Southport Pups

09/27/2025

Your Dog’s Coat is Talking — Are You Listening?

When we read dogs, we often think about tails, ears, or posture. But the coat itself is body language. Every swirl, whorl, and shine tells us how well your dog is coping with the world.

The Science Behind the Shine
• Hair isn’t random. Each strand grows in a cycle: grow ➝ rest ➝ shed. The pattern and direction are set by follicle stem cells in the skin.
• Stress can shift the cycle. In people, cortisol can shut down those stem cells, leading to dull, thinning or grey hair. The same biology applies to dogs. Long-term stress can flip follicles from “growth” to “rest,” leaving coats brittle or patchy.
• Nutrition counts. Studies show dogs with varied diets and fresh foods have healthier coats and stronger immune systems . Think of it like “socializing the stomach” — a variety of nutrients builds resilience inside, which shows on the outside.
• Whorls and swirls matter. The natural direction of fur is set early in development. Sudden changes (like a swirl appearing where there wasn’t one) can sometimes flag hormonal or health shifts.

What a Healthy Coat Looks Like
• Even texture and direction
• Shiny but not greasy
• Resists breakage when you run your fingers through
• Matches the season (lighter in summer, thicker in winter)

When stress, illness, or poor diet intrude, coats often turn rough, patchy, or go “against the grain.”

What You Can Do at Home
1. Do a Weekly Coat Check.
Run your hands over your dog’s whole body. Notice: Is the hair smooth, shiny, and even? Are there thin spots, sudden swirls, or rough patches?
2. Feed for the Coat.
• Add safe fresh foods to meals (blueberries, carrots, lean meats, plain yogurt).
• Rotate proteins or textures where possible. Variety = resilience.
• If kibble is the base, top it with small amounts of fresh food to boost nutrients.
3. Make Meals Enrichment.
Dogs often prefer to earn food (contra freeloading) . Try:
• Scatter feeding in the yard or on a snuffle mat.
• Hand feeding part of a meal on a walk (builds connection and lowers stress).
• Hiding kibbles in boxes or under towels for your dog to “hunt.”
4. Keep Stress in Check.
Stress doesn’t just show in barking or pacing — it leaves traces in the coat. Build daily routines with:
• Short sniffy walks (let them decompress).
• Training games that challenge the brain but are fun, not frustrating.
• Clear communication — dogs thrive on clarity and knowing what earns them rewards .
5. Watch for Red Flags.
• Sudden hair loss or changes in coat direction
• Brittle or greasy fur
• Bald patches, redness, or dandruff
These may signal allergies, thyroid changes, or other medical concerns. A quick check with your vet is always best.

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✨ Takeaway: Your dog’s coat is like a health report. Smooth and shiny usually means balanced inside and out. Rough, patchy, or suddenly different fur may be your dog’s way of saying, “I need some extra care.”

09/23/2025

The AKC Turkey Trot is a virtual 5K you can walk or run anytime between November 1–30 — and yes, your dog can join in too! 🐾

✅ You choose the route
✅ You choose the pace
✅ You get an adorable AKC medal to show off your accomplishment (check it out ⬇️)
✅ And it’s a fun way to get active with your dog before the holiday feasting begins!

🎯 Why join?
It’s not about speed — it’s about celebrating your bond with your dog and moving together as a team. Plus, it’s a great excuse to wear matching turkey hats. 🧡

📸 Post your trot pics and tag so we can cheer you on!
👟 Medal preview:
![Insert medal image here]

🔗REGISTRATION: STARTS OCTOBER 1

Let’s gobble up the miles together! 🍂🐕

09/10/2025

patiently waiting for Mike to come back from the store, hoping he brings some goodies!!!

09/05/2025

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1348461363303831&id=100044199407923

So much of the dog training world is still stuck in the 20th century. Behaviourists chanting “you need to learn about negative reinforcement” or “that’s a punishment - the dogs reduced his behaviour!”; or ethologists reducing dogs to hard-wired instincts based on village dog behaviour “you just have to learn where your dog came from man”.

Don’t get me wrong, both schools gave us something, but clinging to them as exclusive explanations does our dogs a disservice.

Guys - the science and practice has already moved on.

Tolman (1948) showed rats form cognitive maps — they weren’t just conditioned.

Garcia & Koelling (1966) proved preparedness — nausea links to taste, not tone or light.

Harlow (1958) demonstrated comfort mattered more than food.

Bandura (1961) revealed learning through observation without reinforcement.

Ulrich & Azrin (1962) saw rats working to attack intruders as a reinforcer.

LeDoux (1990s) mapped fear circuits showing emotion isn’t a simple reflex.

Vygotsky and Piaget taught us that minds are built socially and developmentally, not just reinforced.

Yet here we are: it’s 2025 and too many trainers are still peddling the idea that behaviourism (or ethology) is the whole picture. It’s not. Pet dogs are not machines, and they’re not village dogs.
They are living, thinking, feeling animals whose behaviour is shaped by cognition, biology, emotion, motivation, and social context. And we can use these studies to inform practice that works smarter and quicker and makes so much more sense to them!

That’s why at The JRH Academy, I refuse to flatten dogs into one narrow paradigm. What I teach is built on modern science - the whole picture and the experience I have applying it to create meaningful practice that works - so trainers can finally step beyond the tired “click & treat vs instinct & breed” debates and start doing right by the dogs in front of them.

If you’re ready to train beyond behaviourism, beyond ethology, and into the science of what dogs really are then this is your invitation. DM me with the word READY and I might even chuck in a discount. ###x love you!

08/26/2025

NATIONAL DOG DAY! 🐾 It's one of the the most special day of the year! It's National Day Dog! Celebrate by sharing a pic of your pooch below...

08/25/2025

🐾 For Puppy Owners

When your pup is too young to walk on the ground, you don’t have to wait to start their learning journey. Simply taking them for short car rides and letting them watch the world from the safety of the boot (or backseat with the hatch open) is like a “lazy lesson” that does more than you think.

Puppies don’t just learn by doing—they learn by watching and sniffing. Research shows dogs can solve problems faster after watching others do it (Pongrácz), they can copy human actions (Fugazza & Miklósi’s “Do As I Do”), and they even figure out smarter ways of doing something when they’ve observed another dog (Range).

At the same time, every whiff of the outside world is helping them grow. Puppies exposed to many sights, sounds, and smells grow up more confident and resilient (Scott & Fuller; Gazzano). Even familiar scents can help calm nerves (Jezierski & McGowan).

So, those quiet moments sitting safely in the car aren’t wasted—they’re building your pup’s “world library.” When they’re too little for real walks, take them for a drive and let the world roll past. Science shows those simple experiences matter.

Exercise for New Puppy Parents:

Car Park Adventure Time
1. Pop your puppy safely in the car boot or backseat (crate or harnessed if needed).
2. Drive to a calm spot—like a coffee shop car park or a quiet park lot.
3. Sit with the boot open, sip your drink, and let your pup watch the world.
• People walking by? Pup is learning.
• Cars rolling past? Pup is learning.
• Breeze carrying new smells? Pup is learning.
4. Keep sessions short (5–10 minutes). If your pup looks overwhelmed, shut the boot, drive home, and try again another day.

This is one of the easiest, most underestimated ways to build a confident, curious puppy.

“Credit to Jo-Rosie Haffenden at The JRH Academy for Dog Trainers for this brilliant ‘Lazy Lesson’ idea.

08/22/2025

🎧 Noise? What noise?While the big trucks across the street are pouring concrete, Sasha is practicing her cool-as-a-cucumber skills! 💪🐾This kind of noise novelty training is so important—especially for young or sensitive dogs. Life can be loud, and helping your pup learn that strange sounds don’t have to mean danger is one of the best gifts you can give them. 💛🏗️ Whether it’s a cement truck, a lawn mower, or just life in the neighborhood, today’s a win for confidence!👉 Try this: Next time there’s a noisy moment outside, just grab a handful of treats, go sit outside with your dog, and calmly reward quiet behavior. No pressure. Just good vibes.

08/14/2025

PHASE 2: The Proofing Phase

Phase 2: The Proofing Phase 🎯
This is where things can feel… messy.

Your dog knows the skill.
They can sit, stay, or come when called—at home.
But outside? On walks? Around distractions? Not so much.

That doesn’t mean they’re ignoring you.
It means you’re in the proofing phase.

🐾 Here’s what proofing looks like:

Your dog gets it right sometimes… and then totally blanks

They respond in the kitchen but not at the park

You ask once—they hesitate… or go sniff a tree instead

They know the skill.
But they don’t yet know it everywhere.

✅ What to DO in this phase:

Practice the skill in new places: your driveway, a friend’s yard, a quiet park

Change one thing at a time (not distance + distraction + duration all at once)

Use light distractions—don’t go straight to chaos

Help them succeed, then slowly build difficulty

Repetition in new places = reliability everywhere.

🚦 Try This: "No → call them to sit by you→ Reset"

When your dog makes an error—say they break a stay or ignore a cue:

Say “No” or "Ooops" in a calm voice (no emotion, no frustration)

Recall them back to you (if they’re moving away)

Wait 15–20 seconds with no feedback or cues
→ This is your reset. No scolding. Just pause.

Then calmly cue the skill again.

This prevents “chaining” (where dogs start thinking getting it wrong is part of the game) and helps them reset emotionally and mentally. ✨

🧠 Remember:

Mistakes still happen

It’s not time to punish—it’s time to practice

Clarity beats correction

📌 Save this post if your dog forgets their skills in public
🗣️ Comment if you’ve ever said “She knows this!” while your dog ran off mid-cue 😅
✨ Nest-we’ll dive into Phase 3: Practicing—the final step that creates fluency and confidence anywhere.

08/08/2025

✅ UPDATED FACEBOOK POST – DAY 2: Phase 1 – The Learning Phase
Phase 1: The Learning Phase 🧠
This is where everything begins.

Your dog isn’t being stubborn.
They’re not “testing” you.
They’re learning. And learning means making mistakes.

🎯 Here’s what this phase looks like:

Your dog hesitates, guesses, or looks confused

They don’t respond unless you help

They might do it once… then totally blank the next time

That’s okay.
This isn’t about obedience—it’s about understanding.

✅ What to DO in this phase:
Use hand signals, lures, or help if needed

Reward effort, not just the perfect version

Keep distractions low and training short

Be consistent, but kind—mistakes are part of learning

❌ What NOT to do:
Don’t correct them for “getting it wrong”

Don’t repeat the cue 5 times

Don’t expect reliability yet—that comes later

💡 This is not the time for consequences.
It’s the time for coaching, encouragement, and repetition.

🐶 Try This: “YES Zone” Game
Pick a simple skill like “sit” or “touch”

Say the cue once

If they do it—YES!—and reward 🎉

If they don’t, gently guide them with your hand, then reward them

End the session while it still feels fun

🌟 Coming Tomorrow: The Proofing Phase
This is where more structure starts coming in.

In Phase 2, I’ll show you how I use a calm, clear "No" (like Jens Frank teaches) when the dog gets it wrong—without frustration or pressure.
➡️ It’s not a punishment—it’s a reset.
We pause. We reset. We try again—with clarity.

📌 Save this post if you're in Phase 1
📣 Drop a comment if you’ve ever thought “My dog knows this… why isn’t he doing it?!”

08/06/2025

When Your Dog Gets It Wrong…
🔍 It’s not about punishment—it’s about which phase they’re in.

Learn the 3 phases of dog training + what to do in each one.

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The Big Question

“What should I do when my dog doesn’t listen?”
• Ignore it?
• Repeat the cue?
• Give a consequence?

👉 The answer depends on this one question:
What phase of training is your dog in?

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Why Phases Matter

Most people assume a dog “knows it”—
but often, they’re still learning… or just need more practice in new places.

🐾 Training is a journey, not a one-time lesson.
Let’s break it into 3 clear stages.

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Phase 1: Learning

🧠 LEARNING PHASE
Your dog is still figuring it out.
• Mistakes are expected.
• They need guidance, not consequences.
✅ Use prompts, rewards, short sessions.

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Phase 2: Proofing

🎯 PROOFING PHASE
Your dog knows the skill… but only in familiar places.
• They struggle when it’s noisy, new, or distracting.
✅ Practice with light distractions, build up gradually.

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Phase 3: Practicing

🏅 PRACTICING PHASE
Now your dog gets it! Time to build fluency.
• Work on consistency in real-world situations
✅ Use intermittent rewards and real-life consequences.

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Why It Matters

Each phase calls for a different strategy.
If your dog gets it “wrong,”
➡️ the best response starts with this:
“What does my dog need from me right now?”

Training is not about being perfect.
It’s about building clarity and trust, step by step.

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✨ Come back tomorrow for Phase 1: Learning
• How to recognize it
• What not to do
• One game that builds confidence fast 💡

👉 Save this post
👉 Follow Southport Pups
👉 And tag a friend who’s teaching a new skill!

08/03/2025

🐶 Keep your pup active and happy with these fun exercise ideas! Regular play keeps their hearts healthy and their minds engaged. Whether you're in Southport, Bolivia, or Oak Island, there’s something for every dog to enjoy! Check our post for some activities. 🌟

👉 Visit us at https://www.southportpups.com/freebies for more fun tips!

08/01/2025

🧠✨ The Glass of Focus – Why Your Dog “Can’t Listen” Around Distractions… Yet! 🐾

“How do you train one distractions are all around your ?”

I get asked this all the time. The short answer? It’s trained.
Focus isn’t a personality trait — it’s a skill. And like any skill, it takes reps.

But here’s the why behind it — and it’s pretty powerful. 💡

🥛 The Glass of Focus:

Imagine your dog’s focus is like a glass of water.
They’ve only got one glass — and they have to decide where to pour it.

A little goes toward just existing: breathing, walking, staying upright.
Then some starts pouring into:
• The bird flying past 🐦
• The dog walking nearby 🐕
• That weird sound across the street 🔊
• Their sore hip from last night’s hike 🐾

By the time you ask them to “sit,” that glass might already be half empty — or bone dry.

And here’s the kicker: you can’t just ask for more water.
You have to train your dog to pour it differently.

💪 That’s where daily reps come in.

Every time you hand feed a breakfast, reward for eye contact, or play tug for a recall — you’re teaching your dog where to pour their attention.

🎯 With each repetition, they get better at not spilling that focus into the environment.

They stop reacting to the movement of your other dog.
They stop watching every squirrel like it’s a Marvel villain.
They learn: “When I tune in to my person, that’s when the good stuff happens.”

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💡 YOUR CHALLENGE – Fill the Glass With You
1. Set a timer for 2 minutes.
2. Use hand feeding or a high-value reward.
3. Add a mild distraction (another dog, a person walking by).
4. See how quickly your dog’s “focus glass” drains.

➡️ Now repeat it daily for a week. You’ll start to see the glass last longer, fill faster, and spill less.

🧡 Attention is a muscle.
🟠 Repetition is the gym.

Let’s build better focus, one drop at a time. 💦🐕