EYE 2 EYE Dogs

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

13/10/2024

Hurry up and book!

07/10/2024

Does your agility dog struggle to keep poles up, pop out of their weaves or jump contacts? Is this a training issue or a physical issue? Find out whether your dog’s physical condition and fitness is holding them back - give us a call to book in for a Sports Dog Assessment. There are still a few appointments left on 19th October or get on the waiting list for our next date.

26/09/2024

"Meet Teddy the Labrador! 🐾 When we first met him, he was a young, bouncy ball of energy – full of life but a little out of control. After just four one-on-one lessons with Sarah and his owners’ dedication to working on his training, Teddy is now well on his way to becoming a well-adjusted, calm, and happy adult dog. So proud of his progress! Keep up the amazing work, Teddy! 🐕❤️ "

23/09/2024

16/09/2024

**Treadmill Hire at Eye2Eye Dogs: A Perfect Way to Keep Your Dog Fit!**

At Eye2Eye Dogs, we're excited to offer **treadmill hire** as part of our fitness services for your canine companions. Whether you’re looking to boost your dog’s fitness, help them burn off extra energy, or simply give them some extra exercise, we have the perfect options for you: an **electric treadmill** and a **slat mill**. Both are designed specifically for dogs, ensuring their safety and comfort while they get in a great workout!

**Why Use a Treadmill for Your Dog?**

1. **Controlled Exercise**: Treadmills provide a consistent and controlled environment where you can manage the pace, duration, and intensity of your dog’s exercise. This is especially helpful for high-energy dogs or those needing structured workouts.

2. **Weather-Proof Workouts**: No more relying on the weather to keep your dog active! Rain, snow, or extreme heat won’t stop your dog from staying fit when they can exercise indoors.

3. **Weight Management**: If your dog needs help managing their weight, regular treadmill sessions are a great way to burn off extra calories in a controlled, safe manner.

4. **Mental Stimulation**: A treadmill workout isn’t just physical. The new experience can provide mental stimulation for your dog, reducing boredom and anxiety, especially for high-energy breeds.

5. **Convenience**: If you're short on time or unable to take your dog on long walks, hiring our treadmills can help them get their daily exercise without needing to leave the venue.

**Treadmill Options at Eye2Eye Dogs**:

- **Electric Treadmill**: This treadmill allows you to adjust the speed and incline, giving your dog a well-rounded workout that can be tailored to their fitness level.

- **Slat Mill**: A slat mill is a non-motorized option where your dog powers the movement. It's ideal for more energetic dogs who enjoy self-paced running and allows for a full-body workout.

**Pricing**:

- **Treadmill Hire**: Starting at just **£15 for 30 minutes**, your dog can enjoy a focused workout.

- **Compulsory Induction**: For safety, all first-time users must undergo a **compulsory induction**, where we’ll introduce your dog to the equipment and ensure they’re comfortable before their first session.

At Eye2Eye Dogs, we are committed to promoting the health and happiness of your dog. Whether they need to burn off some energy, build strength, or simply enjoy a different form of exercise, our treadmill hire service is the perfect solution!

For bookings or more information, feel free to contact us or visit our venue. Keep your dog active and happy with us today!

09/09/2024

One space left!!!

ONE SPACE LEFT 😱

We have a space left on our September foundation skills course 😍

Held at the amazing EYE 2 EYE Dogs in Kingston Seymour 🐾

Message to book!