Paws Academy Dog Training

Paws Academy Dog Training We offer professional, reward-based dog training tailored to your dog’s needs.

Led by a qualified behaviourist, we provide puppy classes, behaviour support, and agility training using positive methods to build confidence and create a well-behaved dog. Welcome to Paws Academy Dog Training

With over 30 years of experience, Paws Academy provides professional dog training and behaviour support, both online and through one-to-one and group classes in Co Mayo. Led by a qualified

trainer and behaviourist, we are dedicated to using force-free, science-backed methods to achieve lasting, positive results. Our training is vet recommended, and we specialise in supporting all behavioural challenges, with significant experience working with rescue dogs. Our services include:
* Puppy training classes
* Specialised workshops
* Behaviour modification programmes
* Agility training
* Online training

At Paws Academy, we are committed to helping you develop a well-behaved, confident, and happy dog through ethical, reward-based training.

16/02/2025

Thinking about using an electric fence with a shock collar?

They rely on fear and pain, leading to stress, anxiety, and even aggression. Worse, they don’t always work! 👇 there are better options, we can help ♥️

16/02/2025

FYI - ref FCI agility 🐾

Enrolment for our next puppy classes starting in Mid March is now open ‼Don't delay - start your puppy off the right way...
15/02/2025

Enrolment for our next puppy classes starting in Mid March is now open ‼

Don't delay - start your puppy off the right way from day one, with training that clicks :)

15/02/2025

Need support with barking, lunging, aggressive or anxious behaviours, leash pulling, lack of recall, jumping up, over excitement and more….Discover what happens at our initial in-depth consultation 👇

Happy Valentines! ❤🐾❤🐾❤🐾
14/02/2025

Happy Valentines! ❤🐾❤🐾❤🐾

Understanding Your Dog’s Needs: A Hierarchy for Effective TrainingDogs rely on us for their well-being, but are we meeti...
13/02/2025

Understanding Your Dog’s Needs: A Hierarchy for Effective Training

Dogs rely on us for their well-being, but are we meeting their needs in the right order? Understanding what drives their behaviour can make training easier and more effective.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a well-known psychological theory that explains human motivation. It starts with basic survival needs and moves up to emotional fulfilment and self-actualisation. While dogs have different requirements from humans, they too have a hierarchy of needs. Addressing these in the right order can create a well-adjusted, happy dog that responds positively to training.

A Dog’s Hierarchy of Needs

Like Maslow’s model, a dog’s needs can be organised into five levels, starting with the most basic and building upwards. Let’s break it down.

1. Physiological Needs – The Basics for Survival

Before you can teach your dog anything, they need to be well-fed, hydrated, and rested. A hungry or exhausted dog isn’t going to focus on training.
▪Provide a balanced diet with high-quality food that suits their breed, size, and age.
▪Ensure constant access to fresh water.
▪Create a comfortable sleeping space where they feel safe.
▪Exercise is vital—not just for physical health but also to burn off excess energy.

When these needs aren’t met, dogs may show destructive behaviour, excessive barking, or difficulty concentrating. If your dog is chewing the furniture or refusing to listen, consider whether they’ve had enough exercise or if they’re lacking sleep.

2. Safety Needs – Feeling Secure in Their Environment

Once the basics are covered, your dog needs to feel safe in their home and surroundings. A stressed or anxious dog won’t be in the right mindset for learning.
▪Establish a predictable routine for feeding, walks, and rest.
▪Avoid punishment-based training that creates fear or confusion.
▪Provide a secure environment, whether at home or in outdoor spaces.
▪Use a comfortable lead, harness, or crate to ensure safety during travel or training sessions.

Dogs thrive on routine. If they don’t know what to expect, they can become anxious. When training, be consistent in your cues and rewards. This builds trust and makes learning easier.

3. Social Needs – Building Relationships

Dogs are social animals. They need companionship and positive interactions to feel emotionally fulfilled. Without this, they may develop behavioural issues like separation anxiety or aggression.
▪Spend quality time playing, training, and engaging with your dog.
▪Introduce them to new people and dogs in a controlled way.
▪Use praise and rewards to reinforce positive behaviour.
▪Provide structured socialisation experiences to help them feel confident in different environments.

A dog that feels connected to their owner will be more eager to learn. If your dog struggles with recall or focus, consider whether they need more bonding time rather than just stricter training.

4. Cognitive Needs – Mental Stimulation and Learning

A well-stimulated dog is a happy dog. Just like humans, dogs need to engage their minds to stay fulfilled. If they don’t have enough mental stimulation, they may develop unwanted habits like excessive barking or digging.
▪Regular training sessions challenge your dog’s mind and reinforce good behaviour.
▪Use puzzle toys or scent-based activities to keep them engaged.
▪Allow them to explore new places, smells, and experiences.
▪Rotate toys to prevent boredom.

Dogs naturally enjoy problem-solving. Teaching them new cues, tricks, or even scent work can be incredibly rewarding for both of you.

5. Self-Fulfilment – A Sense of Purpose and Achievement

At the top of the hierarchy is self-fulfilment. This is when a dog is confident, content, and engaged in meaningful activities. Dogs with a purpose—whether that’s agility training, herding, or simply excelling in obedience—are often the happiest.
▪Give your dog tasks suited to their breed instincts, such as retrieving, tracking, or herding.
▪Allow them to make choices, like picking a toy or choosing a route on a walk.
▪Continue training throughout their life to keep their mind active.
▪Celebrate their achievements—whether it’s mastering a new cue or overcoming a fear.

This is where training transforms from a task into something enjoyable for both of you. When a dog feels accomplished, their behaviour improves, their confidence grows, and the bond with their owner strengthens.

How to Apply This to Training

Understanding this hierarchy can make training smoother. Here’s how you can use it:
▪Start with the basics. Ensure your dog’s physiological and safety needs are met before expecting them to focus.
▪Use a consistent approach. Dogs thrive on routine and clear expectations.
▪Make training enjoyable. If your dog is struggling, check if they need more mental stimulation or social interaction.
▪Recognise their achievements. Even small wins contribute to their confidence and overall fulfilment.

How to Apply This to Training

Understanding this hierarchy can make training smoother. Here’s how you can use it:
▪Start with the basics. Ensure your dog’s physiological and safety needs are met before expecting them to focus.
▪Use a consistent approach. Dogs thrive on routine and clear expectations.
▪Make training enjoyable. If your dog is struggling, check if they need more mental stimulation or social interaction.
▪Recognise their achievements. Even small wins contribute to their confidence and overall fulfilment.

Final Thoughts

Training isn’t just about teaching cues—it’s about understanding your dog’s entire well-being. When you meet their needs in a structured way, you’ll find training becomes easier and more rewarding.

At Paws Academy, we believe in “training that clicks.” If you want to strengthen your bond with your dog and create a more structured training plan, get in touch with us today.

Guys, I was contacted today by a producer from ITV (UK based) who is looking for CONFIDENT & OUTGOING personalities to ...
12/02/2025

Guys, I was contacted today by a producer from ITV (UK based) who is looking for CONFIDENT & OUTGOING personalities to take part in new shows later this year.

They have a potential show we have on the horizon which will be looking for TALENTED DOGS and their PROUD OWNERS! Ideally they are looking for people who enjoy training their dogs, just for fun.

Let me know if you are interested and I can send across the application form for completion 🙂

Happy training!!

📢 Exciting Update – Rapid Recall March Workshop Fully BookedOur Rapid Recall course in March at Drummindoo Stud is now f...
12/02/2025

📢 Exciting Update – Rapid Recall March Workshop Fully Booked

Our Rapid Recall course in March at Drummindoo Stud is now fully booked! A huge thank you to everyone who secured a spot – we can’t wait to see you there! 🐎✨

For those who missed out, don’t worry! We’ll be holding another workshop later this year, and these tend to fill up quickly. If you’re interested, you can message us to register your interest – this doesn’t commit you to the class, but ensures you’ll be the first to know when bookings open! 📩

Looking forward to an amazing workshop – see you all soon! 👏

Welcome to another Top Tip Tuesday! Each week, we’re here to share practical advice to help you take the best care of yo...
11/02/2025

Welcome to another Top Tip Tuesday!

Each week, we’re here to share practical advice to help you take the best care of your dogs. From training techniques and nutrition tips to fun ways to keep them active and engaged, we’ve got something for everyone. Stay tuned and give your pets the care they deserve. Have any tips of your own? Share them in the comments – we’d love to hear from you! 🐾❤

Frosty start to the day, but nice to get out for a chilled walk after a busy week 🩶🐾🩶(See what we did there 😂😂😂😂)
09/02/2025

Frosty start to the day, but nice to get out for a chilled walk after a busy week 🩶🐾🩶

(See what we did there 😂😂😂😂)

Anyone else relate 😂😂 🐾☀️
07/02/2025

Anyone else relate 😂😂

🐾☀️

04/02/2025

It’s that time of year again. The fields are dotted with pregnant ewes, and soon, lambs will be taking their first wobbly steps into the world. Lambing season is a crucial period for farmers, and as dog owners, we all have a responsibility to do our part.If you walk your dog in the countryside, yo...

Ever find yourself wondering how much we care? Sometimes I wake up at 3am thinking about your dog… no kidding! 🐾❤️ Don’t...
03/02/2025

Ever find yourself wondering how much we care? Sometimes I wake up at 3am thinking about your dog… no kidding! 🐾❤️ Don’t worry, there’s no extra charge for that level of dedication. Your dog is always on our minds! :)

🎉 Facebook recognised me as a top rising creator this week! I must have done something right 😂😂😂😂
03/02/2025

🎉 Facebook recognised me as a top rising creator this week! I must have done something right 😂😂😂😂

03/02/2025

‼ Find out more about why its important to keep your dog on leash this time of year around sheep and livestock ‼👇

🐾 What’s on Your Dog’s Mind?“Sunday nights are for deep thoughts… or maybe just thoughts about treats. 🐕💭If your dog cou...
02/02/2025

🐾 What’s on Your Dog’s Mind?

“Sunday nights are for deep thoughts… or maybe just thoughts about treats. 🐕💭

If your dog could talk, what would they say about training this week?

👀 ‘I crushed stay!’
🐾 ‘Can we run through the agility course again? I’m a natural!’
🍗 ‘Just more snacks, please.’

What do you think your dog’s Sunday night thoughts would be? Drop your best guesses below! 🐕💭 Let’s end the weekend with some tail-wagging laughs. 😂🐾

02/02/2025

Lovely morning for a hack out with my boys in the sunshine with some 80’s hits playing on the phone 😂

Address

Aughness South, Ballycroy, Westport
Mayo
F28YR65

Telephone

+353857574185

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Videos

Puppy school! 🐾🐾 the best job in the world! 🩶🐾🩶 Drummindoo Stud #trainingthatclicks #dogtrainingwestport #PawsAcademy #lovedogs #dogtrainingmayo #paws #dogtrainingisfun

Not all dog trainers are the same – and finding the right one is key! 🐾✨ At Paws Academy, we use only positive, science-backed training methods – no fear, no pain, just real results. 💙 #trainingthatclicks #dogtrainingwestport #PawsAcademy #lovedogs #dogtrainingmayo #PawsAcademy #PositiveDogTraining #TrainWithKindness

Love the enthusiasm to get going! 😂 #dogtrainingmayo #trainingthatclicks #agilitytraining #agilitytrainingmayo

The best way to start a Sunday 🥰
The best way to start a Sunday 🥰

Lovely morning for a hack out with my boys in the sunshine with some 80’s hits playing on the phone 😂

Get a Sneak Peak! Exclusive Excerpt from our new book Puppy Power!
Get a Sneak Peak! Exclusive Excerpt from our new book Puppy Power!

🚨🚨Get a sneak peek! 🎧 Listen to an exclusive excerpt from our upcoming book Puppy Power, coming soon! 🐶✨ #PuppyPower #ComingSoon #trainingthatclicks #PawsAcademy #dogtrainingwestport #dogtrainingmayo #dogtrainingtips #paws

Discover the Joy and Benefits of Dog Agility! 🐾
Discover the Joy and Benefits of Dog Agility! 🐾

Agility training is more than just a sport – it’s an incredible way to bond with your dog while keeping them fit, focused, and full of life! 🐕💨 From mastering obstacles to earning rosettes, every step is a celebration of teamwork and trust. Whether you’re aiming for competitions or simply having fun, agility brings endless rewards for both you and your dog. Ready to give it a go? 🏆🐾

Dog still stressed post the storm?

Storm Eowyn: Keep Your Dog Calm & Safe Through the Chaos!
Storm Eowyn: Keep Your Dog Calm & Safe Through the Chaos!

Storm Eowyn is arriving on Friday, and it’s important to keep your dog calm and secure during the rough weather. In this video, we’ll share practical tips to help your dog feel safe, reduce anxiety, and stay comfortable indoors. #trainingthatclicks #dogtrainingwestport #PawsAcademy #staysafe #puppytrainingadvice #dogtrainingmayo

🚨 Sneak Peek Alert! 🚨 We’re excited to give you an exclusive preview of one of our online training videos at Paws Academy! In this session, we are teaching the spin using clear, reward-based cues that make learning engaging and fun. With our proven techniques, you'll guide your dog step by step, building confidence and improving focus while keeping training enjoyable for both of you. Teaching tricks like spin isn't just fun—it’s a great way to develop your dog’s coordination and responsiveness in a positive, encouraging way. Ready to give it a go? Watch the sneak peek now and see how easy it is with Paws Academy – training that clicks! #dogtrainingtips #dogtrainingwestport #dogtrainingmayo #DogTrainingJourney

Here’s the link : https://amzn.eu/d/0SHMGCL. Really hope this helps xx #PawsAcademy #dogtrainingwestport #staysafe #lovedogs

Enrichment games are great as an alternative if you need to miss the occasional walk due to weather conditions ♥️🐾♥️ #PawsAcademy #DogLovers #PetTraining #fyp #staysafe

Did you know your dog’s health starts in their bowl? 🐾 Let’s talk about why canine nutrition matters!
Did you know your dog’s health starts in their bowl? 🐾 Let’s talk about why canine nutrition matters!

Your dog’s health starts in their bowl! 🐾 Learn why proper nutrition is key to strong bones, energy, and a happy life. Simplify feeding with expert advice from A Guide to Canine Nutrition! 🐶✨#doghealth #canine #caninenutrition #pawsacademy

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About Kola-Beanz

Kola-Beanz Equestrian and Pet supplies is a family run business in Co Mayo, Ireland. We are proud to be working with some of the best equestrian and pet brands, all hand chosen by us, to ensure that we only stock products that we know and trust.

This ensures that we only sell items which are superior quality, hardwearing, have a great design, plus are the latest in high end fashion.

We specialise in the HAAS Brushes and HAAS Brush Sets and have exclusive Brush Packs designed for your horses particular colour and coat. As well as stocking all the HAAS brushes individually.

At Kola-Beanz we are dedicated to providing award winning customer service, and have a fantastic customer loyalty reward scheme, called ‘Blue Points’. Blue-Points are given for every purchase made, plus bonus blue-points are awarded for sharing to FB, Twitter or following on Instagram. Plus you get money off vouchers as part of our refer a friend scheme. Your Blue-Points can then be used for money off purchases or great gifts! It’s good to be rewarded!