https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMXkiaY3s7Vz_0NUZ5crf2w, https://www.imperialdogtraining.com/

Imperial Dog Training, Appleton, Warrington (2025)

21/09/2025

Breed spotlight- Labradoodles: The Lovable, Low-Shedding Companions! ✨

First bred in Australia in the late 20th century, the Labradoodle was created by crossing the Labrador Retriever with the Poodle, combining the Labrador’s friendly, trainable nature with the Poodle’s low-shedding coat. The result? A bright, affectionate, and versatile companion who’s become one of the most popular “designer dogs” worldwide.

✨ Pros of the breed:
✔️ Friendly, affectionate, and people-oriented wonderful family dogs.
✔️ Intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable.
✔️ Often low-shedding, a good choice for allergy-sensitive households (though not guaranteed!).
✔️ Energetic and playful they make great partners for active families.

⚠️ Things to keep in mind:
❌ Coat type can vary, some shed more than expected.
❌ High energy levels mean they need daily exercise and stimulation.
❌ Without proper training, their enthusiasm can turn into boisterous behaviour.
❌ Require regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats.

🎨 Coat Types & Colours:
Labradoodles can inherit traits from either parent, so their coats vary:
• Fleece – soft and wavy, often low-shedding.
• Wool – tighter curls, resembling the Poodle coat.
• Hair – straighter and may shed more.
They come in a rainbow of colours, including cream, apricot, chocolate, black, red, silver, and parti-colour patterns.

🔎 Heritage & Purpose:
• Originally bred as “hypoallergenic” service dogs in Australia.
• Their intelligence and temperament make them successful therapy, guide, and assistance dogs.
• Equally cherished as affectionate, fun-loving family companions.

Whether bounding joyfully on a walk, showing off their smarts in training, or curling up for cuddles, Labradoodles bring warmth, humour, and devotion into any home.

Do you have a labradoodle in the family? Are they curly coated or sleek and smooth?

20/09/2025

Takes more than a bit of rain (torrential downpour) to stop us having a good day! ☔️
A Saturday well spent with Ally taking Ebor for his first game training day of the year, lots learned and lots ti be pleased with.
Abi and Quinn went to an agility show and picked up some rosettes and qualified for Longfield Novice final next year, a pretty successful day of competition!

20/09/2025

Breed spotlight- Cavapoos: The Sweethearts of the Doodle World! ❤️

A cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle, Cavapoos (also called Cavoodles) are adored for their affectionate nature, teddy-bear looks, and adaptable personalities. First bred in the 1990s, they’ve quickly become one of the most popular companion dogs thanks to their gentle temperament and family-friendly charm.

✨ Pros of the breed:
✔️ Affectionate, gentle, and deeply people-oriented.
✔️ Intelligent and trainable they respond well to positive methods.
✔️ Often low-shedding (though coat type varies).
✔️ Adaptable to many lifestyles they are equally happy in apartments or larger homes.

⚠️ Things to keep in mind:
❌ Can be prone to separation anxiety they don’t enjoy being left alone for long.
❌ Need daily exercise and mental enrichment despite their small size.
❌ Coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
❌ May inherit health issues from either parent (heart problems from Cavaliers, joint issues from Poodles).

🎨 Coat Types & Colours:
Cavapoo coats can vary depending on genetics:
• Curly/wavy fleece – soft and low-shedding.
• Straighter coats – more Cavalier-like and may shed more.
They come in a wide variety of colours, including cream, apricot, ruby, chocolate, black, tri-colour, and parti-colour.

🔎 Heritage & Purpose:
• Bred to blend the Cavalier’s loving, gentle temperament with the Poodle’s intelligence and low-shedding coat.
• Popular as therapy and companion dogs thanks to their affectionate natures.
• Their sweet personalities make them wonderful first-time dogs and family pets.

Whether cuddled up on the sofa, playing joyfully with children, or trotting proudly on walks, Cavapoos bring warmth, affection, and a touch of mischief into every home.

These little dogs never fail to impress us with their ability to learn and take on so many different exercises. We have cavapoos across our classes, from puppy to agility and they always bring the most enthusiastic attitude to all they do.

What would be the breed for you, a cavapoo or a cockapoo? 🧑‍🦱

19/09/2025

Breed spotlight- now we delve into the world of cross breeds and we must start with arguably the most popular one of all- the Cockapoos: The Cheerful Charmers of the Doodle World! 🐾

First appearing in the United States in the 1960s, the Cockapoo is a cross between the Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle. One of the oldest “designer dogs,” they’ve won hearts for decades with their affectionate nature, teddy-bear looks, and adaptable personalities. Cockapoos are joyful companions who thrive in all sorts of households.

✨ Pros of the breed:
✔️ Loving, friendly, and thrive on human companionship.
✔️ Intelligent and eager to please, training comes naturally.
✔️ Often low-shedding (though coats can vary).
✔️ Adaptable- they are happy in both city apartments and country homes if exercised well.

⚠️ Things to keep in mind:
❌ Prone to separation anxiety if left alone too long.
❌ Energetic they need daily walks and training.
❌ Coat requires regular grooming to prevent tangling and mats.

🎨 Coat Types & Colours:
Cockapoos can inherit traits from either parent, leading to coat variations:
• Curly or wavy like the Poodle.
• Softer and straighter like the Cocker Spaniel.
Colours include cream, apricot, chocolate, black, red, parti-colour, and more, making each Cockapoo wonderfully unique!

🔎 Heritage & Purpose:
• Bred to combine the loving temperament of the Cocker Spaniel with the Poodle’s intelligence and low-shedding coat.
• Versatile companions, excelling as family pets, therapy dogs, and all-around cuddle buddies.
• Their cheerful personalities and playful spirits make them favourites across generations.

Whether bouncing happily through the park, greeting friends with wagging enthusiasm, or curling up on your lap, Cockapoos bring sunshine, loyalty, and love into every home.

We have had many of these dogs come through our training classes and are never surprised by their intelligence and capability. As a combination of two working type breed these dogs love a challenge and a well trained cockapoo is easy enough with a little bit of time well spent!

What adventures do you go on with your Cockapoo? 🏞️

18/09/2025

Breed spotlight- Chow Chow: The Lion-Dog of China! 🦁

One of the world’s most ancient breeds, the Chow Chow originated in northern China over 2,000 years ago. Revered as guardians, hunters, and even companions to emperors, these dignified dogs are instantly recognisable with their lion-like mane, distinctive scowling expression, and unique blue-black tongue. Independent yet deeply loyal, the Chow is a breed like no other.

✨ Pros of the breed:
✔️ Loyal and deeply devoted to their families.
✔️ Dignified, clean, and often cat-like in behaviour.
✔️ Naturally protective, making them excellent watchdogs.
✔️ Low odour and surprisingly quiet indoors.

⚠️ Things to keep in mind:
❌ Can be aloof or reserved, socialisation from a young age is essential.
❌ Strong-willed and independent; they need patient, consistent training.
❌ Thick double coat requires regular grooming, especially in heavy-shedding seasons.
❌ Heat-sensitive they are best suited to cooler climates or careful management in warm weather.

🎨 Coat Colours & Types:
Chows can be smooth-coated (shorter, dense fur) or rough-coated (long, lion-like mane). Standard colours include:
• Red (shades from light gold to deep mahogany)
• Black
• Blue (slate-grey)
• Cinnamon (fawn with red or grey shading)
• Cream

🔎 Working Heritage:
• Bred in China for hunting, guarding, and pulling carts.
• Valued for their strength, versatility, and loyal temperament.
• Today, they are cherished more as dignified companions than working dogs.

Whether striding proudly like a little lion, lounging with regal aloofness, or showing rare but tender affection to their inner circle, Chow Chows embody dignity, loyalty, and an ancient charm.

Did you know that Chow Chows have blue/black tongues? 👅

17/09/2025

Breed spotlight- Shiba Inu: Japan’s Spirited Little Fox! 🦊

The Shiba Inu is Japan’s smallest and oldest native breed, originally developed to flush game and hunt in mountainous terrain. With their fox-like looks, curly tails, and bold personalities, Shibas have become worldwide favourites, famous for their independence, intelligence, and of course, their expressive faces.

✨ Pros of the breed:
✔️ Loyal and devoted to their families.
✔️ Clean, quiet, and often compared to cats in their grooming habits.
✔️ Alert and confident they make excellent watchdogs.
✔️ Adaptable to both city and country life with the right exercise.

⚠️ Things to keep in mind:
❌ Independent and strong-willed, training requires patience and consistency.
❌ High prey drive, so recall can be challenging.
❌ Seasonal “blow coat” shedding is intense (expect clouds of fluff!).
❌ Can be aloof with strangers and sometimes bossy with other dogs.

🎨 Coat & Colours:
Shibas have a plush double coat with a soft underlayer and a coarse outer coat. Recognised colours include:
• Red (the most iconic)
• Black & Tan
• Sesame (red with black-tipped hairs)
• Cream (less common)

🔎 Working Heritage:
• Bred in Japan for flushing birds and small game from dense undergrowth.
• Their agility, speed, and sharp senses made them invaluable hunting companions.
• Today, they balance their heritage as spirited, active dogs with life as adored family pets around the world.

Whether they’re trotting proudly with their curled tails, showing off their cheeky “Shiba scream,” or curling up like little foxes, Shiba Inus bring s***k, charm, and a dash of mischief to any household.

The little lady that attends our classes is every inch the sassy, smart little fox you would expect this breed to be!

Do you know a Shiba Inu? What’s your favourite thing about them?

16/09/2025

Breed spotlight- Kooikerhondje: The Dutch Decoy Dog with a Cheerful Spirit! 🦆

Hailing from the Netherlands, the Kooikerhondje (pronounced “Coy-ker-hond-yuh”) was bred as a duck decoy dog, working alongside hunters to lure waterfowl into nets. They fall under the utility category as oppose to being a gundog. With their lively charm, signature orange-and-white coats, and jaunty black ear-tips (“earrings”), these rare little spaniel-type dogs are as eye-catching as they are clever.

✨ Pros of the breed:
✔️ Affectionate and loyal with their families, forming strong bonds.
✔️ Intelligent and eager to learn they excel in obedience and dog sports.
✔️ Playful, cheerful, and full of character without being overly demanding.
✔️ Moderate size and energy make them adaptable to active households.

⚠️ Things to keep in mind:
❌ Can be reserved or cautious with strangers, early socialisation is key.
❌ Sensitive in nature, so respond best to gentle, positive training.
❌ Need regular exercise and mental enrichment to stay happy.
❌ Their flowing coats require routine brushing to prevent tangles.

🎨 Coat & Appearance:
The Kooikerhondje’s medium-length coat is shiny white with rich orange-red patches, often accompanied by striking black-tipped ears. Their plumed tails and elegant, spaniel-like build give them a graceful yet lively look.

🔎 Working Heritage:
• Bred as specialist duck decoy dogs in the Netherlands, skilfully luring waterfowl with their lively movements.
• Nearly lost after WWII, but carefully revived and now treasured as a rare breed.
• Today, they excel not only as companions but also in agility, obedience, and scent work.

Whether they’re prancing proudly with their plume-like tail, working eagerly at your side, or snuggling in at home, the Kooikerhondje brings a delightful mix of charm, intelligence, and heritage into any household.

We have one of these little dogs in our agility groups, but we can’t say we’ve mastered the pronunciation of the tong-twister breed name just yet!

Have you ever heard of these little Dutch dogs?

15/09/2025

🌟Members of the Week! 🌟

Huge congratulations to Helen & Rosie for being our "Partnership of the Week"!
There was absolutely no doubt they’ve been putting in the gundog homework recently and it all came together last week! Helen stayed cool, calm, and collected, leading to a HUGE improvement across their retrieve work. Rosie is quite the fire-cracker and its sometimes hard to get her to play by someone else's rules, but this week they worked beautifully together as a team and we love to see it.

Congratulations to Georgina & Albert for earning "Most Improved this week"!
Albert, a young boxer in the peak of teenage terrorism, he usually does his best to play the class clown… but this week he turned up with his absolute A-Game and shone from start to finish. It can feel frustrating when it seems like your dog is working against you, but Georgina has stayed committed, trusted the process, and is now starting to see the rewards of all her hard work.

Training is a different journey for each individual partnership, it takes time, understanding and commitment to make long term changes that last a lifetime and we love supporting our members on their journey. 🥳🐾

15/09/2025

Breed spotlight- Dachshunds: The Little Dogs with Big Personalities! 🌭

Originating in Germany over 300 years ago, Dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals. Their long, low bodies and courageous spirits made them perfect for going underground. Today, these spirited “sausage dogs” are adored for their cheeky charm, loyalty, and endless character. They are also known as Teckel’s and affectionately called “sausage dogs”.

✨ Pros of the breed:
✔️ Bold, lively, and full of personality there is never a dull moment!
✔️ Loyal and affectionate with their families.
✔️ Adaptable they are equally happy in a city flat or countryside home.
✔️ Intelligent and quick to pick up training (when they’re in the mood!).

⚠️ Things to keep in mind:
❌ Prone to stubbornness, training requires patience and consistency.
❌ Can develop back problems (IVDD) due to their long spines be careful with stairs and jumping.
❌ Strong hunting instincts means they may chase small animals and dig in the garden.
❌ Can be vocal watchdogs, alerting you to every sound.

🎨 Sizes & Coat Types:
Dachshunds come in two sizes:
• Standard – sturdy and bold, bred for larger game.
• Miniature – smaller, originally for hunting rabbits.
And three coat varieties:
• Smooth-haired – sleek, shiny, and low maintenance.
• Long-haired – elegant with feathered coats, often a bit gentler in nature.
• Wire-haired – hardy with a wiry coat and a dash of terrier-like mischief.
Coat colours range from classic red and black & tan to chocolate, cream, dapple, and piebald.

🔎 Working Heritage:
• Bred in Germany to go to ground, hunting badgers, rabbits, and even wild boar.
• Courageous, determined, and surprisingly athletic despite their small size.

Whether strutting proudly on their short legs, snuggling under blankets, or showing their fearless hunting spirit, Dachshunds pack a giant personality into a small frame.

We see a lot of Dachshunds come to our classes from mini-smooth haired to the classic wire-haired and one thing is for sure, they have plenty of personality.

Do you have a small but mighty sausage dog?

14/09/2025

Breed spotlight- Border Collies: The Workaholics of the Dog World! 🐑

Hailing from the borderlands of Scotland and England, Border Collies were developed as supreme sheepdogs, famed for their stamina, intelligence, and intense “eye” when working stock. Considered the world’s most intelligent breed, they’re driven, athletic, and happiest when they have a job to do.

✨ Pros of the breed:
✔️ Incredibly intelligent and quick to learn.
✔️ Highly trainable and excel in obedience, agility, and canine sports.
✔️ Energetic and athletic they make ideal partners for active lifestyles.
✔️ Loyal and responsive to their handlers, forming strong bonds.

⚠️ Things to keep in mind:
❌ Boundless energy they need vigorous daily exercise and mental stimulation.
❌ Without an outlet, they may develop problem behaviours (herding cars, chasing kids, destructive habits).
❌ Sensitive and tuned into their people’s emotion they don’t respond well to harsh training.
❌ Double coats shed year-round and need regular grooming.

🎨 Coat & Appearance:
Border Collies come in two main coat types: smooth and rough (medium-length with feathering). Common colours include:
• Black & White (classic look)
• Red & White
• Tri-colour
• Blue Merle
• Red Merle
(With endless variations and markings!)

🔎 Working Heritage:
• Bred for centuries to control and move sheep with their famous “strong eye.”
• Still the gold standard in herding they are valued worldwide for their skill and work ethic.
• Beyond the farm, they thrive in agility, flyball, obedience, and search & rescue.

Whether crouched low with laser focus, flying over agility jumps, or eagerly awaiting their next command, Border Collies bring brilliance, drive, and heart into everything they do.

Surprisingly we only have one Collie in our classes, unsurprisingly she attends the agility classes because as the description suggest these athletes need a job.

Do you have a collie in your life? We’d love to hear how they keep you on your toes! 🐾

13/09/2025

Breed spotlight- the final of our working breeds if the Mighty Mastiff: The Gentle Giants with Ancient Roots! 📜

One of the world’s oldest and largest dog breeds, Mastiffs (often called the English Mastiff) trace their lineage back thousands of years. Once fierce war dogs and guardians, today they are known as calm, loyal, and affectionate family companions. With their massive build, noble presence, and soft hearts, Mastiffs are true gentle giants.

✨ Pros of the breed:
✔️ Deeply loyal and protective of their families.
✔️ Calm, steady, and gentle, especially with children when well socialised.
✔️ Low-energy indoors, often happy to lounge with their people.
✔️ Naturally watchful, making them excellent deterrents.

⚠️ Things to keep in mind:
❌ Their sheer size means they need space and careful handling.
❌ Short lifespan compared to smaller breeds.
❌ Can be stubborn, training requires patience and consistency.
❌ Heavy droolers (keep a towel handy!).

🎨 Coat & Appearance:
Mastiffs are massive, muscular dogs with short, dense coats. Common colours include:
• Fawn (with a black mask)
• Apricot
• Brindle
Males can weigh over 200 lbs (90 kg+), making them one of the largest dog breeds in the world.

🔎 Working Heritage:
• Used in ancient times as war dogs and guardians in Europe and Asia.
• In medieval England, Mastiffs protected estates and livestock.
• Today, they’re prized for their calm temperament and role as affectionate family companions.
Whether resting peacefully at your feet, standing tall as a watchful guardian, or leaning in for a gentle cuddle, Mastiffs embody strength, loyalty, and love in equal measure.

We have a Mastiff who originally joined us for obedience classes and has now turned his paw to agility! He is every inch the gentle giant as the breed suggests and despite his enormous size he can be rather nimble.

Have you come across a Mastiff? Were they a gentle giant?

12/09/2025

Breed spotlight- Boxers: The Playful Clowns of the Dog World! 🤡

Developed in Germany in the late 19th century, Boxers were originally bred from Bulldogs and Bullenbeissers as versatile working dogs, used for guarding, hunting, and later serving in military and police work. With their athletic build, expressive faces, and joyful spirits, Boxers are now beloved family companions known for their goofy antics and boundless affection.

✨ Pros of the breed:
✔️ Playful, energetic, and brimming with personality.
✔️ Loyal and protective without being overly aggressive.
✔️ Great with children they’re gentle yet full of fun.
✔️ Intelligent, eager to please, and trainable with positive methods.

⚠️ Things to keep in mind:
❌ High-energy dogs who need lots of exercise and stimulation.
❌ Can be boisterous and clumsy especially as “eternal puppies.”
❌ Sensitive souls who may not do well with harsh training methods.
❌ Short muzzle can make them prone to heat sensitivity and breathing difficulties.

🎨 Coat & Appearance:
Boxers are medium-sized, muscular, and sleek with a short coat that comes in:
• Fawn (ranging from light tan to deep mahogany)
• Brindle (dark striping over fawn)
• With or without white markings (“flashy” Boxers often have white chests and paws)

🔎 Working Heritage:
• Originally bred as hunting and guard dogs in Germany.
• Served with distinction in both World Wars as messenger dogs, pack carriers, and guard dogs.
• Today, they excel as loving companions, therapy dogs, and in canine sports.
Whether bouncing around with goofy enthusiasm, keeping a watchful eye over their family, or curling up for cuddles, Boxers are affectionate, loyal, and always entertaining!

Do you have one of these class clowns in your life? What’s the silliest thing they’ve ever done?

Imperial Dog Training

21/09/2025

20/09/2025

20/09/2025

19/09/2025

18/09/2025

17/09/2025

16/09/2025

15/09/2025

15/09/2025

14/09/2025

13/09/2025

12/09/2025

Address

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Category