with their handler. When these dogs are placed in a daycare setting, where the focus is on constant socialization and free-for-all play, they often become overwhelmed or frustrated.

In traditional doggy daycare, dogs are encouraged to interact with many different dogs in an unstructured way. While this might work for low-energy or companion breeds, working-line dogs often misinterpret this environment

1. Frustration Builds Reactivity:
Over-exposure to other dogs can create pent-up frustration, especially if your working dog is on the leash while others are running loose, or if they lack the chance to decompress properly. This frustration can easily spill over into reactivity, where they bark, lunge, or display aggressive behaviors due to overstimulation or lack of control.

2. Socialization ≠ Overexposure:
Socialization is vital for any dog, but for working-line breeds, it needs to be done thoughtfully. These dogs benefit more from controlled, one-on-one interactions and exposure to new environments under their handler’s guidance. Daycare settings often strip away that control, creating chaotic situations that lead to stress instead of confidence.


3. Lack of Mental Stimulation:
A working-line dog needs mental challenges, like training or problem-solving exercises, far more than they need hours of rough-and-tumble play. Daycare can leave them physically tired but mentally unsatisfied—a recipe for destructive behaviors when they get home.

The Importance of Structure for Working-Line Dogs

These breeds are not just pets; they’re athletes and workers. They need structure, consistency, and purpose in their daily lives. A traditional daycare environment can quickly unravel the training you’ve worked so hard to build, as your dog learns that impulsivity and chaos are acceptable behaviors.

Instead of daycare, consider alternatives like:
• Structured training classes that focus on obedience or sports like agility or scent work.
• One-on-one enrichment activities such as puzzles, flirt poles, or tug sessions.
• Controlled playdates with dogs they already know and trust, under supervision.
• Professional handlers or trainers who understand the specific needs of working-line breeds.

Know Your Dog’s Needs

Working-line dogs are incredible animals, capable of extraordinary things. But when their natural drives and instincts are ignored—or worse, mishandled—they can become anxious, reactive, or even dangerous. Understanding what makes your dog tick is the first step to giving them a fulfilled, happy life.

While doggy daycare might sound convenient, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. For working-line dogs, it’s often the opposite. Be their advocate, and choose activities and environments that respect their unique temperament and drive. Your dog will thank you with focus, loyalty, and the kind of bond only working breeds can offer.

What’s your experience with dog daycare? Share your thoughts below!

21/11/2024

🐾 Temporary Job Opportunity with Valkyrie K9 LTD 🐾

We’re looking for someone local to Clevedon to help care for and train our trainee Police Dogs on a temporary basis from 11th January 2025 for approximately four weeks while one of us is out for a medical procedure.

What We Need:

• Daily support throughout January.
• Experience in working dog care.
• Someone reliable, hands-on, and passionate about dogs.
• Must be local to Clevedon and able to drive to our venue every day.

Your Role:

• Working alongside our Trainer to care for and exercise our trainee Police Dogs.
• Assisting with their training and ensuring their well-being.

If you’re interested and meet the requirements, get in touch!

📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Call: 07756147840

20/11/2024

🐾 Calling All Dog Trainers! 🐾

North Somerset / Bristol / W-S-M / South West

Looking for a professional, weatherproof space to run your dog training classes? Our indoor barn at Eye2Eye Dogs is the perfect venue for your sessions!

🌟 Monday night slots are currently available, so it’s a great opportunity to grow your business and train your clients’ dogs in a secure, fully-equipped space.

💻 Easy Online Booking
📅 Flexible scheduling (check for available slots!)
💷 Starting at just £15/hour

👉 Find out more or book your slot via WhatsApp: (07756) 147840

19/11/2024

Spot the venue!

We had the pleasure of letting our old friends at The School of Canine Science in to film an amazing new course with Corinne Wrend. Check it out now while it’s on offer!

12/11/2024

A problem I am familiar with in the working dog world: trainers—especially women—who choose positive training methods are often met with criticism or even outright bullying from those who believe only in harsher, hands-on approaches. This isn’t just unproductive; it’s disrespectful to the diversity of training styles that make our community strong.

Here’s the reality: training should be about the dog and what brings out the best in them, not about proving how “tough” or “dominant” we are as handlers. Positive doesn’t mean permissive. For many trainers, using reinforcement-based methods means skillfully guiding their dogs to be confident, engaged, and eager to work—without necessarily making them robotic or suppressing their natural character.

Experienced positive reinforcement trainers know that balance matters. Most stay away from labels like “force-free” because they understand that, especially with working dogs, a completely force-free approach is usually unrealistic. Working dogs need clear boundaries and structure, and a 100% force-free approach can often backfire, creating confusion or even safety risks for both the dog and handler. Good positive trainers recognize there are situations where firm guidance or correction is necessary; they just prefer to use it judiciously and only when it truly benefits the dog’s understanding.

Yes, there are times and places where punishment may have a role, especially for behaviors that need a firm boundary. But if a handler chooses not to use punishment, recognizing there are other ways to handle the issue effectively, that choice deserves respect, not judgment. Positive trainers understand that discipline and structure are key, and they are often just as committed to shaping a reliable dog. Reinforcement-based methods can produce strong, skilled, and dependable dogs without having to lean on punishment as the first or only answer.

When we allow a dog’s personality to shine, we’re creating partnerships that are both powerful and joyful. A positive approach doesn’t make a dog or trainer inferior; often, it requires an open mind, patience, and skill to use methods that guide rather than force, that correct without breaking spirit.

Instead of judging, let’s stay open-minded and remember that each handler and each dog is different. There are many ways to create successful, balanced working dogs. Supporting each other’s paths, learning from different approaches, and staying respectful is how we build a better training community.

So let’s keep egos in check and focus where it matters: building strong bonds and bringing out the best in our dogs.

05/11/2024