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The Unexpected Way My Pet Cat Helped Me Train Better Gundogs

Most people wouldn’t think that training a cat would help them better train their gundogs, but that is exactly what happened to Jessica Haines. Training her pet cat gundog commands and tricks taught her how to be more patient and consistent with her dogs, and as a result, her gundog training improved.

In this week’s PODDOG episode, Jessica shares her story with LWDG Founder Jo Perrott about how her cat helped her become a better dog trainer.

Why train cats tricks

Many people think of dogs when they think of tricks, but cats can be trained to perform tricks as well. While it may take a bit more patience to teach a cat than a dog, the payoff can be well worth it. A trained cat can provide hours of entertainment and companionship. In addition, training can help bond owners and cats and improve communication between them. It can also give cats a much-needed sense of structure and mental stimulation. And as it turns out, training a cat can also help owners train their dogs.

How to train cats’ tricks

Training your cat to perform tricks may seem like a daunting task, but with patience and a little bit of creativity, it can be surprisingly easy. The key to success is to find activities that appeal to your cat’s natural instincts and preferences. For example, many cats enjoy playing with strings or chasing objects that move. You can use these interests to your advantage by shaping your cat’s behaviour with positive reinforcement. Start by rewarding your cat for any small steps in the right direction.

What tricks to teach your cat

Cats are natural hunters, and their instinct to stalk and pounce can often result in unwanted behaviours like scratching furniture or jumping on countertops. However, there are a number of simple tricks that can help redirect your cat’s attention and turn them into a well-mannered companion.

One such trick is to teach them to target a specific object, like a toy or a piece of paper. Every time they touch the object with their paw, give them a treat. With enough repetition, they will learn that touching the object is rewarding and will be less likely to scratch furniture instead.

You can also use treats to teach your cat to come when called. Start by saying their name and then immediately offering a treat. With patience and consistency, your cat will learn to associate their name with something positive which will eventually come when called.

Although cats are often thought of as independent creatures, with a little training they can be responsive and well-behaved members of the family.

The benefits of training cats tricks

While most people think of dogs when they think of tricks and training, your cat can actually be a big help when it comes to training your gundog. Here are a few benefits of training your cat some tricks:

First, it can help to build a bond between you and your cat. As you work together on tricks, you’ll find that you have a lot more in common than you might have thought. This can help to create a strong bond of trust and friendship between the two of you.

Second, it can provide valuable socialisation opportunities for your cat. Training sessions offer a great chance for your cat to interact with you in a positive way.

Lastly, tricks can provide mental stimulation for your cat. Many cats become bored easily, but learning new tricks can help to keep their minds active and engaged. This mental stimulation can help to ward off boredom and keep your cat happy and healthy.

Tips for success when training cats tricks

Whether you’re looking to teach your cat a new trick or simply want to Bond with them, training cats can be a fun and rewarding experience for both of you. However, it’s important to keep a few things in mind if you want to set your feline friend up for success.

First, it’s important to choose tricks that are natural for cats. For example, cats love to jump and climb, so tricks that involve these behaviours will be easier for them to learn than those that don’t.

Second, make sure to use positive reinforcement when training your cat. This means rewarding them with treats or attention whenever they perform the desired behaviour.

Finally, have patience! Learning new tricks takes time, so don’t get discouraged if your cat doesn’t pick it up right away. With some practice and patience, you’ll be teaching your cat all sorts of fun new tricks in no time.

How Do I Tell The Dog The Seasons Over – From Working Full Time To Training Smart

The dog’s workdays are over for this season! Now what?

It’s been a long season working hard, and your furry friend deserves a break. But how do you tell them that the shooting season is over now?

We asked our experts, Emma Stevens of Cunningshot Dog Training and Abbie Reid of Riverlily Dogs , to give us some tips on transitioning your dog from a busy work schedule to a more relaxed lifestyle.

We’ve also asked them how we use the offseason to train our gundog further.

Where To Start

First of all, it’s important to remember that just because your dog is taking a break from work doesn’t mean they don’t still need exercise. Dogs need daily exercise, but it can be at a lower intensity than when they’re working. A good 30-minute walk will do.

So, how do you know when your dog is ready to return to training mode? “The biggest indicator that a dog is ready to go back to work is their enthusiasm for it,” Abbie says. “If they’re still as eager to work and learn, they’re ready to get back in the game.”

However, please don’t push your dog too hard during their offseason. “If you’re trying to train a young dog during the offseason, remember that they still need time to rest and recover,” Abbie says. “You don’t want to overdo it and risk injury.”

Fixing Obedience Issues

Both Emma and Abbie recommend using the offseason to work on obedience training. “Obedience training is important for all dogs, but it’s especially important for hunting dogs,” Emma says. “It allows you to build a strong relationship with your dog and gives you a way to communicate with them when they’re out in the field.”

Abbie agrees, adding that obedience training can also help keep your dog out of trouble while they’re not working. “It’s important to have a well-trained dog that knows how to behave in different situations,” she says. “Training can help prevent them from getting into mischief when they’re not working.”

Make A List Of Problems Your Dog Picked Up Whist Working

Now is also a good time to list any problems that your dog picked up while working. “If there are any issues that you noticed while your dog was working, make a note of them and start working on fixing them during the offseason,” Emma says. “This will help set them up for success when they return to work.”

So, those are our tips for transitioning your dog from a busy work schedule to a more relaxed lifestyle. We hope you find them helpful!

Back To Basics Regardless Of Your Dogs Age Or Experience

Regardless of a dog’s age, you start back with the basics. If a dog has been working since it was a pup, make sure you are still taking the time to reinforce basic gundog commands such as sit, stay, recall, and heel.

“No matter how long your dog has been working, it’s important to keep reinforcing the basics” Abbie Reid

Preparing Your Dog For The Upcoming Season

While you’re working on transitioning your dog to offseason mode, don’t forget to start preparing them for the upcoming season. “Start gradually introducing them to what they’ll be doing during the season,” Emma says. “This will help get them excited and prepared for coming.”

Abbie agrees, adding that it’s important to remind them of all the basics and get them back into training to remind them of what they knew before the last season.

Make sure you spend time working on steadiness and self-control with the dog so they’re prepared to sit patiently and wait for birds. Making sure these skills are solid is important. You don’t want an excited dog running all over the place when they’re out in the field.

Your 3D’s

You can also start working on specific skills that will be useful during the season, such as retrieving. “If you’re working on retrieving, start with easy retrieves,” Emma says. “You can gradually make it more difficult by adding distractions and working on longer distances and durations.”

Abbie recommends using the offseason to work on whatever needs improvement from the previous season. “If there are any skills that need work, now is the time to work on them,” she says. “This will help your dog prepare for the upcoming season.”

Consolidate Old Skills Before Adding New Skills

Once you’ve worked on fixing any problems and refreshing your dog’s obedience training, you can start adding new skills. “Start with simple behaviours and work your way up,” Abbie says. “Don’t try to do too much at once, or you’ll overwhelm your dog.”

Abbie agrees, adding that it’s important to take things slowly and consolidate old skills before moving on to new ones. “One of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to teach their dog too many things at once,” she says. “You want your dog to be successful, so it’s important to take things slowly and focus on one skill at a time.”

Rebuilding Your Relationship For The Forthcoming Season

“The offseason is a great time to rebuild your relationship with your dog,” Emma says. “Spend time bonding with them and doing things that they enjoy. This will help create a strong bond between you and your dog that will be beneficial when you start working together again.”

“The biggest thing is just to keep things fun,” Abbie says. “If your dog is having fun, they’ll be more likely to work hard and perform well when the season comes around.”

Training Your Dog Leads To Trust

“One of the most important things to remember is that training your dog leads to trust,” Emma says. “The more trust you have with your dog, the better they’ll perform in the field.”

“The bottom line is that if you take the time to train your dog properly, you’ll create a bond of trust between you and your dog that will be beneficial in the field,” Abbie says. ” Training your dog is an investment that will pay off when you’re out in the field working together.”

So those are our tips for transitioning your dog from a busy work schedule to a more relaxed lifestyle.

This podcast episode was about transitioning your dog from a busy work schedule to a more relaxed lifestyle. Emma Stevens and Abbie Reid, experts from the LWDG Group, shared their tips for making this transition successfully. They recommend using the offseason to work on obedience training, fixing any problems that arose during the last season, and gradually introducing your dog to the things they’ll be doing during the upcoming season. By taking things slowly and consolidating old skills before moving on to new ones, you’ll help your dog be successful in the next season. Thanks for listening!

We hope you found these tips helpful! If you have any questions, please reach out to us at the Ladies Working Dog Group.

Dog Viruses And Vaccines: The Basics You Need To Know with Vet Sophie Bell

Did you know that viruses are common in dogs and can cause serious illnesses? Vaccines help protect your dog from these viruses, and it is important to educate yourself about dog vaccinations and the choices you can make. There are some side effects of dog vaccines that you should be aware of, but with a few simple tips, you can minimise the risk of your furry friend contracting a virus.

In this podcast summary, LWDG Featured Expert and Vet Sophie Bell breaks down the basics of canine vaccinations and helps you decide what’s best for your working dog.

What viruses are common in dogs and can cause serious illness

Canine Parvovirus (Parvo) is a highly contagious and potentially fatal virus that affects puppies and young dogs. It attacks the gastrointestinal system, causing vomiting and diarrhoea.

Canine distemper is a severe and contagious disease caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems of dogs. Symptoms include fever, runny nose, watery eyes, and vomiting.

Canine adenovirus is a virus that can cause respiratory illness in dogs. It is often associated with kennel cough. Symptoms include a dry hacking cough, fever, and runny nose.

These are just some of the viruses that can affect dogs, and it is important to keep your dog’s vaccinations relevant for your area and lifestyle choices.

“Vaccinating your dog can be one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect them from a serious illness. It is important that you talk to your vet about what vaccines are recommended for your dog, based on their age, lifestyle and risk factors.”- Sophie Bell, Featured Expert Vet.

How vaccines help protect your dog from these viruses

The viruses that canine vaccines help protect dogs from can cause severe illness and even death in some cases. Vaccines work by protecting your dog against infection with the virus. They are made from a ‘dead’ or ‘modified’ form of the virus, which means they can’t cause disease. When your dog is vaccinated, their immune system produces antibodies against the virus. These antibodies help protect your dog if they come into contact with the actual virus.

It is important to note that no vaccine is 100% effective and that there is always a risk that your dog could still contract the virus, even if they are vaccinated. However, by keeping your dog’s vaccinations up-to-date, you can reduce the risk of them becoming ill from these viruses.

“No vaccine is 100% effective, but by keeping your pet’s vaccinations up to date, you can reduce their risk of becoming ill from these viruses.” – Sophie Bell, Featured Expert Vet.

Keeping your dog’s vaccinations relevant

It is important to keep your dog’s vaccinations relevant to protect them from the risk of contracting a virus. Vaccines typically last for one year, after which time your dog will need a booster shot to keep them protected. It is important to consult your vet about when booster shots are necessary, as this will vary depending on the vaccine and the virus it protects against.

“It is important to consult your vet about when booster shots are necessary, as this will vary depending on the vaccine and the virus it protects against.” – Sophie Bell, Featured Expert Vet.

Side effects of dog vaccines

Like all medications, there is always a risk of side effects associated with canine vaccines. The most common side effect is mild fever, and some dogs may also experience temporary stiffness or reduced energy levels after getting vaccinated. More severe side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions and infections at the injection site.

“The most common side effect is mild fever, and some dogs may also experience temporary stiffness or reduced energy levels after getting vaccinated.” – Sophie Bell, Featured Expert Vet

Tips for minimising the risk of your dog contracting a virus

There are a few things you can do to help reduce your dog’s risk of contracting a virus. Some of these include:

– Keeping your dog away from other animals that may be sick

– Avoiding taking your dog to places where there is a high concentration of dogs, such as dog parks or kennels

– Washing your hands thoroughly after handling your dog and before eating or touching your face

– Disinfecting surfaces that your dog has come into contact with an appropriate pet-safe disinfectant

Thank you for joining us today as we explored the world of dog vaccinations. It is essential to be armed with information to make the best decision for your furry friend. We hope you enjoyed this summary and can find time to listen to the full episode. Remember, it is always better to be safe than sorry when your dog’s health!

You can also find more helpful tips on our website or consult with your local vet. We wish you and your dog all the best in keeping them safe and healthy!

More About Sophie…

Sophie is a business owner and Senior Vet at Animal Love in Salisbury. Having worked as a vet for 9 years, and currently specialising in Emergency and Critical Care. With a genuine passion for animals, Sophie started Animal Love to help owners to help their pets. Sophie has kindly produced this short video for the Ladies Working Dog Group to help you put together a first aid kit for your working dog. Sophie has a brand new range of online courses available from the end of next week. Get a 10% discount if you sign up beforehand. Subscribe to find out more about Sophie’s online and live courses here.

Counting Grouse With Gundogs On Spectacular UK Moorland

Grouse Counting and Gundogs

I’m sure you have all heard of grouse counting, but have you ever wondered what it is? Grouse counting is done twice a year as a survey of the grouse to help assess the health of the population and how well they are doing. This information is used to make decisions about how best to manage the grouse moorland.

Grouse counting is carried out twice a year by moorland keepers in the UK; in the spring on pairs and in the summer on broods. It helps to determine whether grouse shooting can take place on an estate during a particular year or not. LWDG Featured Expert Lucy Hall explains how the grouse counting is done, and how important these times of year are for moorland keepers.

The process of counting grouse can be quite complex, and it’s important to get an accurate count. In this blog post, we will discuss what grouse counting is, how important it is for moorland keepers, and how it is done. We will also take a look at some of the dogs that are commonly used for this task, and explore why they have been traditionally used for this job.

The History Of Grouse Shooting

Grouse shooting has been taking place in the UK for centuries. The first mention of grouse shooting dates back to the 15th century, and it was often used as a way to provide food for the aristocracy and their guests. Grouse shooting became increasingly popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, and it was used as a way to raise money for estates. Grouse shooting continued to be popular in the 20th century, and is still a popular pastime today.

There are a few ways to count grouse, and the method used will depend on the size of the estate, the number of birds that are being counted and the dogs being used. The most common method is known as the ‘walk and stalk’ method, which involves walking through the moorland and counting the grouse that are seen.

Grouse counting is an important survey for moorland keepers, as it helps to determine whether grouse shooting will take place on an estate during a particular year or not. It is also a good opportunity to assess the health of the grouse population and to look for any potential problems that may need to be addressed. Grouse counting is carried out in the spring on pairs and summer on broods.

In the spring you are counting the number of breeding pairs to gain an idea of how productive the grouse will be (or not) when the chicks hatch around May. In the summer you are counting the broods to ascertain whether or not to shoot that year come the start of the season on the 12th of August.

Grouse counting can be a challenging task, but it is essential for ensuring that the moorland remains healthy and productive.

Moorland Management

Moorlands are an important part of the UK’s landscape. They provide a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, and they play an important role in regulating the environment. The moorlands found in the UK are managed by moorland keepers, who work to ensure that they remain healthy and productive.

Moorland management is a complex and challenging task, as moorlands are constantly changing environments. Keepers therefore need to have a good understanding of the ecology of moorlands in order to be able to effectively manage them. They also need to be able to work closely with other stakeholders, such as landowners, farmers, and conservationists.

Moorland management is an essential part of preserving our landscape and protecting our wildlife including our grouse populations.  It is a challenging and important job, and it is vital that we have skilled moorland keepers to carry out this work.

The role of the moorland keeper is essential in preserving our landscape and protecting our wildlife. By managing the moorlands effectively, they play a key role in maintaining a healthy environment for all.

How Are Grouse Counted?

Moorland keepers tend to use a grid system to count grouse. On each moorland beat (area) they will plot a quadrant area to be counted, which will differ in size depending upon the size of the beat – the larger the beat the larger the area to be counted.

Counting this designated area provides keepers with an average count for that particular beat. The same areas are counted in the spring and summer counts year on year.

When using setters and pointers, the dogs will use the wind and naturally quarter the ground. Starting at the first point of the quadrant the dogs will work the wind – this could be into the wind, a cheek wind or a downwind, and will of course change each time as you count the four sides of the quadrant.

Once scented grouse, the dog will go on point. I am sure many of you will have seen the static point of a pointer or setter. The dog will typically remain in that position until given the signal/command to move by its handler.

The dog will then move into the point and flush the birds – it is the handler and keeper’s job to count the grouse that flush. They will log the number of cocks, hens and young counted.

The dogs are trained to drop on flush, so each time a bird lifts from the heather the dog will drop. This makes these dogs ideal for the job, especially with the broods, as they can slowly flush the birds thus making it easier to count the large broods.

On one count you will generally need a team of around 3-4 dogs, though this depends on the size of the count and obviously the weather – if it is hot you will want to take things slower with your dogs and therefore give them more time to rest and recuperate.

This system provides keepers with a good idea of how many grouse are present on that particular beat. It also helps them to identify any areas where there may be more or fewer grouse than usual, providing valuable data that can be used to monitor the health of grouse populations.

Grouse Territory

Grouse are territorial birds, and they will defend their territory against other grouse. They will also defend their territory against predators, such as foxes and hawks.

Moorland keepers need to be aware of the territorial nature of grouse, and they need to respect the boundaries of each grouse’s territory.  By doing this, they can help to ensure that the grouse remain healthy and productive.

If they don’t, they may end up disturbing or even displacing the grouse. This can have a negative impact on their populations and can lead to them becoming less healthy.

Dog Breeds That Work Our Moorlands

In order to carry out a good grouse count, you need a good gundog! Many people think that grouse counting is only for hunters, but this isn’t the case. Gundog enthusiasts can also get involved by helping to collect data on the grouse populations.

There are a number of dog breeds that have been specifically bred to work on our moorlands. These dogs are essential in helping the moorland keeper to carry out their work and play a massive part in a successful shoot season.

The dogs that are traditionally used for grouse counting are the setters and English pointers.  Over the years with the popularity of the HPR breeds these have been used as well, given their similarity to the pointers and setters in their work.

Other breeds such as Labradors and spaniels have and are used to. It really depends on what method/dogs have been used on that particular estate over the years.

Setters and English pointers are well suited to the task. Originally bred to hunt game birds in large areas, these breeds are naturally wide-ranging in their running, fast and full of stamina enabling them to cover the ground well and run over the tough terrain for long periods of time. Together with their strong sense of smell, they are super for locating the grouse.

Similar to the setters and pointers, the HPRs are also a good choice for grouse counting as they also have great stamina, are wide-ranging, good hunters and have a good sense of smell.

In this episode, we learned about grouse counting and how it impacts whether or not a particular estate will allow grouse shooting in a particular year. We also heard about the different dogs that are commonly used for this activity and why they’re so well-suited for it.

If you enjoyed this summary, be sure to listen to the full episode for more information on grouse counting. Thanks for listening and thank you to Lucy Hall for providing this blog and podcast!

Working With The Dog In Front Of You

Every Dog Is An Individual

Welcome to this week’s LWDG POD DOG round up. This week we chatted about the fact that every gun dog is unique and how you can learn to work with a dog in front of you. This post covers the main tips from the podcast, and the Youtube video can be found below with subtitles.

In this podcast, LWDG Founder Joanne Perrott is joined by Experienced Trainers and LWDG Group Experts – Claire Denyer, Sam Thorneycroft-Taylor, Emma Stephens, Jemma Martin and LWDG Featured Experts Abbie Reid, Nicci Kenny and Rose Setten, as they discuss how we can give our working dogs individual training that suits them.

All Dogs Are Unique

One of the things that we always talk about at LWDG is that all dogs are unique. No two dogs are the same, so we need to find a way to train each one that suits them as individuals.

This means taking the time to get to know your dog, their personality and what makes them tick.

It’s important to see them as individuals, even littermates or even the same breed. They will have different motivations and behaviours that you will need to consider.

Scale your reward choices

Dogs behave differently depending on their environment and their familiarity with it.

A dog that will work well and enjoy kibble as a treat may need a more high-value reward in a woodland it’s never been to before.

It can work well to heighten and lower the value of rewards depending on the training situation. This will help keep the dog motivated and working well.

By getting to know your dog, their personality, and what makes them tick, you can create a training programme that supports their learning.

Helping your Dog To Focus

we, as handlers, need to help our dogs focus. This means looking at the environment and making sure that we are aware of distractions that could pull the dog’s attention away from the task at hand. Being patient is key when training a gun dog. It can take time for them to learn what you are asking of them, and they may not always get it the first time.

Sometimes we need to spend time sitting in a steady position, allowing the dog to calm down before training. It’s important to be consistent with this and not to let the dog get away with things in one situation but not another. This will only serve to confuse the dog.

Think Outside The Box

When it comes to training gun dogs, there is no one definitive way to do things. What works for one dog may not work for another. Therefore, it’s important to be creative and think outside the box when training.

This means trying different methods, techniques and exercises to see what works best for your dog.

Be Prepared To Change Things and step out of your comfort zone.

“Be brave and try something you have never tried. No one has had YOUR dog before,” Rose Setten.

 

Don’t be afraid to try new things and see how they work with your dog. If something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to abandon it and try something absolutely different. And if that doesn’t work, we can try something else.

Reflect On Why Things Aren’t Going Right

It’s important to be prepared to reflect on why things may not be going right. This means taking the time to look at what we are doing as handlers and seeing where we may be going wrong.

We also need to be prepared to ask for help from others who may have more experience than we do. It’s ok not to know everything, and there is no shame in admitting that you need help.

Gun dog training can be an enriching experience, but it does take time, patience and a lot of hard work. By taking the time to get to know your dog and individually working with them, you will set them up for success and have a well-trained gun dog by your side.

Be Prepared To Fail

Although it’s not something we want to think about, we need to be prepared for failure. Sometimes things don’t go right, and our dog doesn’t understand what we ask.

In these situations, it’s important to stay calm and not get frustrated. The last thing we want to do is raise our voice or become angry with our dog.

It can be helpful to take a step back and review what we have been doing. Maybe something has changed, and we need to adjust our training programme.

Above all, be prepared to have a sense of humour and don’t take things too seriously. We’re all in this together! Train. It can take time for them to learn what you are asking of them, and they may not always get it the first time.

Make Your Training Fun

One of the best ways to keep your dog interested in their training is to make it fun. This means incorporating playtime into your programme and using praise and treats as rewards.

Dogs love to play, and by making training fun, they will be more motivated to learn. And even if the exercise fails, your dog doesn’t know what the outcome was meant to be, so take a big breath and try something else instead.

Take Into Consideration Your Dogs Age

A young dog cannot perform as an older dog does. It simply hasn’t had the same amount of experience. So, as a handler, we need to consider this when training.

We need to be prepared to spend more time training our young dogs and be willing to adapt our programme as they grow and learn.

Older dogs can sometimes make us think we know exactly what we are doing. And we do… BUT FOR THAT DOG ONLY. Another dog could be trained exactly the same way, and it does not work.

There Are No Hard And Fast Rules.

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to gun dog training. What works for one dog may not work for another. Therefore, it’s important to be creative and think outside the box when training. This means trying different methods, techniques and exercises to see what works best for your dog.

If something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to abandon it and try something absolutely different. And if that doesn’t work, we can try something else. By taking the time to get to know your dog and individually working with them, you will set them up for success and have a well-trained gun dog by your side.

Ask The Community Around You For Help

The Ladies Working Dog Group Community comprises lots of different handlers and trainers who have different training styles. But, instead of trying to convince one another that our style is right, we instead share ideas to offer many different solutions to the same problem. It’s what makes us unique.

If you struggle with a certain exercise or don’t know where to start, ask the community for help. We are more than happy to share our ideas and experiences with you.

By reading this article, we hope that you have been encouraged to take the time to get to know your dog and individually work with them. Gun dog training can be a gratifying experience, but it does take time, patience and a lot of hard work. By taking the time to get to know your dog and individually working with them, you will set them up for success and have a well-trained gun dog by your side.

Comment below and let us know how you are now going to work with the dog in front of you

The Ladies Working Dog Group Has Added Magic To Its Brand!

We have rebranded, and we could not be more excited about it!

The Internet has given birth to a new era where businesses and individuals interact and transact globally. As a result, it is straightforward for people with similar needs or views to group online and create movements, regardless of their physical location.

For businesses, the online space presents an opportunity to reach new communities. However, it also brings challenges to capturing their attention amidst the noise created by individuals who share common interests.

Our Brand History

The Ladies Working Dog Group has been doing a fantastic job for the last six years of finding women with working dogs to help and support within our community, and as much as we have loved our branding, it didn’t make it clear who we want to help. We want to help ALL ladies with working dogs, regardless of their country or activity.

We looked at our branding and decided to rebrand the website, the clothing range and our social media content. The rebrand will help us attract more members and better support all ladies with working dogs.

Creating our online content has been like baking an ‘OK’ cake every day, but knowing it could be a great cake if you could add that touch of magic.

AND WE HAVE FOUND IT!

We know that we can add that touch of magic with our new look, and we hope that you all will love this fresh contemporary feel as much as we do!

We are thrilled to tell you that we have completed this exciting stage in our journey, and the rebranding is complete! We hope you like what you see. We are so excited about this rebrand because it does show exactly who we are and what we do.

Our logo has been refreshed, but more importantly, we’ve changed the message it sends – making it crystal clear who we’re here to help.

We have rebranded the Ladies Working Dog Group to reflect better our aim of supporting ALL ladies with working dogs, regardless of their country or activity. We want all ladies to feel welcome in our group, and we hope that our new branding will help us reach more women and provide them with the support they need.

Is it obvious enough?

We wanted a logo that would be different from other dog groups and one that reflects our dedication to helping women with working dogs. So the lady and dog training symbolises the female, but also an ode to our canine friends too! We hope you’ll love our new branding as much as we do, and we look forward to your feedback.

Our website, clothing range and social media content now reflect our dedication to helping women with working dogs. Our new logo is stylish and unique and sends a clear message about who we are and what we do. We hope you love it as much as we do!

Over the next week, you will see all community spaces updated; if after March the 1st you spot an old logo anywhere, please let us know!

Why did we rebrand?

Our first ever logo and brand was fabulous and we adored it, but something about it just didn’t show the world who we were.  So recently we tweaked it, but again we just still hadn’t captured who the LWDG are.

Rebranding the LWDG was a strategic decision to achieve specific objectives. These included:

– To refresh and update our image

– To target our audience with more image appropriate content

– To create a more professional and stylish look that would appeal to our audience

– To unify our branding across all platforms (website, clothing range, social media)

We want to help as many women as possible with working dogs, and we believe that this refreshed image will help us do just that! Our refreshed image is professional and stylish, and we hope that you will love it as much as we do!

Please give some constructive feedback about the rebranding. What did you like? What didn’t you like? Did anything confuse you? Do you have any ideas about how we could improve things? We would love to hear from you! 🙂

We need your thoughts – what do YOU think of our rebrand? Let us know in the comments below!

The Loaded Choice – Where & when your dog should make its own decisions

Join LWDG Founder Jo Perrott with Experienced Trainers and LWDG Experts – Claire Denyer, Sam Thorneycroft-Taylor, Rose Setten, Emma Stephens, Abbie Reid, Nicci Kenny and Jemma Martin as they discuss how we can give our working dog ‘choices’ when training.

Introduction

As a dog owner and handler, I’m sure you have seen a lot of bad choices made by trainers, owners and dogs when it comes to obedience and behaviour, and it seems that many people have lost sight of the true meaning of the word “choice” when it comes to training their dogs.

The word ‘choice’ is both a contentious and emotive issue, as the LWDG Experts reveal in this highly engaging and informative discussion. In this episode of LWDG PODDOG, we’ll be discussing what choice means for a dog and how to train them to make the right choices. This blog post includes the extended audio and video with subtitles too.

What is ‘Choice’:

Making choices is an important part of owning a dog. It’s up to you to decide what kinds of choices you want to make for your dog. Some choices include what food to feed them, what toys to give them, and what activities to do with them. You can also choose whether to spay or neuter your dog. These are all important decisions that will help determine your dog’s quality of life.

There is confusion about what ‘choice’ means among all dog owners when discussing training our dogs.

What Choice Means In Dog Training

You must help your dog understand the choice in any situation. They have to choose appropriate behaviour for the environment and/or the activity. Dogs need our guidance to learn when their choice is the correct one, and therefore we train which choice is right in a range of situations.

For a dog to be able to choose something in the first place, it needs to understand what it should (or shouldn’t) be doing:

“I have taught my dog to ignore another dog passing us on the road. How? I have taught my dog that it sits and looks for me for a treat when it sees another dog. At that moment, it is down to the dog to choose – am I going to bark/lunge at that dog, or am I going to remember what I was taught and be rewarded?” – Emma Stevens LWDG Group Expert

Guiding Your Dog To Make The Right Choice

We need to guide our dogs in the right direction so their choices are easier to make. Unfortunately, first-time dog owners often misunderstand‘ choice’ or ‘consent’. A common practice amongst dog owners is waiting for their dog to choose with no guidance from a very young age.

We need to understand that we have to teach and educate our dogs on how to make the right choice, so initially, when teaching the foundations of obedience, the dog needs help to make the right choice every time. This is taught through consistent positive reinforcement when we see the right behaviours.

At the start of their training, our dogs do not know what we want, and this is why we guide them, and show them, and reward and praise them when they are on track. We use management, guidance, and appropriate corrections when required. There is no need for harsh handling, but there is a need for guidance from you as their educator on the right choice to make in life. Help your dog build up a behavioural pattern of repeatedly doing the right thing to get the reward.

Must-do’s when giving our dog choices:

  1. Your dog should see you as their leader/educator. But, like a toddler or teenager – they need boundaries!
  2. Being able to educate, train and then reward is so important at the start of your dog learning any new command/behaviour.
  3. Your dog has no concept of speech or language from a human perspective. Therefore, we need to train what each word we say means regarding their actions.
  4. If you like what your dog is doing, let them carry on and reward that behaviour.
  5. If you don’t like what they are doing at the training phase, you need to intervene positively, distract or stop them from doing it to lure them into doing something else and making the correct choice.
  6. Most dogs want to do something for their owner. If we show them nicely the correct ways of doing things, they will want to make the right choice.
  7. A wrong choice needs to be corrected, but this doesn’t need to be done harshly. It is unfair not to show the dog what you want and don’t want.

Why Do Dogs make The Wrong Choice?

There is a reason when a dog makes a ‘wrong’ choice. It is normally a handling error in training. The dog does not understand what we want. So we, as handlers, must teach our dogs repeatedly the correct behaviour and then reward them for it.

If we are struggling with something at the beginning of our training journey, we should narrow our dog’s choices down so it is easier for them to make the right choice. For example, using a definitive pathway when teaching recall so the clear path for the dog is to return straight to you.

When a dog does understand what we require, we must correct them if they make incorrect choices when we have asked for something they understand.

When The Handler Makes The Wrong Choice

Unhelpful tips received by a novice dog handler such as “don’t train them for their first twelve months” can be taken too literally with devastating effects both for dogs and their owners.

As trainers/handlers, we need to be careful with our terminology and explain more to our friends/clients what we mean when explaining how to change a dogs behaviour.

When Dogs Need To Make Choices In The Field

When a dog knows the obedience and foundational commands, its training will include situations where the handler cannot guide it.  For example, a dog retrieving from behind a hedge needs to use its own ability and initiative to find the mark, be it a dummy or a bird. Here we have to trust the dog to make the right choices alone. But at this stage in training, if we as handlers have done our job, making the correct choice is far easier for the dog as it has carried out similar exercises and has a large amount of experience to help it make decisions.

To Summarise

These snippets of wisdom from the LWDG experts are taken from the podcast and shared here for you; I hope they prove useful:

  • You cannot enjoy your dog without giving it boundaries. You need to be the leader/educator.
  • Set your ground rules and boundaries from the start, be consistent and fair
  • Give your dog a ‘loaded’ choice. teach them the correct choice to make
  • Take charge of the situation – there does not need to be anger. Correct the bad choice
  • By ensuring we lay the foundations of the training and the choice making in early training, the more advanced training choices are often more easily understood by the dog
  •  We need to set the rules with basic common sense. You are shirking the responsibility of looking after your dog if you don’t set rules/boundaries.
  • The rules we are setting need to be consistent from day one
  • When teaching your dog to recall – make it as easy for the dog as you can
  • Take the time to educate your dog, but reward, DO NOT bribe.

And finally, and most importantly for all of us dog owners, have fun with the dog and be a responsible owner!

In conclusion, it is essential to set rules and boundaries for your dog from the start. This will help them understand their role in the family and what is expected of them. Dogs are intelligent creatures and can learn a lot if we take the time to teach them properly. Be sure to listen to our full episode for more tips on training your dog to make the right choice!

Caring For Your Outdoor Clothing

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, then you know the importance of having quality gear. Not only does good gear make your time outdoors more enjoyable, but it can also be a lifesaver in some cases. That’s why it’s important to take care of your outdoor clothing and gear properly.

In this podcast and blog post, we discuss with Sorrel Miller, Owner of On The Peg Ltd, the best way to care for your country’s clothing. Follow these tips, and you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor gear for years to come!

Understand the needs of your outdoor country clothing

Anyone who spends any amount of time outdoors knows that having the right clothing is essential. Not only does it need to keep you warm or cool, depending on the conditions, but it also needs to be comfortable and durable.

However, with so many different types of outdoor clothing on the market, it can be difficult to know what to look for.

When choosing outdoor clothing, it is important to consider the climate you will be spending most of your time in as well as the activities you will be doing. For example, if you are an avid beater, you will need different gear than someone who likes to spend their time picking up.

Once you have a good idea of what you need, take some time to research different brands and find the one that best suits your needs. With a little effort, you can be sure to find the perfect outfit for your next outdoor adventure.

Choose the right detergent and cleaning method

There are a few things you’ll want to take into account when choosing a detergent and cleaning method for your outdoor clothing.

First, consider the type of stains you’re dealing with. If they’re mud or grass stains, you’ll need a different approach than if they’re grease or oil stains.

Second, think about the fabric of your clothing. Some fabrics are more delicate than others and will require a gentler cleaning method.

Finally, make sure you read the care labels on your clothes before you start washing them. This will give you the best chance of success.

With all that in mind, here are a few tips for getting those pesky stains out of your outdoor clothing:

-For mud or grass stains, pre-treat with a stain remover or liquid laundry detergent before washing. Be sure to use cold water, as hot water can set the stain.

-For grease or oil stains, try using a powder laundry detergent or rubbing alcohol. Again, be sure to use cold water to avoid setting the stain.

-For delicate fabrics, hand-wash in cool water using a mild detergent. Avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can damage the fabric.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your outdoor clothing looking and smelling great for years to come.

Dry your outdoor gear properly

We all know how essential it is to dry our gear properly – especially in the warmer months. Damp gear is not only uncomfortable, but it can also lead to chafing, skin irritation, and even fungal infections.

The best way to dry your gear is to hang it in the sun – or, if you’re short on time, use a tumble dryer on a low heat setting. If you’re hanging your gear up to dry, make sure that it’s not in direct sunlight, as this can cause the fabric to fade and become brittle over time.

Once your gear is dry, store it in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to use it again. By taking these simple steps, you can help to prolong the life of your gear and keep yourself comfortable during even the most strenuous activity.

Store your outdoor gear correctly when it’s not in use

Outdoor clothing can take a beating. From exposure to the elements to being packed away in a drawer or closet, your jacket, pants, and other gear can start to show signs of wear and tear. But with a little care, you can prolong the life of your clothing and keep it looking its best. Here are some tips for storing your outdoor clothing:

  • When not in use, store your outdoor clothing in a cool, dry place. This will help to prevent mildew and staining.
  • If possible, air out your clothing before storing it away. This will help to prevent musty smells.
  • If you’re going to be storing your clothing for an extended period of time, consider using mothballs or cedar chips to help repel insects.

With proper care, your outdoor clothing will last longer and continue to perform its best.

Inspect and repair your outdoor gear regularly

A little bit of regular care can go a long way when it comes to your clothing. That goes for your everyday clothes, as well as any gear you might use for work, sports, or other activities. Inspect your clothing regularly for signs of wear and tear, and repair any damage as soon as possible. A small hole or a loosened seam can quickly become a bigger problem if it’s not addressed right away. With a little bit of care, your clothes will last longer and serve you better. So don’t wait until something needs major repairs – take care of your clothing, and it will take care of you.

Use a waterproofing treatment to keep your outdoor gear in good condition

Most of us have experienced the disappointment of outdoor clothing that just doesn’t stand up to the elements. Waterproof jackets that let in water, pants that soak through at the first sign of rain – it can be frustrating, to say the least.

But there is a way to keep your outdoor clothing in good condition, no matter what the weather throws at you. By using a waterproofing treatment, you can protect your clothes from water, dirt, and stains. There are a number of different products on the market, so it’s important to choose one that is right for the type of fabric you’re working with.

Whether you’re dealing with cotton, wool, or synthetic fibers, there’s a waterproofing treatment that will help you keep your clothes looking good for years to come. So don’t let the bad weather get you down – be prepared with a little waterproofing treatment, and you’ll be ready for anything.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your outdoor clothing in good condition for years to come. With a little bit of care, you’ll be able to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about your gear.

So don’t wait – get started today, and see the difference that proper care can make. Thanks for listening and reading!

How To Have Incredible Fun Teaching Your Gundog

Guest Blog Post by LWDG Group Expert Samantha Thorneycroft- Taylor

When we purchase, or rescue, a working gundog breed we have an obligation to train them to be the best that they can be at whatever their role is going to be, and the best way to do that is to make training fun.

Whether it’s a family pet and companion, a service dog, a gun dog, a livestock dog, or a security dog it’s true, and it’s probably the single thing that I say the most to all of my clients.

We all know that dogs aren’t born trained, though there are often genetic and hereditary traits that can be found within a specific breed. Yet, somehow, almost everyone ends up experiencing frustration with their dog’s training at some point during the dog’s life.

Frustration that the puppy just chewed yet another slipper, frustration that the gundog-bred dog has gone self-employed in a forest and won’t recall, frustration that the livestock dog just caught and killed a neighbour’s chicken, the list of possible frustrations is endless…

Your Dogs Boundaries

Dogs need to be given clear boundaries from the start of your ownership, not by harsh methods or punishing corrections, but they do need to be taught the difference between right and wrong, and they need to be mentally stimulated and given a ‘job’ no matter how small or large that ‘job’ may be.

I think that many of us will have, at some point during our dog’s life, had that feeling of “Oh god, I need to take the dog out for a walk” and it’s at this point, when we are no longer enjoying our dog’s companionship, that we need to take the step to be proactive and to inject the fun and enthusiasm back into our combined lives.

It’s well known that dogs experience many different stages whilst growing from puppyhood, through adolescence and eventually maturing into adult life. We need to be there to support them, to encourage them, to nurture them, and also to keep them on the straight and narrow throughout all the different stages of development they go through.

Small Segments Of Training Can Keep Things Fun

Around 20-25 minutes is all you need to dedicate to a single training session and even this can be broken down into much smaller segments – if you take a proper look at your daily routine you’ll soon realise that you had a couple of minutes whilst the kettle boiled, or 15 minutes whilst dinner was in the oven, or 10 minutes before you were due to leave for work.

These are prime opportunities to do something, anything, with your dog to get those cogs ticking. You could work on your heel position in the kitchen or a short sit/stay or a send to bed for example. You could hide something in the garden and go hunt for it together, you could practice your recall, or do some retrieving – none of these examples takes more than just a few short minutes

It’s far more beneficial to your dogs health and well-being to have small bursts of mental stimulation with dedicated time and interaction from you, as their owner and caregiver, than it is for them to run for hours out of control and doing what they please!

 

So if you’re thinking “I don’t have enough time to both train and walk my dog” then think again – either go training instead or mix the two up and go for a training walk.

As humans, it’s easy to get ‘bogged down’ on one thing that is causing us difficulty and we either stick at it in the same way, over and over not making progress, or we avoid the issue altogether and hope the problem goes away. Neither of these routes is the answer.

If, for example, your delivery has gone to pot on retrieves then consider forgetting steadiness for a while and having some fun.

Play with your dog, run around with your dog, throw some unsteady retrieves and really encourage your dog to come right back to you – have them chase you with the item in their mouth if that is what it takes to get your dog back.

If you’re at loggerheads when it comes to loose lead walking and are fed up with the continual pull, stop, reset, pull, stop, reset ‘cycle’, INJECT some ENTHUSIASM! Take it up a pace, keep changing direction, stop, start, run, walk, left, right – make it fun, different, and exciting!

Take the pressure off yourselves; act like a child, forget the daily struggles, leave work at work, and go have fun with your dog! I can guarantee that you’ll both be far happier, and far more contented afterwards!

Samantha Thorneycroft-Taylor is an LWDG Group Expert, experienced dog trainer and Owner of Languedoc Gundogs

6 Steps To Teaching A Dog To Successfully Retrieve

Join LWDG Founder Jo Perrott with Trainer and Featured Expert Michelle Oseman as they discuss training a dog to retrieve using 6 simple steps, using the food bowl game.

This episode was initially filmed as part of an interview Jo was writing for the Gundog Journal with Trainer Michelle Oseman of Mapowders Dog Training  

As Jo and Michelle chatted about training dogs in general, Michelle shared this content and we thought it was too good not to share with you. You can listen to the podcast here.

Michelle also provided the following information which she uses in her training lessons as takeaway documents. We have included these here to support the video content.

Introduction To Retrieving

What is a retrieve made up of?

1 STEADINESS – Can your dog sit beside you whilst a bird is flushed and shot or a dummy is thrown or a ball rolled in front of him? Can your dog stay sat where you leave him whilst you walk out to place a retrieve or fill a food bowl? Does your dog think every retrieve is his???

2 SEND AWAY – Can your dog run out in a straight line from your side or, if stopped out in the field, can it take direction to a retrieve?

3 PICK UP – Can your dog pick up and hold lots of different things such as fur, feathers, canvas dummy, cuddly toy etc.

4 RECALL/RETURN – Does your dog recall/return immediately and can run holding something whilst running?

5 DELIVERY – Can your dog recall to sit in front of you without smashing into you or doing a million circles around you? Can your dog sit in front of you whilst holding an object?

6 PRESENT – Can your dog sit in front of you holding an item and lift his head for you to take it?

All of these elements make up a simple retrieve. The best way to train them is as standalone parts of the retrieve and not try to chain them altogether until they are 100% on their own. No point having a dog that runs in on retrieves or can pick a retrieve but then does a victory parade around the field before coming back to you or a dog that picks a runner in the shooting field but drops it at your feet on delivery!!

Over the next few weeks look at each of these elements and how best to train them as single tasks. Some dogs will find certain elements easier than other parts but the trick is to focus on your weak areas rather than keep sending your dog for retrieves that aren’t completely perfect. Remember that the dog will only practice the behaviours you allow!

A lot of these behaviours have already been introduced in your training to date such as using our Sit and Step off exercise for steadiness, food bowl retrieves for send away and recall but we will revisit them as they now need to be incorporated into a very exciting thing for dogs called Retrieving!

Using The Food Bowl Game To Retrieve

Tips for success

•Use a natural straight line such as a fence, track or hedge
•Make sure the distance is appropriate for the age of the dog
•Dog MUST have sit and stay secure

Exercise

1. On lead, take dog from point A to point B at heel

2. Sit dog. Step off, place tasty food into the bowl and return to the dog (heel position)

3. Tell the dog to ‘Leave’ the bowl, turn across the dog (blocking the food bowl) and heel away to return to point A

4. About turn and sit the dog at heel facing the food bowl

5. Remove lead and, with your arm stretched out pointing to the bowl, send the dog with your “Go Back!” or “Get Out!” command

6. Once the dog has eaten, recall to sit in front and reward

 

  • Extend the distance from A to B
  • Use heel work exercises such as ‘quick sit’ and  ‘sit and step off’ while doing your heel work to and from the bowl
  • Leave the dog in a sit, walk out to place food in bowl and return to dog. This aids steadiness
  • Aim for off-lead heel work

Photo: Michelle Oseman

Michelle Oseman’s Bio:

After a highly successful corporate career, Michelle has been a companion and gundog training professional for over ten years and has recently relocated to just outside Bude in North Cornwall.

She is an experienced Gundog handler, having gained Field Trial and Working test awards with her own Springer Spaniels and Working Cocker Spaniels. She has always worked her dogs in the shooting field, running up to 8 dogs a day. Michelle also writes regular articles for the Gundog Journal and Field Sports Magazines.

Michelle’s passion for training, competing and working dogs led her to her training career. She is a positive, rewards-based, behavioural trainer who focuses her efforts on ensuring the handlers learn before the dog. Her friendly and methodical approach has been proven across many breeds and clients as shown in the testimonials she has received.

Keeping Working Dogs Out Of Rescue Centres

Dogs are wonderful companions, but they can be a lot of work too. One of the most important things you can do as a dog owner is to teach your dog obedience. This will help keep them safe and make sure that they don’t end up in a rescue centre.

In this podcast and blog post, we will discuss what’s happening at the Coal Face by talking to Megan from Spaniel Aid, we talk about why rescue centres are currently overwhelmed by the number of dogs being put up for rehoming, and why it is so important to teach your dog proper behaviour.

The number of dogs ending up in rescue centres is on the rise

According to the latest figures from the RSPCA and Dogs Trust, the number of dogs ending up in rescue centres is on the rise.

There are a number of reasons for this increase, including life returning to normal after Covid, but one of the main contributory factors is Puppy farming. Puppy farms are commercial breeding establishments that prioritise profit over animal welfare. As a result, puppies bred on these farms are often sick and have behavioural problems. What’s more, many of these puppies are sold through unscrupulous dealers who do not hesitate to lie about their origin or health. As a result, more and more people are finding themselves unable to care for their new puppy and are forced to give them up to a rescue centre.

Of course, it’s not just puppy farmers who are responsible for the increasing number of dogs in rescue centres. Backyard breeders also play a role, as do people who buy a dog on a whim without doing any research into whether or not they can provide the necessary care and attention.

However, by far the biggest contributors to this problem are commercial breeders who place profit above animal welfare.

How can you make sure you are not buying a puppy from an unscrupulouus commercial breeder?

Do your research before you buy a puppy and visit the premises where the puppies are bred and reared. This will give you a good idea of the conditions that the puppies have been raised in and whether or not they have been socialised properly.

It is also important to make sure that you see the puppy with its mother before you buy it. This will give you an indication of the health of the puppy and whether or not it has been well cared for.

If you are thinking of buying a pedigree puppy, make sure that you go to a reputable breeder who can show you evidence of good health and temperament in the parents and grandparents of the puppy.

Never buy a puppy from a pet shop, as there is no way of knowing where the puppy has come from or what conditions it has been raised in.

Remember, a responsible breeder will be more interested in finding good homes for their puppies than making a quick profit, so they are not likely to sell their puppies through a pet shop.

Dogs are often put up for rehoming because they haven’t been taught obedience

When you get a new puppy, it is important to start training them straight away. This will help them to understand what is expected of them and will set the foundation for a good relationship between you and your dog.

There are a number of different ways to train your dog, but the most important thing is to be consistent. Dogs learn best through positive reinforcement, so make sure you praise your dog when they do something right.

It is also important to be patient and never punish your dog for making a mistake. This will only serve to confuse them and make them fear you.

If you are having difficulty training your dog yourself, there are a number of professional trainers who can help you. And of course, we are here to help too.

The most important thing to remember is that dogs need to be trained in order to be well-behaved. A lack of obedience training is one of the main reasons why dogs are put up for rehoming.

Teaching your dog obedience is one of the most important things you can do as a dog owner

As a dog owner, one of the most important things you can do is to teach your dog obedience. A well-behaved dog is a joy to have around, and it is also much safer for both your dog and others. Obedience training can be started at any age, but it is best to start when your dog is young. There are many different obedience commands that you can teach your dog, but the most important ones are the sit, stay, come, and down commands. With patience and consistency, you can teach your dog to obey these commands, and you will soon have a well-behaved furry friend.

It is important to remember that dogs need to be trained in order to be well-behaved. A lack of obedience training is one of the main reasons why dogs are put up for rehoming. If you need help training your dog check out our membership and courses.

Spaniel Aid can be contacted through their website here

Positive -Only V PunitiveTraining: What happened to the middle ground?

It can be confusing trying to decide which dog training approach is best for you and your pet gundog. Do you go with the harsh punishment-based system of olden times or the positive reinforcement-only method? The options are both extreme, and it can be tough to decide which is right for you, if either. In this double-episode podcast and blog post, we’ll discuss the two different approaches in more detail, and discuss the reality of a far more sensible middle ground so that you can make an informed decision about what’s best for your dog!

Episode Part 1

Episode Part 2

Traditional Training Methods

Gundog training methods have been handed down through generations of dog trainers. These methods are based on the principle of establishing communication between the handler and the dog and using this communication to command the dog. In recent years, however, there has been a growing movement away from traditional methods of training gun dogs. Some of the methods can be harsh, and cruel, using fear to train the dog.

Positive-Only Dog Training

Positive-only dog training is a type of dog training that focuses solely on reinforcing desired behaviours. This means that instead of using punishment or any type of correction, positive reinforcement is used to teach dogs the behaviours that we want them to learn. Some of the most common forms of positive reinforcement include treats, praise, and petting.

Although it may take a little longer to see results with positive-only dog training, it is seen as a much more humane and effective way to train your dog. However, the length it can take for a dog to understand what is being asked can lead to frustration for both dog and owner.

The Middle Ground

So, what’s the middle ground? Well, it’s a training approach that takes the best from both traditional and positive-only dog training methods. This means that you can use both positive reinforcement and constructive corrections to train your dog.

However, the focus should always be on reinforcing desired behaviours rather than ever punishing undesired behaviours. Punishment is never used, instead constructive correction where you help the dog to learn replaces it.

This type of training is often seen as the most effective way to train a gun dog, as it takes into account the strengths and weaknesses of both traditional and positive-only approaches.

Work With The Dog In Front Of You

When it comes to dog training, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The best way to train your dog will depend on a number of factors, including your dog’s personality, age, and the behaviours you want to reinforce. We constantly teach our students to ‘work with the dog in front of them and to use different styles and methods of training to support the dog learning. The importance of finding a sensible middle ground when training your gun dog can’t be overstated.

Individual Learning Plan

Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they learn best when they are challenged in a way that suits their specific needs. That’s why it’s important to create an individual learning program when training your dog.

By taking into account your dog’s unique personality, abilities, and interests, you can tailor the learning process to their individual needs. As a result, they will be more engaged in the process and more likely to retain the information.

In addition, by providing a stimulating and personalised learning experience, you can help your dog reach their full potential. So if you’re looking to get the most out of your furry friend, remember to create an individual learning program that is tailored specifically for them.

5 Things To Know Before Gundog Training

Training your gundog can be a great experience, but it is important to know what you are getting into. Here are five things you need to know before gundog training.

As you are probably aware, gundogs can be an extremely obedient and terrific addition to the family. However, your gundog will need to be trained, and you need to have thought about a few areas and make some important decisions before starting out.

Know As Much As You Can About The Breed Of Your Dog

 

A gundog is a hunting dog that has been bred over generations to find, flush and retrieve birds or animals. Gundogs are typically divided up into three categories: gun dogs (pointer), spaniels and retrievers.

You need to know which category your gundog falls into before you start training. There are also a whole range of additional working dogs that fall into other breed categories but for whom you will need to learn as much as you can too.

Gun dogs (pointer) typically point and hold/lock up the animal, spaniels flush out and retrieve animals, and retrievers fetch back birds or animals to you. You’ll want to train your dog not only how to work with people but also with the natural instincts they were born with.

Many gundog/working breeds have high amounts of energy, so it’s important to train your gundog properly from the beginning. You may never intend to use your dog for hunting, but you still need to provide the stimulus it requires to have a happy and healthy life.

The breed of the gundog you own will determine what type of training they need and how much work is needed for them to become a well-rounded gundog.

Puppy Training

Gundogs are intelligent breeds that can be stubborn at times, so the key is to keep puppy training fun and engaging. This means setting up “games” for your gundog pup where he or she has a chance to learn new things, but also make some good decisions on their own as well. Your gundog can learn more than 20 commands, so initially teach them the basic foundations and then move on to additional cues as you both progress.

Training Your Gundog Breed

A gundogs intelligence makes it very easy for them to pick up on new things but only if the motivation is there!

Gundogs are not the right choice for everyone in terms of training needs. If you are not able to spend a lot of time with your gundog, then they may become bored or frustrated which can lead them to be disobedient.

They enjoy hunting in open spaces, however, in spaces like this, you will lose their focus when they are young. Start your training in boring environments such as inside the house, and then, when you feel they are ready, opt for outside locations where they will have plenty of room to roam and explore with their nose!

Keep in mind, gundogs can be very sensitive animals so any harsh or forceful training methods may make them timid or worse afraid of you which is exactly what you do not want when it comes down to gundog training! If this happens then there’s no way getting around it; retraining will need to happen later on once they’ve matured more and you have regained their trust.

Make gundog training something that is fun for both of you. This means making sure they are getting plenty of exercise, mental stimulation and positive reinforcement! Gundog breeds need time to think things through especially if they feel pressured into doing something before their ready. If this happens, there’s a good chance that he will start ignoring anything you say which can lead them to be naughty.

The age and health of your gundog matter when training

 

Gundogs have a very high energy level, meaning they can get into trouble if not given enough exercise throughout the day – this being said it’s important for gundog owners to ensure their dog’s health and age is considered in order for them to remain healthy and happy!

It’s important for gundog owners to be aware of the breed and health-related issues that affect gundogs. For example, gundogs can suffer from a range of joint problems such as osteoarthritis which is very painful and uncomfortable – this means it’s essential owners pay close attention to how much exercise they’re giving their dog in order not to overstress these joints!

Age Considerations

As well as the health of gundogs, gundog owners must be aware of their dog’s age and how this will affect them when training new behaviours – no matter your dog’s breed or size you should not start any kind of formal gundog training until they are both mentally and physically ready, although it is advisable to introduce early socialisation skills and general obedience commands from a puppy.

Younger dogs can easily become overwhelmed by all kinds of stimuli which could lead to anxiety issues later on in life but this is not to say gundog owners should wait until their dog reaches old age before training them.

Owners need to be aware of the physical and mental capabilities that each breed has. It’s important gundogs are given enough exercise on a daily basis which can also help with reducing stress levels in dogs as well!

Gundogs only live for around 12 years (please note this depends on your gundog’s size and breed) so make sure you’re doing everything possible for its health now rather than trying to sort out any issues after the damage has already been done!

Be consistent with what you teach your gundog

 

The most important characteristic that a gundog owner must have is consistency. This means not only being consistent in your training methods, but also from one day to the next and from one person to another. You need to be absolutely consistent with how to train a dog.

If dogs are even slightly unsure of what is expected of them, there’s very little chance of success when it comes to gundog training which requires precision, accuracy and timing on the part of both the handler as well as the dog.

However, gundog training must also be consistent in terms of day-to-day expectations from the trainer. This means not only ensuring that you are always on train your gundog but it is important for you to stick with a schedule so you can plan and track your dogs’ development.

Consistency lays down clear guidelines for dogs to follow, so gundog training becomes much more efficient and continuity in understanding is important. If we understand one thing and then switch to another, we can’t remember what we learned before and it’s harder to make any progress.

Staying with the same ideas consistently also enables the gundog to notice patterns and see more quickly what we are requiring from them. It is important to maintain consistency if you want to make sure that your gundog doesn’t forget what they’ve learned.

Keep training sessions short

 

Most people are unaware that gundog training is not actually about the length of time spent in a session. It’s about what you do during that time. Training sessions should be short, with an emphasis on rest and recovery periods so that the dog has time to process what it has learnt.

The most important thing is to make sure your dogs are not overworked and shut down mentally. A dog can remain physically active for many hours, but can only focus and mentally concentrate for far shorter lengths of time.

Training should be done in several short sessions throughout the week rather than all at once or on one day per week. This helps keep dogs interested and less bored because their brains are stimulated more often. Starting basic obedience training early with young gundogs can help reduce behaviour problems as adults because their natural instincts are strong and you need a relationship that makes you more interesting than the environment you are in.

The training sessions should be broken up with plenty of steadiness, training exercises and rest periods. The gundog training sessions should be about having fun and keeping the dog interested. If you find yourself doing a lot of talking to your gundogs, then it is going on too long.

Use positive reinforcement techniques instead of punishment for better results

 

Another important part of gundog training is teaching your dog to be obedient and independent. This means that they need to know how you want them to behave without having an actual command, as well as knowing what their boundaries are so they don’t run off or become a nuisance when out in exciting environments.

Start off and continue with positive reinforcement-based training rather than using fear-based techniques like leash jerks or scruff shakes as this helps avoid these problems from occurring!

Don’t make your dog work against his nature. In most training exercises, a layering-up approach is beneficial. Begin by gradually increasing changes like the distance between you and your dog during sits and stays. Start by keeping the distances short, avoid distractions, and offer strong praise for coming back to you.

Many gundogs love treats when working with their owner, which is why using these types of rewards during gundog training works well at keeping your dog focused on you. Once your gundog has mastered a command, you can begin phasing out food rewards and working on praise-only training methods if you wish.

Gundog training is a rewarding process, and gundogs are excellent working dogs in all situations. Gundog training is a lot like parenting: if you don’t want your gundog to engage in negative behaviours, you need to be sure they get plenty of positive attention. Positive reinforcements such as treats and praise for doing good things speed up both learning time and outcome success.

Gundog training is an important part of gundog life. If you want to train your gundogs efficiently, it’s vital that you stay consistent in terms of what they need and when they need it.

We hope these 5 things have helped you to improve your knowledge of gundog training and what you need to do.

Comment below which section has been the most helpful to you.

The Science Behind How to Correct Your Dog Constructively

When it comes to dog training, a lot of people are still under the impression that you have to be harsh with your dog in order to get them to listen. This could not be further from the truth! In fact, using harsh methods when training your dog can actually have negative consequences in the long run. In this podcast and blog post, we will discuss the science behind how to correct your dog constructively and without using force or fear. We will also provide some tips on how you can implement these methods into your own training routine.

Podcast Episode:

What is the science behind how to correct your dog constructively, without using force or fear?

The science behind dog training is based on the principle of operant conditioning. This means that dogs learn by associating certain behaviours with positive or negative consequences. Dogs are studied more now than they ever have been and we are learning more and more about how they think, feel, and learn. This gives us a leg up when it comes to training them effectively. Dogs want to please their owners, but they need to be taught how. A dog cannot read your mind, so you need to be clear, consistent, and patient when teaching them what you expect from them.

Science has shown that the most effective way to train a dog is through positive reinforcement. This means rewarding desired behaviours with treats, praise, or other forms of positive reinforcement. Dogs are motivated by what makes them feel good, so this is an effective way to encourage them to repeat desired behaviours. Conversely, punishment is not as effective in shaping behaviour, and can even have negative side effects such as fear and aggression. Therefore, it is important to use positive reinforcement when training dogs, in order to get the best results.

There are some basic principles of animal learning that can help you understand how you are currently training your dog. These principles include positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, punishment, and extinction.

Basic Principles

First, let’s start with positive reinforcement. This is when you give your dog a treat or some other form of reward after they perform the desired behaviour. For example, if you want your dog to sit down, you would give them a treat after they sit. The key here is to make sure that the treat is given as soon as the behaviour is performed so that the dog associates the two.

Next is negative reinforcement. This is when you remove something unpleasant after the dog performs the desired behaviour. For example, if your dog doesn’t like being scolded, then you would stop scolding them after they perform the desired behaviour. The key here is also to be consistent so that the dog associates the desired behaviour with the removal of the unpleasant stimulus.

Punishment is when you do something unpleasant to your dog after they perform an undesired behaviour. For example, if your dog jumps on you, you could scold them or spray them with water. The key here is to make sure that the punishment is immediate so that the dog associates the undesired behaviour with the punishment.

Extinction is when you stop giving your dog a treat or reward after they perform the desired behaviour. For example, if you’ve been rewarding your dog for sitting down, but now you want them to sit without being rewarded, you would simply stop giving them the treat after they sit.

These are just a few of the basic principles of animal learning that can help you understand your current training choices.

Constructive Correction

One common misconception about gundog training is that it always involves punishment. While punishment can be effective (although unnecessary) in some cases, it is often more helpful to use positive reinforcement or correction.

Positive reinforcement rewards a dog for good behaviour, while negative reinforcement punishes a dog for bad behaviour. In contrast, constructive correction simply redirects a dog’s behaviour in a constructive way. For example, if a dog jumps on a person, the owner might say “off” and then provide him with a treat when he gets down. This type of correction is more likely to result in long-term changes in behaviour than punishment.

How can you implement constructive correction into your own training routine?

One way to implement constructive correction into your own training routine is to be clear and consistent with your commands. Make sure that you are always rewarding your dog for good behaviour, and use positive reinforcement whenever possible. If your dog exhibits undesirable behaviour, try to correct them in a constructive way, such as saying “off” if they jump up, and then providing a treat when they get down. With consistency and patience, you can successfully train your dog using constructive correction.

The podcast above includes over an hour of detailed information and guidance for you to use with your dog. Has this podcast helped you understand further how to correct constructively?

If you enjoyed this , you may also like Positive-Only V PunitiveTraining: What happened to the middle ground?

Gundog Behavior: Gun Shy or Gun Nervous?

There is a big difference between a gundog that is gun shy and one that is gun nervous. Gun shyness is usually the result of poor training, while gun nervousness is a genetic trait. If you are having trouble determining which category your gundog falls into, keep reading for more information.

A gun-shy dog is one that has been poorly trained and has had a bad experience with guns. This can happen if the dog was not properly introduced to guns, or if they were punished for being afraid of them. Gun shyness is not a genetic trait, and it is something that can be fixed with proper training.

A gun nervous dog is one that has a genetic trait that makes them afraid of guns. This is not something that can be fixed easily with training, and it is important to remember that these dogs should never be forced to work with guns. If you have a gun-nervous dog, the best thing you can do is maybe find another activity for them to enjoy.

Hopefully, this podcast and article have helped you better understand the difference between gun shyness and gun nervousness. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us. Thanks for reading!

How To Happily Sort Out Mud Covered Gundogs

We all love our four-legged friends,  but come to the rain and mud of autumn and winter and even the most loved of dogs is kindly asked to not cuddle up with us when adorned with mud. We asked our Ladies Working Dog Group members for their top tips for dealing with mud-covered gundogs.

As they joyously bound through puddles and wallow in mud, we can’t help but squirm over the thought of how our cars and homes are going to cope…Having everything ready for your soggy companion’s return will make all the difference.

Washing Your Mud Covered Gundog Off

Dogs hate the feeling of mud after it has dried in their paws, in their nooks and crannies, or deep within their hair. It also leaves our homes coated as your dog sprinkles dirt-dust wherever they go.

It’s always a good idea to wash the mud off your dog before they get into their car or house for their comfort and your sanity. Coldwater can be used, but rinsing and bathing are much easier when the water is warm, plus your pet will thank you for giving them a warm rinse rather than an ice-cold spray with a hose.

You can install a hot water tap outside. This will make it easier for you and the dogs. We had ours installed last year for our mucky mud-loving spaniels, and it makes washing them down far more comfortable both for me and the dogs.

This idea was seconded by member Lucinda Sewell who had one installed too, Lucinda gives her dogs a complete shampoo outdoors after a day of mud-magnetising antics, followed by a thorough rub down with nice fresh and warm towels to dry them off preventing chills, but also to get rid of any potentially irritating remnants of shampoo or dirt. She mentioned, “my dogs are lifelong friends, so why treat them any different to how I would my children or us adults?”

If the idea of installing a hot water tap outdoors doesn’t quite sit with you or isn’t achievable where you live, there’s also the option of a portable hot water shower, such as the Mud Daddy® 5 Litre Portable Washing Device at £45.00. The Mud Daddy stays warm for up to two and half hours. Fill it up with water before you leave, put it in your car’s boot, and it will be warm when you are ready to use it.

LWDG member, Kate Kidner has a great tip too, “I have a trusty old portable pressure washer from Nomad, though I am unsure they make them anymore, the process is still the same and can be used for most portable washing systems. I fill it with hot water in the morning, and the water is still warm when I come to wash my dogs off. I then rub them down with a nice clean towel and wrap them up in one of their rugs. When we arrive home, the dogs are all clean, dry and happy.”

Another LWDG member, Demelza Barker added “I wrap a drying coat around my Mud Daddy (or other portable warm water showers) to insulate it, helping the water stay warm for so much longer, ” this is a great way to warm up your drying coat or dog rug, I think we can all testify to the comforts and happiness a warm, fresh pair of pyjamas brings.

If you are out and about, without access to warm water, then at the very least make sure to wash their paws off and the underneath of their bellies before you begin drying. Always keep a full water bottle in the boot of the car in the event of you being caught short. LWDG member, Fiona Macleod uses a very clever hack for this, “ we get our water-loving Spaniels into the pond at the end of a day’s shooting using tennis balls for bribery, then our Ruff ‘n Tumble coats are always used on the way home, making for two warm, toasty and completely shattered Spaniels.”

Towels At The Ready!

Wet dogs like to shake, and from personal experience, a soggy spaniel shaking off droplets of mud, sending them flying onto the cream interior of your Freelander is enough to make you want to cry. If you have absorbent towels on hand, you’ll be grateful.

A good drying robe or an ordinary, old bath towel from home can both be used to dry your dog effectively. Keeping a small kit bag in the back of your car containing all of the supplies needed to quickly and efficiently clean and dry your dog off is incredibly handy at all times of the year as they can be used after a beach day too.

If you’re travelling in a car, make sure to wring out towels so that the muddy water does not spread throughout your vehicle’s interior. Make sure you have a waterproof dry bag or similar to put the wet towels in and bring them into your house so they may be washed.

Drying Coats:

Dog drying coats come in many shapes, sizes, colours and even patterns, you’re almost spoilt for choice. From full-body styles that cover the major organs and muscles, to blanket style coats that simply help you dry your muddy dog off. When asked what drying coats the LWDG ladies recommended, lots of brands were mentioned though the drying coat brands which received the most recommendations and positive reviews from happy customers included Ruff ‘n Tumble, Equafleece, Lansdown, Siccaro and Hotterdog.

Because many breeds love to swim, having multiple coats allows you to dry one while your other pets are swimming. Drying coats may perform various tasks in addition to making your pets appear adorable as a button, therefore you might want to have more than one. Many members use a drying coat for the trip home in the car or after getting out of the shower to keep them warm and comfortable while they dried off.

Grooming

Once your dog is clean, it’s always a good idea to give them a complete grooming to check there aren’t any twigs, thorns, or irritating burrs caught in their coat. It’s also an opportunity for you to make sure they don’t have any minor injuries that you may not have noticed while they were covered with mud.

If you know your dog enjoys swimming, it’s also a great time to check their ears for any ear infections that can be caused by water trapped inside the ear canal. Look out for any signs of redness, irritation, or an unpleasant smell inside the ear.

If your dog is healthy and happy, there’s unlikely to be anything seriously wrong with him – but if you notice anything unusual once he is clean, or you have any concerns at all about his health always seek advice from your vet immediately.

We have a fantastic masterclass on grooming the working dog  by Featured Expert Julie Palmer

Avoiding the mud

 

Another option, for those who prefer to keep mud as far away as possible, is a waterproof dog rug. This is not to be confused with a drying coat. Brands like Weatherbeeta have developed a range of high-quality, breathable and waterproof dog coats which are ideal for donning pre-walk or mud exposure. These are also a great option for more sensitive breeds like whippets, lurchers or greyhounds during the colder months.

Be prepared for emergencies

First aid bag on a table

 

Returning to the topic of a kit bag for a moment, keeping an easily accessible bag in your car or even a convenient bag or box in the utility room is a fantastic idea that will help you prepare for any disaster.

A towel, some dog-friendly wet wipes, an antibacterial cream, bandage, scissors, tape, and surgical gloves are all things you’ll want to have on hand. Extra poop bags, another leash, a few of their favourite snacks, a flashlight and a folding washbowl are also recommended.

If your dog is on any specific medication, it is always wise to keep a small amount of this in the bag just in case of emergencies, and though you’ll likely have numbers stored on your phone, writing down your vet’s contact number or that of an emergency vet is advisable.

Of course, we don’t ever want any of these situations to surprise us, but being prepared will help you best deal with it, ensuring you can give the best possible care and attention to your canine companion.

Here’s to the next few months of battling with mucky, wet, and bitter weather. With your preferred jacket and boots on, going out to explore our lovely region with your special four-legged companion should not be deterred by any of the glorious mud you are going to get stuck in.

Ready? Let’s go!

How Gundogs Have Evolved From Hunting Companions to Multi-Purpose Pets

Gundogs have been around for centuries, and their purpose has always been to help hunters. Whether it was retrieving downed birds, tracking game through the forest, or holding point until the hunter could get to them, gundogs have always had a job to do. But over time, things have changed. Gundogs are now often kept as pets, and they can participate in a range of different activities beyond just hunting.

In this podcast and blog post, we talk to LWDG Featured Expert Michelle Oseman about the evolution of the multi-use dog. We take a look at how gundogs have evolved from simple hunting companions into multi-purpose pets that can be involved in a variety of hobbies and activities!

Agility

One of the most popular activities for gundogs these days is agility. This dog sport requires athleticism, speed, and precision as the dog navigates an obstacle course. Agility is a great way to burn off energy and keep the dog exercised, as well as provide a challenge that can keep the dog engaged and mentally stimulated.

Scentwork

Another popular activity for gundogs is scent work. This is a sport that utilizes the dog’s natural ability to sniff out things, and it can be done either competitively or just for fun.

In scent work, the dog is tasked with finding a specific scent and indicating its location to the handler. This can be done with any type of scents, such as food, drugs, or even human scent. Scent work is a great way to bond with your dog while also teaching them focus and concentration.

Mantrailling

Mantrailling is a term used when the dog is employed to search out and indicate the location of missing or wanted persons.

Mantrailling is a specific type of scent work where the dog is tasked with finding a human scent and indicating its location to the handler. This can be done for law enforcement purposes, or simply as a way to have fun with your gundog.

Canicross

And finally, canicross is a sport that has gained popularity in recent years. It involves dogs and humans running together, and it’s a great way to bond with your furry friend while getting some exercise!

So if you’re thinking about getting a gundog, don’t limit yourself to just hunting. There is a whole world of activities out there that you and your dog can enjoy together!

Have you ever tried any of these activities with your gundog? Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to check out our podcast for more great information on gundogs

The Working Dog Training Age Race

Gundogs are the best, especially as pups.  They are so cute and fluffy, and they love to play fetch. It’s so much fun to take them out on walks and watch them explore the world around them.

But as soon as these pups reach a certain age, their owners put unneeded pressure on themselves to train them quickly and get them ready for hunting season. This can lead to problems down the road, both for the pup and the owner.

In this podcast and blog post, we will discuss why it is important to take your time when training gundog pups, and how doing so will benefit both you and your pup/young dog in the long run!

Pressure On Dogs Owners

Pets are a big responsibility, and there’s a lot of pressure to do everything right by them. This is especially true when it comes to dogs, who we tend to think of as members of the family. We want them to be obedient and well-behaved, and we often put pressure on ourselves to train them quickly.

In contrast, we don’t usually feel the same pressure when it comes to training a horse. Horses are usually seen as taking far longer to train, and we tend to give ourselves more time to train them. This is because horses require a lot of physical conditioning and training before they can be used for work.

In contrast, dogs are generally much easier to train and don’t require as much time or effort. As a result, we often put more pressure on ourselves to train them quickly. However, it’s important to remember that both dogs and horses are intelligent creatures that deserve our patience and respect.

Training either one quickly is not always the best option. instead, focus on doing what’s best for your pet, and take the time to form a bond built on trust and mutual respect.

Comparing Dogs Training Using Their Age

In life, it’s easy to compare our journey with others. We compare our age, the car we drive, and how much money we make. It’s human nature. But when it comes to our gundog’s development, comparing our journey with others can be detrimental. Instead of comparing our dog’s journey with someone else’s dog, focus on their personal learning. Be proud of the steps you and they have taken and the obstacles you’ve overcome.

Gundog training is a process that should be savoured. It’s a time to build trust and respect between you and your dog. If you focus on the end goal, you’ll miss all the wonderful moments along the way.

Take your time, enjoy the journey, and be proud of every accomplishment, no matter how small.

The Working Dog Training Age Race

When it comes to gundog training, there is no finish line. You will never “win” the training race. This isn’t a competition where the first person to cross the finish line is the winner. In fact, if you focus on winning, you’re likely to lose.

Dog training should be done slowly and sensibly for a number of reasons. First, it is important to give your dog time to learn new commands and behaviours. Rushing through training can result in your dog becoming confused or overwhelmed.

Secondly, taking things slowly allows you to build a strong bond with your dog based on trust and communication. This bond is essential for successful training.

Finally, going slowly makes it more likely that your dog will actually enjoy the process and want to learn more. When training is done sensibly, it can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend.

So, the next time you’re tempted to race through your dog’s training, remember to take a step back and enjoy the journey. It’s not about winning or losing. It’s about spending quality time with your best friend and working together towards common goals.

Happy training!`;

Understanding Reactive, Fearful or Aggressive Dogs

Do you have a dog that seems to be reactive or fearful of other dogs, people, or objects? Or maybe your dog is aggressive and barks or growls at anyone who comes near him? It can be really tough trying to deal with a dog like this, but fortunately, there is help. In this podcast and blog post, we will discuss the different types of reactive dogs and how you can help them.

Podcast Episode:

What is a reactive dog and what causes them to act this way

A reactive dog is one that becomes overstimulated or anxious in new environments or around other dogs. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including lack of socialization, previous traumatic experiences, genetics, and even health conditions.

When a reactive dog is faced with a trigger, they may exhibit a variety of behavioural issues, including barking, lunging, and trying to escape. While it can be difficult to manage a reactive dog, there are a number of strategies that can help to reduce their stress levels and improve their behaviour.

With patience and perseverance, it is possible for even the most reactive dog to learn to cope in new situations and enjoy time with other dogs.

The different types of reactive dogs

Springer spaniel, border collie, Jack Russell terrier — when most people think of “reactive dogs,” these are the breeds that come to mind. And it’s true that these high-energy dogs are commonly reactive, but they’re far from the only ones. In fact, any dog can be reactive, regardless of breed, size, or age.

So what exactly is a reactive dog? Reactive dogs are those that over-react or react excessively to stimuli in their environment. While reactivity is not inherently bad — after all, it’s simply a natural response to stimuli — it can be problematic if it leads to negative behaviours.

A common type of reactive dog is one that is afraid of loud noises, such as thunderstorms or fireworks. These dogs may try to hide, pace back and forth, or whine and tremble. Some may even become aggressive in an attempt to protect themselves from the perceived threat.

Other types of reactive dogs include those that are afraid of unfamiliar people or animals and those that become overexcited when they see something they want, such as a squirrel or another dog.

While all reactive dogs share a common trait – an excessive reaction to stimuli – the underlying cause can vary significantly from one dog to the next. As a result, it is important to work with a qualified trainer or behaviourist to determine the best way to help your reactive dog.

How to help your reactive dog

Dogs are social creatures that crave companionship, but sometimes they can be a little too enthusiastic in their greetings. If your dog jumps on visitors or barks excessively when someone comes to the door, he may be considered reactive.

First, it’s important to understand what is triggering the reaction – is it other dogs, people, or car rides? Once you know the trigger, you can work on desensitizing your dog to it. This may mean starting with short car rides or walks in areas where there are few other people or animals.

Secondly, give your dog lots of positive reinforcement when he behaves well around people. This could include treats, praise, or even just some extra petting.

Finally, avoid punishment when your dog is reactive. This will only serve to increase his anxiety and could make the problem worse. With a little patience and effort, you can help your reactive dog learn to relax and enjoy the company of others.

Resources for further help

If your dog is reactive, you are not alone. Many dog owners struggle to find ways to help their dogs feel calm and relaxed in the presence of other dogs and people. Fortunately, there are a variety of resources available to help you work with your reactive dog.

Dog trainers with experience working with reactive dogs can teach you how to modify your dog’s behaviour using positive reinforcement techniques. In addition, there are online support groups where you can connect with other dog owners who are dealing with similar issues. With patience and perseverance, you can help your reactive dog learn to cope with his fears and enjoy a happy, healthy life.

Let’s Talk Food Allergies and Intolerances

Just like us humans, dogs too suffer from food allergies and intolerances. One of our lovely members, Charlene Tildsley from The Countryman’s Choice has kindly provided us with this blog all about how to identify the differences between an allergy or intolerance, and what we can do to help our dogs with their nutritional requirements.

Introduction

Owning a dog with food intolerances or allergies can be hard going, take it from someone who knows! My Labrador, Diesel, suffered from the day I brought him home. He was weaned on to a popular brand but due to my understanding of canine nutrition, I was able to rectify his issues quickly. He has since then been fine with a couple of hiccups along the way so I have decided to let you in on my knowledge in the hope it may help your dogs too.
In recent years we have seen a rise in sensitivity in dogs when it comes to food but do you know the difference between allergies and intolerances? Let’s dive right in and take a look…..

Allergies

A pet food allergy involves the immune system. This can be triggered by a dog’s response to a certain ingredient such as a protein source. For example, cells may release histamine which causes itching. Generally, food allergies cause skin-related issues in dogs such as inflammation, itching, hair loss and hot spots. There is the possibility they can develop ear infections that can become a
reoccurring theme once treatment has ended. A dog that has a food allergy will most likely always suffer from this. However, the severity of this can change over time.

Intolerances
A pet food intolerance does not involve the immune system and is caused when a food doesn’t agree with a dog’s body. This is simply a functional or mechanical issue with digesting a particular food. An example of this is a dog may be sensitive to wheat. Intolerances often mimic food allergies because the body can only demonstrate a problem in so many ways. Common ingredients that may cause intolerance include grains (i.e wheat and maize), eggs, soya or dairy.

You may notice a difference in your dog if they have an allergy/intolerance.

So, what can dog owners do?

If an owner believes that their pet is suffering from a food allergy or intolerance, there is a number of things they can do:

  • Feed their pet Grain Free or Hypoallergenic food as this helps to avoid common allergens and intolerances.
  •  Choose a diet with a single protein source such as meat or fish.
  • Follow an elimination diet (This works by removing a suspect ingredient for a minimum of 4 weeks from a dog’s diet and then reintroducing the ingredient and waiting for a return of any physical changes).
Grain-Free

Grain-Free recipes are ideal for dogs with sensitivity or intolerance to grains or gluten; a great alternative to rice or cereal-based recipes. Pet Food formulated without grains may help to alleviate common symptoms of grain sensitivity or intolerance.

The benefits of Grain Free diets can include:
• Less and smaller stools
• Reduce Shedding
• Improved Skin & Coat Condition
• Improved Breath Odour
• Reduced Wind
• Reduced Itching & Scratching
• Reduced Digestive Upsets

The Benefits of Sweet Potato

Sweet Potato can be a key ingredient in many Grain Free dog foods. So let’s look at the benefits of Sweet Potato and why is it added?

  • It’s Superfood! Packed with a wide range of vitamins and minerals and is naturally gluten-free.
  • Great for digestion as sweet potatoes are high in fibre which helps to promote a healthy digestive system and good stool formation. They are also soothing to the stomach so are great for more sensitive dogs.
  • They have a low glycemic index which means that they release glucose more slowly into the bloodstream, unlike other starchy foods which release this more quickly once consumed. This means blood sugar levels remain more constant and provide a steady release of energy throughout the day to the dog.
  • They are one of the best sources of Vitamin A which is an antioxidant powerhouse and is thought to have anti-ageing properties along with helping to maintain good eyesight and aid skin and coat condition.
  • Thought to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties as they are rich in beta-carotene, an antioxidant, along with other vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin B complex, Iron, Phosphorus and Magnesium.

Sweet Potatoes offer a wide range of benefits to your dog.

It’s worth keeping this information in mind when searching for the right food for your dog. A lot of owners don’t even realise their dogs have allergies or intolerances due to the signs being so subtle in some dogs. With so much emphasis on our eating habits, maybe it’s time we looked at our dogs, more importantly, I believe working dogs should be the ones who are looked after as they help us more than the pet dog. The least we can do is to make sure they are fuelled correctly for those long days in the field!

To visit The Countryman’s Choice website, please click the button below:

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Coping With Kennel Cough

LWDG Group Expert Claire Denyer talks to us about what it’s like to have to cope with a dog with Kennel Cough in a multi-dog house.

Yesterday did not go as planned… I woke up yesterday morning to hear a hacking cough. When I went downstairs it was very apparent by the symptoms that poor Rose, my Labrador, has contracted Kennel Cough. Rose had a hacking cough and was bringing up bile and white foam. I recognised the symptoms from when my other Labrador Indy was poorly with Kennel Cough when she was a year old.

Kennel cough is a highly contagious infection. It commonly causes a persistent hacking cough. You should certainly speak to your vet for advice if you suspect your dog has a Kennel cough. For Rose, her cough sounded is in the video below:

The hacking cough sounds nasty, but Kennel Cough isn’t usually life-threatening. It can however be very serious to a young puppy, older dogs, and also to dogs with underlying health conditions. Our dogs are vaccinated against Kennel Cough, but unfortunately, the vaccine doesn’t protect against all strains of Kennel cough.

There’s an increase in cases of Kennel Cough at the moment so it’s good to be aware of symptoms and what to do if your dog does develop symptoms as it is highly contagious

Seeking Veterinary Advice With Kennel Cough

I called the vet and they wanted to examine her at the end of morning surgery (outside as it’s highly contagious). Unlike when Indy had Kennel cough, Rose ate her breakfast, although due to the persistent coughing it didn’t stay down. The vet examined Rose and prescribed antibiotics and rest.

Today her breakfast has stayed down. I’m keeping her hydrated, giving her honey, and goat’s milk, and she has a 10-day course of antibiotics prescribed by the vet.

The vet may carry out the following check as demonstrated by one of our Featured Experts. If the dog has kennel cough after the pressure is removed the dog will likely cough.

Disclaimers: if the dog doesn’t cough it is not 100% guaranteed that they do not have kennel cough. Please make sure if you attempt this you don’t press too hard and you know for certain that there is definitely no blockage in the dogs throat. Please seek medical advice from your vet

Multi Dog Households And Kennel Cough

The welfare of our dogs is the most important thing. At the moment Indy and Dude appear to be fine, but it can take a few days for symptoms to develop and if they have got it they are still contagious before symptoms appear.

Kennel cough symptoms can develop between a few days to a couple of weeks after being exposed. Some dogs can carry and pass on Kennel cough without having any symptoms themselves. There are a lot of cases of Kennel Cough at the moment, we have had quite a few clients cancel due to Kennel cough in recent weeks, and whilst we have taken as many precautions as we can, Rose has unfortunately contracted it.

Kennel Cough is contagious before symptoms occur and dogs with Kennel Cough or those living with dogs with Kennel Cough should be isolated for 10 days following symptoms.

It can be passed from dog to dog pretty easily, not only from droplets in the air but also from touching an infected dog. It can also be passed on from touching things that have been touched by an infected dog, this includes our clothes, toys, dummies,  food and water bowls, to name a few. We have been contacting clients due to see us over the coming days, and taking precautions, including changing clothes before seeing clients, and not using any dummies or equipment our dogs have touched.

We advise our clients not to bring a dog to class if they suspect they have Kennel Cough, or if they have been around a dog who has Kennel cough, just in case they are carrying it but not showing symptoms, and the same advice is important for anyone who is concerned their dog may have Kennel Cough or may have been in contact with a dog with it. Always seek advice from your Veterinary Surgeon.

Isolation Training You Can Carry Out At Home

There is a lot of training that you can carry out at home. The following video includes Heel, position transitions, steadiness, self-control, hold, delivery of retrieve, hand touch, settle etc.

You can do this with all dogs that are in isolation due to Kennel Cough but are not suspected of having or having Kennel Cough as these dogs need to rest.

Further information can also be found on the Kennel Clubs website about Kennel Cough

Further Info