Paws Academy Dog Training

17/12/2024

Interesting read….. however training is the only thing that will stop your dog pulling on the leash…

A correctly fitted harness will provide less risk of choking or damaging your dog’s trachea over the standard collar.

An incorrectly fitted harness can cause discomfort, restrict movement and in the worse case lead to injuries or restrict breathing, so it’s essential to ensure a proper and secure fit.

Unfortunately there is no quick fix by putting your dog in a harness over a lead if they pull on the leash 🐾

NB: we use Hurtta harnesses, I’m not affiliated with them in anyway, just prefer the harness and think that they are a great fit 🙂

Dogs generally pull about 60 per cent harder on a leash when wearing a padded harness compared with a collar, even when the equipment is marketed as “anti pull” – putting the people walking them at risk of injury.

Some dogs – especially smaller breeds – pull with a force more than twice their body weight on the collar, potentially damaging their throats, says Erin Perry at Southern Illinois University.

“It’s really very shocking,” she says. “The dogs are almost choking themselves on that collar repeatedly. But the harnesses in our study just didn’t inhibit pulling in any way, and that’s definitely a wake-up call – especially because of the risk to owners.”

Read more: https://www.newscientist.com/article/2459747-dogs-pull-harder-on-the-leash-when-they-wear-a-harness-than-a-collar/

Image: CBCK-Christine/Alamy

17/12/2024

Throwback photo to competing in agility at Olympia 2003!! (Where does the time go!)

This is my only picture I have from the event 🥹 but the memory and the atmosphere I’ll never forget - a truly fantastic experience with the crowds cheering you on 😄 and KoKo was an absolute hero, she took it all in stride and didn’t put a paw 🐾 wrong 🧡

Ps - I still have that t-shirt somewhere 😂😂🙈😂😂

16/12/2024

🐾 𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗹𝗹 𝗣𝘂𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗼. 𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗼! 🐶

Spots are 𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 for our 𝟲-𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸 𝗣𝘂𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲 starting 𝟰𝘁𝗵 𝗙𝗲𝗯𝗿𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗮𝘁 𝗗𝗿𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗼 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱, 𝗪𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁!

✨ Give your pup the 𝗯𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲:
✔️ Build a strong bond with your puppy 🐕
✔️ Master essential training skills 🐾
✔️ Socialise your pup in a fun, safe environment 🐶
✔️ Prevent common behaviour problems before they start!

📅 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: 4th February
📍 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Drummindoo Stud, Westport
💰 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁 𝗧𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗮 𝗗𝗲𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁!

⏳ 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 – 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝘃𝗼𝗶𝗱 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁!

👉Further Details in the comments below!

15/12/2024

🎄 Help Your Dog Feel Safe and Calm This Christmas! 🐾

The holiday season is exciting for us, but for dogs, the extra noise, unfamiliar faces, and busy environment can be overwhelming. Giving your dog a safe space during this time is crucial to keep them comfortable and to prevent stress-related behaviours like barking, growling, or even biting.

Why Dogs Need a Safe Space

1️⃣ Prevents Overstimulation: Loud conversations, excited kids, or constant activity can stress dogs out. A quiet retreat helps them decompress.
2️⃣ Reduces Risk of Biting: When dogs feel overwhelmed, they’re more likely to react defensively. Providing a place where they won’t feel cornered reduces the chance of incidents with guests.
3️⃣ Encourages Positive Behaviour: A calm, secure dog is less likely to develop bad habits like jumping on people or barking excessively.

How to Create a Safe Space

✅ Baby Gates: Block off a quiet area where your dog can retreat, like a hallway, spare room, or corner.
✅ Crates: If your dog is crate-trained, their crate can act as a cosy haven. Add a blanket, toys, or a chew treat for comfort.
✅ Quiet Zones: Dedicate a room or secluded spot as a “no-guest zone” for your dog to relax without interruptions.
✅ Covered Areas: Drape a blanket over part of their crate or use a doggy tent to give them extra privacy if they prefer it.

How to Introduce the Safe Space

DOs:
✔️ Introduce the space early—let your dog get used to it before the holiday chaos begins.
✔️ Make it a positive experience by giving them treats, chew toys, or a Kong stuffed with food in their safe area.
✔️ Allow your dog to choose when to go to their space. Make it a place they want to go to, not somewhere they’re forced to stay.

DON’Ts:
❌ Never use the safe space as punishment. It should be a comforting place, not associated with negativity.
❌ Don’t let guests or children invade the space. Make it clear to everyone that the area is for the dog only.
❌ Avoid shutting the dog away without preparation. Gradually introduce time spent in the space so they feel secure.

Spread the Word to Keep Dogs Safe This Holiday Season!

If you found this helpful, please SHARE this post instead of copying and pasting to help more dog owners protect their pets this Christmas. Together, we can ensure a calm and safe holiday for everyone!

12/12/2024

𝐍𝐨𝐭 ‘𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭’ 𝐚 𝐝𝐨𝐠 🐾❤️🐶💕

A dog is not just fur and bone,
Not just a creature to guard your home.
They’re a heartbeat that walks beside,
A silent keeper of truths we hide.

A dog is a watcher in the night,
Ears attuned to what feels right.
They see the tears we try to mask,
Offering love, unasked, untasked.

A dog is a bridge to what is real,
A tail that wags, a love you feel.
When days grow dark, their eyes still shine,
Whispering softly, “You’re still mine.”

A dog is a dance of joy in the rain,
A steadfast friend in joy or pain.
They hold no grudge, they bear no spite,
A flicker of hope in the longest night.

A dog is a lesson in how to be,
To love with heart, unbound, and free.
Not just a dog—they’re so much more,
A key that unlocks a deeper door.

So call them “dog,” a word so small,
But it cannot capture their gift at all.
For in their eyes, there’s something divine,
A love eternal, a bond that shines.

Not just a dog—so much more,
A partner, a light, a heart’s open door.
They walk with us till the journey’s end,
Not just a dog, but our truest friend.

10/12/2024

🚨 Cold Weather Alert for Pet Owners 🚨

It’s freezing out there with frost, ice and bitterly low temperatures, so please remember to keep your pets warm and indoors as much as possible! ❄️🐶

Dogs feel the cold just like we do (though some breeds may cope better than others), and prolonged exposure can lead to frostbite, hypothermia, or even worse. 🥶 Keeping your pup safe means limiting outdoor time during these freezing conditions.

👉 Important Reminder: Salt and chemical grit used to de-ice roads and pavements can be toxic to dogs if licked off their paws. After walks, give their paws a gentle wash to prevent any potential harm. 🧡

Stay safe, stay warm, and give your dogs some extra cuddles!
Love,
The Paws Academy Team 🐾

09/12/2024

🐾 Why a Dog is for Life, Not Just for Xmas 🎄🐶

As we dive into the holiday season, let's take a moment to remember the timeless message: A dog is for life, not just for Christmas. 🎁🚫

🏡 A Lifetime Commitment: Bringing a dog into your home is a long-term commitment. Dogs are not just cute presents; they are companions for life. Consider the time, effort, and responsibility required to provide a loving and stable environment for your new family member.

🌟 Part of the Family: Dogs are more than just pets; they become cherished members of our families. Their loyalty, companionship, and unconditional love enrich our lives. Remember, the joy of having a dog extends far beyond the excitement of the holiday season.

🚶‍♂️ Lifestyle Changes: Dogs require time, attention, and care. Before adopting, assess your lifestyle and make sure you can accommodate a pet. Dogs need regular exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training. Be ready for the rewarding journey of growing together.

🐶 Responsible Adoption: If you're thinking about adding a dog to your family, consider adopting from a shelter or rescue. Many dogs are waiting for their forever homes, and adoption is a beautiful way to give a second chance to those in need.

📚 Education: Understanding the specific needs of different breeds is crucial. From size and energy levels to grooming requirements, being well-informed helps you choose a dog that fits seamlessly into your life.

🙏 Think Before You Gift: Resist the urge to give a dog as a surprise gift. Ensure that the decision to bring a dog into your home is a well-thought-out, collective choice. Discussing the responsibilities and joys of pet ownership with your family sets the foundation for a harmonious life together.

🌈 Furever Homes for Dogs: Let's make this holiday season a time of responsible pet ownership. Share this post to spread awareness and encourage others to think twice before making impulsive decisions. Remember, a dog is for life, and the love they bring lasts a lifetime. 🐾💕

Feel free to share this message on your favourite social media platforms to raise awareness about the importance of responsible pet ownership during the holiday season.

07/12/2024

🌟 Exciting News: Training Resumes February 2025! 🌟

We are thrilled to announce that our dog training programs will recommence in February 2025! With a foundation in positive reinforcement techniques—scientifically proven to be effective and humane—we’re here to help you and your dog achieve lasting success in a supportive and encouraging environment.

✨ Special Announcement: Our puppy training classes will now also be held at the stunning Drummindoo Stud in Westport! We’re excited to bring our expert training programs to this fantastic new location.

Our Upcoming Programs Include:

🐾 Puppy Training: Build a strong foundation for your young dog using positive, reward-based methods.
🐕 Obedience Training: Master essential cues and improve overall behaviour through engaging, interactive techniques.
🎾 Agility Training: Strengthen your dog’s focus, confidence, and fitness with fun, high-energy obstacle courses.
🛠️ Behavioural Coaching: Address specific challenges with tailored, humane strategies.
💡 Advanced Skills & Enrichment: Keep your dog engaged with mentally stimulating activities that reinforce learning.

Why Choose Paws Academy?

✅ Science-Backed Training: Positive reinforcement methods ensure stress-free and enjoyable learning.
✅ Qualified Expertise: Fully insured training with extensive experience across breeds and behaviours.
✅ Small Class Sizes: Receive personalised attention for you and your dog.
✅ Exceptional Facilities: Enjoy safe, welcoming environments, including our new location at Drummindoo Stud.
✅ Flexible Scheduling: Programs designed to fit your busy lifestyle.

We’ll be announcing full class schedules and enrollment details soon, so stay tuned! In the meantime, feel free to reach out with any questions or training goals.

We can’t wait to welcome you and your dog back to training in February 2025. Let’s create a stronger bond and lasting success through proven, positive methods!

06/12/2024

⛔️ Storm Darragh ⛔️

A Status Red Wind Warning will be in effect from 10pm this evening, December 6th, until 3am Saturday December 7th.

will bring extremely strong and gusty winds with potential fallen trees, debris, damage to structures and power lines

Please exercise extreme caution, it's essential to prioritise the safety of every member of your household, including your beloved pets. Here are some tips to keep your dogs safe during the storm:

1. Keep them indoors: Ensure that your dogs are safely indoors before the storm hits. Strong winds and heavy rainfall can be frightening for pets, and they may become disoriented or run away if left outside. If you have outside dogs, please consider bringing them into the home, or at the very minimum into a shed/barn so that they are out of the storm.

2. Create a safe space: Set up a comfortable and secure area inside your home where your dogs can seek refuge during the storm. This could be a room with minimal windows and soft bedding to help them feel secure. Alternatively consider closing curtains and shutting windows where possible.

3. Provide distractions: Loud noises from thunder and wind can be distressing for dogs. Keep them occupied with toys or treats to help distract them from the sounds of the storm. Consider having the TV or radio on so that there are distraction noises playing, again closing curtains and shutting windows also helps.

4. Stay calm: Dogs are highly sensitive to their owners' emotions. Stay calm and reassure your dogs if they seem anxious.

5. Keep identification up to date: In the event that your dog does escape during the storm, make sure they have proper identification tags with your current contact information. Microchipping your pet is also an excellent way to ensure they can be identified if they get lost.

6. Stay informed: Keep yourself updated on weather alerts and avoid travel if possible.

7. Be cautious after the storm: After the storm has passed, be cautious when letting your dogs outside. There may be debris, fallen power lines, or other hazards that could pose a danger to them.

By taking these precautions and staying vigilant, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of your dogs during the storm. Remember, they rely on us to keep them safe, especially during times of uncertainty and upheaval.

15/07/2024

On Friday we said our final good bye to Heidi 💔🖤💔

She was the most amazing girl, and even though we had known that the decision was coming it didn’t make it any easier 😢

Heidi was always so happy, absolutely fantastic with puppies and helping out in classes. She loved her balls, rolling upside on the grass, chasing rabbits (never catching any!), beach walks, hugs, car rides, watching sheep, and her favourite person in the whole world was her dad….

A huge thank you to the kindness, compassion and care from All Paws Veterinary Hospital in Castlebar, who made that final decision just a little bit easier (and had to deal with both of us blubbering!) your support to us and the care of all of our dogs over the years has always been first class.

Here’s to the memories of Heidi, the house is a lot emptier without you here, have fun up there meeting up with Kola, Pepzee and Kookie plus all your other friends that you made over the years….. maybe you will catch that illusive rabbit 🐇🖤

We will miss you always and love you forever 💔🖤💔 Fly high Heidi Bear 🌈

30/05/2024

🐾 **Routine Matters for Your Dog!** 🐾

Did you know that your dog thrives on routine? Consistency in feeding and playtime is more than just good practice—it's a foundation of trust and security. 🕒🐶 Regular schedules help your furry friend feel safe and happy, knowing exactly when to expect their meals and fun time with you. Keep their routine steady and watch them flourish! 🌟💖

06/05/2024

Errrmm …. I see a scoobie doo dog? 😳🙈
Credit: unknown (please dm for credit to be added)

26/04/2024

How cool is this 😎

From a hotel in Nevada.. 😄

credit: Rebecca Helgesen

22/04/2024

Can anyone help? 🤞🤞🤞🐾

17/04/2024

Always! 😂😂

16/04/2024

‼ 𝙐𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙁𝙞𝙙𝙤!🐾🐩

Ever wondered what your dog may be trying to tell you? Well wonder no more! We have put below some (not all) of the more common canine behaviours :)

▪️Tail Wagging: Contrary to popular belief, tail wagging doesn't always mean a dog is friendly or happy. The context and position of the tail are essential. A relaxed wag often indicates a positive mood, while a stiff, rapid wag can indicate agitation or stress.

▪️Body Language: Dogs communicate a lot through body language. Signs of relaxation include loose, wiggly body movements, while signs of stress or fear include tense muscles, tucked tail, and avoidance behaviours.

▪️Barking: Dogs bark for various reasons, including alerting to potential threats, expressing excitement, seeking attention, or responding to boredom. Understanding the context of the bark can help decipher its meaning.

▪️Growling: Growling is a warning sign that a dog is uncomfortable or feeling threatened. It's important not to punish a dog for growling, as it's their way of communicating their discomfort. Instead, address the underlying cause of their stress.

▪️Sniffing: Dogs use their sense of smell to gather information about their environment and other animals. Sniffing is a natural behaviour that helps them explore and understand the world around them.

▪️Jumping: Jumping up on people can be a sign of excitement or a way for dogs to seek attention.

▪️Chewing: Chewing is a natural behaviour for dogs and helps keep their teeth clean and jaws strong. However, excessive chewing can be a sign of boredom, anxiety, or lack of appropriate chew toys.

▪️Play Behaviour: Dogs often engage in play to socialise, burn off excess energy, and strengthen bonds with other dogs or humans. Play behaviour can include chasing, wrestling, and play-bowing.

▪️Aggression: Aggression in dogs can stem from fear, territoriality, resource guarding, or lack of socialisation. It's crucial to understand the underlying reason for the behaviours being displayed and not punish these behaviours.

▪️Submission: Dogs may exhibit submissive behaviours, such as rolling over, avoiding eye contact, or licking, to show deference to more dominant individuals or in response to perceived threats.

Understanding these behaviours and their underlying motivations can help dog owners build stronger bonds with their pets, address behavioural issues effectively, and ensure the well-being of their canine companions.

Happy training! 🐾🐾🐾🐾

15/04/2024

❤🐾❤🐾❤🐾❤