It’s not surprising that sometimes your dog’s behaviour can leave you scratching your head in confusion.

After all, training dogs is, in essence, an act of one species trying to communicate with another in a language in which only one of them is fluent!  

Are dog behavioural issues different from training?

Yes, and at Love Your Dog Training I work with both.  So how can you tell the difference?

Walking your dog should be a pleasant and productive experience for pets and owners alike. But when your dog is constantly pulling on the lead, it can quickly become frustrating and even a concern for their well-being.

It has been quite a year for dogs and their owners; I have been kept very busy indeed.

I thought it would be useful to give you a quick update on what I’m seeing

Cases of ‘dognapping’ are on the rise - -

It’s a question I get asked all the time. Should I allow my dog on the sofa with me, or will it ruin my dog?

My answer as with most things relating to dogs is - -

Does your dog jump up at you and even bite or nip you or your visitors?

Although jumping is a natural behaviour for a dog it can be annoying, embarrassing or even at times downright dangerous.

Jumping happens when a dog becomes excited and is looking to get your attention. They have learned that if they jump you will respond by:

Lockdown has caused a generation of fearful dogs due to lack of socialisation. Many will end up in rescues

One of the pluses of being in lockdown has been to spend more time with our pets. Dogs in particular are very social and enjoy having us around too.

However, there are concerns that when we go back to work life for our furry friends will change overnight leaving many struggling to cope.

Getting a puppy or dog can be a minefield these days and its worth being in the know. After all, you may have your pooch for 13 years plus.

How can you protect yourself and make sure you get a healthy dog? There are a couple of rules to follow.

It can be really distressing to see a dog that’s very frightened and nervous. These dogs are in a constant state of panic and will run or hide if they get the chance. Their body language is very telling - their ears will be flat back, body low and will hesitate or even pull away from anything that frightens them. They can get quite agitated facing something they are uncomfortable with.

January is a time for starting over, making New Year’s Resolutions and thinking about the changes you would like to make for the year ahead. This January, my challenge to you is to take a moment and think about your dog. Be realistic and rather than putting up with those annoying behaviours let’s make this the year to make some changes. Are you with me?

Useful tips on training by Lynne Marshall as featured in Crufts Magazine, December 2014

Cute chocolate labrador Jack was so frightened of stepping foot outside that he would shake, cry and play dead to avoid leaving the house.

The 18-month-old pooch has stayed indoors ever since he was a puppy and had never been for a walk until recently, despite help from his worried owners.

Dragging you along, pulling the socket out of your armpit and embarrassing you in front of the neighbours? Don’t worry; it is possible to enjoy walking your dog on the lead again!