Behaviour & Training

Teaching your puppy how to appropriately interact, behave and live in your world is a vital aspect of becoming a pet parent. Companion animals are not born knowing the rules of society or even in your home. They don’t know the guidelines of playing with other animals, or what you classify as ‘good’ behaviour or ‘bad’ behaviour. To animals, all behaviours are just behaviours. Some are repeated if they are reinforced, and some behaviours will decrease in frequency and effort if they prove to be useless and don’t work out to be beneficial to them.

While we love our dogs, at times they can behave in ways that we simply don’t want them to or that may even endanger them. It can be useful to teach our dogs to stop doing their inappropriate activity.

Small dog syndrome isn't as cute as it sounds. It's a mix of behaviors that small dogs use to overcompensate for their size. Picture this: hyperactivity, leaping like they're on a trampoline, growling at everything, trying to be the tough guy, and yes, a touch of fear around bigger dogs. Not every small pup has it, but when they do, it can throw a wrench into the mix for both owners and everyone nearby. Let's dive deep into small dog syndrome, dig out the why behind it, and learn how to handle it like a pro.

Training a dog to respond to the "sit" command is not only the first exercise you should attempt but also one of the most important commands they will ever learn. This foundational command sets the stage for further training and establishes a positive training relationship between you and your dog. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to teach your dog to sit effectively:

Separation anxiety in puppies can be a challenging issue for dog owners to navigate. This distressing condition manifests when a dog becomes greatly agitated each time their owner leaves, often resulting in behaviours such as scratching at the door, chewing belongings, or barking hysterically. Most dogs naturally crave closeness to their human companions, and those who haven't been gradually accustomed to solitude may display unwanted behaviours. Combatting separation anxiety requires a patient and consistent approach to help your puppy become more comfortable being alone.

Does your furry friend exhibit peculiar or amusing habits that leave you questioning their behaviour? Dogs, being unique individuals, often showcase distinct quirks, whether it's their endearing greeting rituals or the specific way they choose to nestle in their beds each night. These idiosyncrasies might be more than just charming antics; some can be traced back to their shared ancestry with wolves. Let's delve into the fascinating world of common dog habits that frequently pique curiosity.

In all the excitement of bringing your new puppy home, it is important to remember to start their training right away. The sooner you introduce good habits, the better it will be for both of you as your puppy learns to understand foundation skills and cues and gets to grips with your house rules. Puppy training doesn’t just improve their manners; it’s a fun and rewarding way for you to spend quality time together and really helps you strengthen your bond. Most dogs love training – it is a chance for them to challenge their brains, earn rewards and get lots of praise and attention! The fastest way to start your puppy training journey is to enrol in an excellent well run puppy preschool hosted by a qualified trainer that uses proven and current methods of positive reinforcement to develop skills in your little learner and shows you as the teacher the best ways to work with your new pup.

Training is an important part of any dog's life, providing mental and physical exercise while enhancing the bond with your furry companion. When training your dog, it's crucial to use reward-based training, also known as positive reinforcement, which involves rewarding good behaviour.

At nine months of age, puppies are well into adolescence. This stage is often marked by bursts of independence, curiosity, and sometimes stubbornness. It’s a critical time for owners to provide guidance, structure, and plenty of opportunities for exploration. Two key aspects of life with a 9‑month‑old puppy are the importance of outdoor experiences and understanding why dogs mark their territory.

Welcoming an 8-week-old puppy into your home is an amazing and exciting experience filled with joy and responsibility. To ensure your new companion grows into a healthy and well-adjusted adult dog, it is essential to focus on four key areas this week: nutrition, training, socialisation, and grooming.

By six months of age, puppies are entering adolescence - a stage filled with excitement, challenges, and important milestones. They are no longer tiny puppies, but not yet mature adults. This period is crucial for shaping their health, behaviour, and the bond you share with them. Three key areas often come into focus at this age: desexing, changes in their coat, and the importance of name recognition.

At five months of age, puppies are brimming with energy, curiosity, and a growing sense of independence. This stage is often described as the “toddler phase” of canine development. They are still very much a puppy, but their personalities are beginning to shine through, and their physical abilities are expanding rapidly.