Mindfulness4Dogs

29/08/2025

🐾 Ever wondered what your furry friend is trying to tell you? Join the conversation about understanding your dog\'s language and becoming Bowlingual on our latest blog post! Plus, learn tips on de-escalating aggression. Let\'s chat about all things pup-related! 🐶💬

A great discussion with Wallace regarding how to understand your dogs language, becoming Bowlingual, and how to de-esculate aggression.

26/08/2025

Thinking of getting a Bichon Frisé?

Ah, the Bichon – the little white fluffball that looks like it rolled straight out of a bubble bath and into your heart. But don’t be fooled by that teddy-bear face; under all that floof is a clever, resilient wee dog with a fascinating history.

Originally, these charmers weren’t just lap warmers. Back in the day, Bichons worked as ship dogs and companions to sailors, even helping control shipboard vermin. Later they became circus performers and street entertainers – that happy-go-lucky energy and clown-like spirit made them natural crowd-pleasers. Their real job? Spreading joy. And honestly, they still do it better than most of us.

A Bichon in your life means laughter, games, and a dog who thinks every visitor is there purely to see them. They thrive on company, love learning tricks, and yes, they need that gorgeous coat looked after (think regular brushing, not “see you next year” at the groomer).

They’re not just decoration – they’re sensitive, smart, and need just as much mental exercise as physical play. Treat them with kindness, teach them thoughtfully, and you’ll have a loyal little buddy who lives to make you smile.

Are they right for you? That depends on whether you’ve got the time to be their partner-in-fun – and their hairdresser!

What do you reckon – do you have a Bichon in your life? Does yours do the clown routine or the “royalty on a cushion” act? 🐾

22/08/2025

"Want to build a stronger bond with your rescue dog? Try giving them… a little more space! 🐾

It might sound backwards, but sometimes being less available to your dog can actually help them engage more with you. Many rescue dogs have had a tough start — they’ve learned to either cling like velcro or retreat into their shell. Both are survival strategies, not signs of trust.

By gently creating moments where they have to make the choice to check in with you — rather than you always being right there — you give them the gift of agency. Freedom to explore (safely!), freedom to come to you because they want to, not because they have no other option.

It’s like dating… if you text someone every five minutes, you don’t give the relationship space to grow. Dogs are the same. 💜

Practical ways to do this:

Let them wander on a longline in a safe area, and wait for them to look back at you before calling.

Take mini “mindful breaks” at home — read a book, ignore them for a bit — and celebrate when they choose to approach.

Build short training games where they initiate interaction.

It’s not about ignoring or withholding love; it’s about encouraging choice and building trust on their terms. That’s how real connection grows.

21/08/2025

🐶 Become Bowlingual® — Dog Communication Basics
Most “bad behaviour” is actually clear communication we’ve missed. Our dogs speak volumes with eyes, ears, tails, posture and breath. When we learn the signals, we change the story—from conflict to connection.

Quick Bowlingual® cheatsheet:

👀 Eyes: soft blink = “I’m OK”; hard stare = “I need space.”

🐕 Ears: neutral/loose = curious; pinned = worried.

🌀 Tail: loose wag at mid-height = friendly; high and tight = on alert; low tucked = stressed.

🧍 Body: curved/sidelong = polite; stiff/forward = “back off.”

😬 Mouth: soft lips + sniff/lick = calming; teeth + stillness = stop now.

🐾 Movement: sniffing, shaking off, turning away = de-escalation, not “being naughty.”

🔥 Pro tip: Consent Test — invite → pause → observe. If the dog chooses you, proceed. If they turn away, respect it. That’s how trust grows.

🎙️ LIVE TONIGHT on RNZ
I’ll be chatting with Wallace on The Panel at 7:10pm (NZST) about decoding dog talk and preventing bites through better communication. Tune in and let’s get Bowlingual® together!

If you’ve got a question about your dog’s “mystery signals,” drop it below and I’ll try to tackle a few on air. ⤵️

20/08/2025

Been a bit of a media week!

I’m so passionate about helping people really understand their dogs and the communication they share with us every day. It’s not just about what our dogs are saying to us, but also what we are unconsciously saying back to them.

We call it becoming Bowlingual 🐾 — learning “dog talk”

Big thanks to Catherine for the great article showcasing what we do at Mindfulness4dogs.

And of course, the gorgeous George stole the show with his very own photo shoot 📸

The truth is, so many bites, attacks, or so-called “bad behaviours” could be prevented if we simply took the time to listen to and understand how our dogs are talking to us.

https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360790377/man-teaching-mindfulness-dogs

19/08/2025

Thinking of getting a Dachshund – normal or miniature?

Before you fall for those big eyes and the “I’m really a Rottweiler trapped in a sausage body” act, let’s talk.

✅ The Standard Dachshund – Built a bit bigger, bred for chasing down badgers. They’ve got stamina, sass, and more stubbornness than a toddler refusing broccoli. If you want a dog who’ll try to out-argue you, this is your jam.

✅ The Miniature Dachshund – Same long body, but with extra “carry-on luggage” vibes. Minis are still bold, still bossy, and still convinced they’re bigger than the neighbour’s German Shepherd. Don’t be fooled by size – the attitude is economy plus plus.

Both types are:

Loyal shadows who will follow you everywhere… yes, even there.

Prone to back issues (that long body has a cost). Think ramps, not stairs, and no Olympic high-jump training.

Hunters at heart. That means barks, digging, and chasing things that move (including your socks).

Smart enough to learn quickly, cheeky enough to pretend they “forgot.”

So, before you bring home a Dachshund (standard or mini), ask yourself:
👉 Do I enjoy comedy with a side of stubbornness?
👉 Am I cool with rearranging my furniture for a spine-friendly lifestyle?
👉 Can I commit to giving a small dog big-dog enrichment and exercise?

If the answer is yes, welcome to the Sausage Club. If not, maybe swipe left and look at a breed that doesn’t come with built-in mischief and a Napoleon complex.

— Darran the Dogman 🐾

18/08/2025

Just another day in doggy heaven. After a long run nothing better than settling down to a little grass munching.

15/08/2025

Had the opportunity to talk on ZB Talk Radio with Kere Woodham, who was discussing dog attacks and aggression this morning.

Following on from commenting on an article in the Taranaki Daily News and The Post (Online) written by Catherine Groenestein - https://www.thepost.co.nz/nz-news/360783442/patea-dog-attack-victims-cat-killed

Are you seeing an increase in aggression when you are out with your dogs? I'd be interested to hear your thoughts on this?

14/08/2025

Me and Billy had a great time presenting on Dog Safety, how to read a dogs language and de-esculate aggression yesterday at the TET Stadium Stratford. This is so important if you are a Lone Worker visiting other people's properties.

14/08/2025

Preparing to Train an Aggressive Rescue Dog – Safety First, Trust Always 🐾

Working with a dog that shows aggression is serious business. The right preparation keeps you safe and helps your dog learn without adding more stress.

✔ Read the Room (and the Dog) – Aggressive behaviour is often fear in disguise. Learn to spot early warning signs: stiff body, hard stare, growl, lip curl. If you see them, create space before things escalate.

✔ Dress for Protection & Confidence – Wear non-slip shoes, long sleeves, and clothing that covers arms and legs. Thick fabrics or bite sleeves can help reduce injury risk. Remember, aggressive dogs can redirect onto the nearest person if they can’t reach the trigger—so dress for safety every time.

✔ Have Safe, Reliable Gear – Use a secure, well-fitted harness, a sturdy 1.8–2m lead (not retractable), and a basket muzzle if advised by a professional. These aren’t punishments—they’re safety tools that protect you, your dog, and others.

✔ Set the Stage – Choose quiet, low-distraction environments at first. Keep plenty of space from triggers so your dog stays under threshold and can actually learn.

✔ Think Safety Net, Not Shortcut – Aggressive behaviours don’t change overnight. Consistent, calm training paired with safe management is key. Celebrate progress, no matter how small.

When you prepare well, you’re not just protecting yourself—you’re giving your dog the best chance to succeed.

12/08/2025

So… You’re Thinking About an Airedale Terrier? 🐾✨

Let’s talk about what life with the “King of Terriers” is really like.

Airedales aren’t just handsome — they’re clever, spirited, and bursting with personality. Bred in Yorkshire to hunt otters and rats, they’ve also served as police dogs, wartime messengers, and all-round problem-solvers. That history gave them a big brain, big heart, and big drive — qualities that make them unforgettable companions when channelled well.

Here’s what you can expect with one in your life:

Adventure buddy for life – Long walks, hikes, beach runs — they’ll be right there beside you.

Training that’s never boring – They’re thinkers with a sense of humour, so you’ll learn as much as they do.

Full of character – Cheeky, brave, and often convinced they’re in charge of household entertainment.

A coat that turns heads – Gorgeous, low-shedding, but yes… you’ll need to commit to regular grooming.

Built-in enthusiasm – Their energy is infectious. With daily exercise and a bit of purpose, they truly shine.

They do need time, training, and consistency — this is a dog who’ll invent their own adventures if you don’t provide them. But for the right person, an Airedale is loyal, funny, and absolutely unforgettable.

If you’re ready for a smart, mischievous best friend who will challenge you in the best ways and adore you forever… then maybe the Airedale life is for you. ❤️

10/08/2025

A must if you meet dogs in your work lifeor if you are just really intereted inlearning about dog communication more. Book you tickets NOW, closes tonight. (lunch included)

LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER

That Dog's Just Saying Hello…" – Or Is It?
Seminar for Tradies, Property Professionals, and In-Home Workers
If your job takes you into people’s homes, chances are you’ve met a few dogs along the way—some friendly, some… not so much. But here’s the thing: most dog bites don’t happen out of nowhere. They happen when a dog gives clear warnings—and we miss them.
Join Canine Behaviourist Darran the Dogman for a practical and eye-opening seminar hosted by the Stratford Business Association, where you’ll learn how to stay safe and confident around dogs while on the job.
✅ Understand the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signals dogs use to communicate
✅ Learn what “that wagging tail” might really mean
✅ Discover how to avoid the most common mistakes people make when approaching dogs in homes
✅ Gain confidence around protective, anxious, or aggressive dogs
This isn’t just about avoiding a nip—it’s about knowing how to read the room when the room has a dog in it. You’ll walk away with real, usable knowledge to keep yourself safe, and maybe even save a dog from being misunderstood.
Whether you're a plumber, electrician, real estate agent, care-worker, or just someone who finds themselves face-to-face with a furry security guard, this seminar is for you.
Don’t get barked at for missing this one. 🐾
Register here: https://www.eventbrite.co.nz/.../mindfulness-for-dogs...