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Observation & Insight Workshop – Part Two! 🐾 We were joined by four wonderful teams today for our workshop with K9 Splash & Trail , this time focusing on scent work! First, the dogs were handled by a professional, giving owners the chance to step back, observe, and gain real insight into the subtle body language cues they might miss when handling themselves. Then it was the owner’s turn to take the lead and put their new-found handling knowledge into practice. We started with Harrow, at just 8 months old. As he’s going through hormonal changes, we focused on observing his emotional processing and problem-solving and he did some fantastic work! Next up was Winston. This boy definitely keeps you on your toes! With 20+ breeds in the mix, he can display some unusual body language and uses a wide range of indication behaviours 😜 He tends to favour between 3–4, which makes him fascinating to watch and requires handlers to stay sharp. Romeo was up next, and he smashed it! As a complete newbie, rather than refining details, we focused on building drive, developing his understanding of the game, and conditioning him to his first scent. Last but not least was Paulie - what a poppet she is! Although she has a solid scent work history, our approach was completely new to her. After taking some time to process, she proved herself to be a star and gained so much confidence. All of our handlers took on board their insights and applied them brilliantly, providing their dogs with clearer communication, better understanding, and increased drive. If you’d love to try scent work with your dog, get in touch to book your space on the next session.
This week our Scent Scouts got a little more technical! We were joined by Nelson and Bella, and things definitely started getting serious 🤣 This session was all about decoys (scent pots with no scent mixed in between those that did have scent in) designed to really test focus and accuracy. We kicked off in our usual search area (no decoys), working across different heights. Then we expanded the search area for the second round… and introduced the decoys. Nelson showed off his incredible memory, checking areas where pots had previously been placed. He’s has some experience with decoys before and had picked up a cheeky habit of “chancing it” just in case there was a reward 😅 But we worked with this and He absolutely smashed it! We even added an extra challenge by having another dog visible in his search area… and he handled it brilliantly ❤️ Bella came in with her usual calm, chilled vibes.. She tried out a new harness (which she rocked) This was her first time working with multiple decoys. She didn’t waste a second on them straight to business!With a few small handler tweaks, her searches became even smoother! We’re so proud of their progress, definitely ones to watch 👀 If you’d like to join the Scent Scouts adventures, whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned pro, we welcome all abilities and ages! Pop us a message to get started ❤️
We didn’t create our classes to be just another hour in your already busy week. Not a quick session you attend… then forget about. We built something different. A class where you work on the training that actually matters. Where you feel a connection with your dog. Where you feel safe showing up exactly as you are, with your dog, challenges and all. Because the real magic? It’s not just in the training, It’s in the community. The people who show up not just for themselves but for each other. The ones who celebrate wins, no matter how small. Who support, uplift, and truly care. The clients who want the best not only for their own dogs.. but for everyone else’s too. Today, I’m celebrating our community across Scent Scouts and our Leash & Learn WhatsApp groups. The ones who… Advocate for their dogs Look out for other dogs Set everyone up for success, not just themselves Show up honestly, even on the hard days Share, support, and lift others when it matters most. This is what we set out to create. Not just classes… But a place for growth. For confidence. For belonging. And in our setting.. It’s more powerful than people realise. I’ve seen it transform nervous dogs into confident ones. Turn overwhelmed owners into calm, capable handlers. And create bonds that go far beyond the training session. If you’d like to join our safe space, pop us a WhatsApp and tell us a bit about you and your dog!
Observation & Insight Workshop – Part 1 Today we held our workshop alongside K9 Splash & Trail 🐾 We had four teams join us (three experienced mantrailing dogs and one newbie) and each had the opportunity to watch their dog being handled by someone else (me) before taking the lead themselves. This shift in perspective is incredibly powerful. Instead of focusing on handling, footing, and the usual pressures, handlers were able to step back and truly observe their dogs, they was guided both by an instructor (Tasha) and myself as the handler. This gave them a much deeper understanding of the subtle cues and components they often miss when they’re in the moment & how as a handler they can support their dogs and was given important safety tips from the handlers perspective based on that individual dog. For the second trail, it was their turn to put everything into practice and the results were fantastic. We saw smoother trails, more confident handling, and dogs working with less hesitation & more confidence. Handlers trusted their dogs more, reducing that overthinking, and applied what they’d learned with real clarity. As handlers, we have a huge impact on our dogs often without even realising it. This workshop helped highlight those small but important moments where we can either support or unintentionally interrupt a trail. A massive well done to everyone who joined us today - you should be so proud of both yourself and your dogs! �We can’t wait for Part 2! Next weekend for scent work! If you’d like to start your scent work journey with Hoof & Paws, click the WhatsApp button and let’s get started 🐶
To the outside world we looked like just two people having a natter, with a cuppa and cake. This afternoon I had the absolute pleasure of training with Enda and his mum! I say this because honestly we had the best time! It was full of advise, questions, training and relaxing, along with lots of of laughter and meeting people in faversham. We had a absolute delicious cake and cuppa at Standard Quay and visited @harleys place to choose a chew for Enda to enjoy whilst we sat along with a return visit for my own dogs to get a treat. This may seem crazy to some…that’s not a training session, what’s this got to do with training? but for Enda and his mum this is their life, their routine..their happy place! We made some small training adjustments which made the whole experience a much more enjoyable for them both and lot less challenging. Training shouldn’t feel stressful, shouldn’t feel like you can’t have a laugh along the way.. we share only a small period of time with our dogs and it should be fun and full of laughter even when things aren’t “perfect” If you feel like your not seeing that fun and laughter side and maybe your struggling with a specific behaviour? 1:1 training might be just what you need. Drop us a message on WhatsApp and tell us a bit about the challenges you currently have with your dog’s behaviour.
Expectations vs Reality We live in a world of quick turnarounds and “Instagram results” where everything looks instant and effortless. But the truth? �Real progress takes patience, and understanding and sometimes a bit of time. I was in the car tonight listening to We Need To Talk by Paul Carrick Brunson where he was interviewing Jo Frost. She was asked: “Was there ever a family you couldn’t help?” Her answer was simple: no. Because it’s not just about giving advice, it’s about that advice being followed. When it is, results come. That really resonated with me. As trainers, we’re not fully responsible for what happens between sessions, how often you practice, whether things are rushed, or if steps are skipped. That’s exactly why, at Hoof & Paws, we offer ongoing message support along with video reviews with every training service. Whether you choose to use it is up to you of course, but we believe the best results come from working as a team. We’d rather you check in, ask questions, and stay connected than risk setbacks or regression It’s about building, step by step, strong foundations and your human to dog relationship growth! Not sure where to start? That's what we're here for. Drop us a WhatsApp by clicking the button below and we'll point you in the right direction
Are you looking forward to summer… but not the dog walks? ☀️🐕 With more people, more dogs, and more distractions, walks can quickly become stressful instead of enjoyable. Imagine being able to walk past others calmly and actually enjoy your time together. We can help give you the tools on our Leash and Learn on Saturday 21st March, 10am at Clowes Woods. These training sessions are designed to help you and your dog enjoy calmer, more relaxed walks. We focus on: ✔️ Calm walking on a lead ✔️ Passing other dogs and people with confidence ✔️ Managing everyday distractions ✔️ “Classroom learning” out in the real world where it matters most. If walks are something you dread rather than enjoy, something needs to change. Let us help, message us on WhatsApp and tell us what feels most challenging right now.
If you’ve ever apologised for your dogs behaviour before a class even started… this is for you. We hear it all the time. Owners arriving already a bit on edge, holding the lead a little tighter than normal.. Hoping that today isn’t one of those days, where their dog just doesn’t listen and thinking about all of the what if scenarios. We understand. Because many of the dogs who come to us have big feelings. Dogs who might lunge sometimes either with excitement or fear. Dogs who can be vocal. Dogs who get a little too excited when they see other dogs. And behind every one of those dogs is an owner who’s often trying their very best and hoping no one is judging them. So we created something different. A safe space for the dogs who feel things loudly to be supported in a way that aids growth! A no-judgement zone for the owners who love them. A place where no one has to apologise for showing up. And a place where you don’t have to worry about being able to make it every single week at a set time (we offer flexible booking with mixture of dates/times to suit) Our classes are designed to support both ends of the lead. You’ll be surrounded by people who get it, trainers who understand behaviour, and a community that cheers every small win and offer you support on those trickier days! Inside our classes and our supportive WhatsApp community, you’ll find guidance, encouragement, and people walking the same journey as you. Because training shouldn’t feel like something you have to survive. It should feel like something that finally gives you hope. 💛 If you’ve been putting off classes because you’re worried about how your dog might behave… 💛 If you’ve felt embarrassed or judged before… 💛 If you just want support from people who truly understand… You are exactly who we created this for. 👉 Message us to find out about our upcoming classes and secure your space.
We know you didn't get a dog to leave them at home. Most of us picture family days out, maybe a lazy pub lunch when the sun finally appears but the reality of life with our dogs is often a bit more challenging than that. If they aren't barking for attention, trying to steal food from the table, or just generally making a nuisance of themselves... family days out probably feel like a million miles away right now. This is one of the reasons why we run our Pub Workshops at Chestfield Barn. Even if going to a pub isn't quite your thing, this real-life setting gives you and your dog the chance to actually learn what it takes to settle calmly in busier locations. Our next workshop with available spaces is this coming Wednesday 18th March at 10:30am. Supported by two trainers, we'll guide you to teach your dog how to: ✅ Stay settled while a server brings drinks to the table ✅ Remain calm while you go up to the bar ✅ Simply coexist in a busy space ✅ Develop that all-important "off switch" Don't wait until the better weather arrives, start now and thank us later. Send us a message for the booking link, or to ask any questions. We promise you and your dog will be welcome, no matter what antics they might get up too! Here’s our two practicing what we preach 👇🏻
Does your dog struggle to settle in busy environments? Cafés, pubs, and other social places can be overwhelming for some dogs but it doesn’t have to stay that way. Join us for our Pub Workshop at Chestfield Barn on 18th March at 10:30am. In this real-life setting, your dog will learn to settle calmly alongside other like-minded owners and dogs. We’ll cover practical skills such as: • Staying settled while a server brings drinks to the table • Remaining calm while you go up to the bar • Learning to simply coexist in a busy space • Developing that all-important “off switch” This is perfect for dogs who find busy environments exciting, distracting, or just a little too much. Ready to put your training into practice ahead of the better weather? Visit our Website for more info, or send us a message and we can share the direct booking link with you to your inbox.
Something really special happened in our classes this week, the kind of moment we often dream about, when working with dogs who have big emotions. This week, it became a reality. In both our Scent Scouts and Leash & Learn classes, dogs who usually struggle around others, dogs who have been known to show some very big feelings, were able to settle, feel safe, and share the space together. You might be wondering, what do we mean by big feelings. Dogs who get easily frustrated Bark at people or other dogs. Dogs Who lunge Dogs who become hard to handle for owners And the best part? They supported each other. ❤️ Smudge supported Tula.�Tula calmly watched Smudge doing what he does best (scent detection) and even joined in the scent pool. Later, smudge also supported Dolly during Leash & Learn while she worked through her excitement around the other dogs. Biscuit was supported by Zeus, and we saw some beautiful body language between them they even walked back side by side. 🥹 For many of our owners, moments like this once felt impossible. But with patience, the right environment, guidance from us and a supportive community, it happened. We’re so grateful for the people and dogs who make this space what it is.. a place where progress is celebrated and everyone supports each other. If you’d like to be part of a kind, supportive community working towards real progress with their dogs, we’d love you to join us. All you need to do is send us a message, and we will tell you how you can get involve.
What little crackers we had out today on Scent Scouts and Leash & Learn! Two brilliant groups and lots of great work from both dogs and handlers. It’s always so nice seeing everyone settle in, have fun and make real progress together. In Scent Scouts, the dogs got to do what they do best, use their noses! Scentwork is such a brilliant outlet for dogs of all types. It taps into their natural instincts, helps build confidence and gives them a really positive way to use their brain. Even the dogs that start a little unsure often end up absolutely loving the challenge, and it’s amazing watching them figure things out and grow in confidence. Over in Leash & Learn, we focused on the everyday skills that make a huge difference for you and your dog. Loose lead walking, checking in with their handler, and learning how to make good choices around distractions. These sessions are all about building those foundations, so walks can feel calmer and more enjoyable for both ends of the lead. What we love most about these group sessions is seeing the dogs learn with their owners. Everyone supports each other, the dogs build great skills, and there’s always plenty of laughs along the way too. Well done to everyone who came along today your dogs were brilliant. If you’ve been thinking about joining one of our group sessions, pop us a message. we’d love to see you and your dog there.
Your dog doesn’t understand the word ‘no’… and here’s why. This can be a bit of a sore subject, but it’s something I see far too often. Owners shouting “NO!” at their dogs… with no guidance on what they would actually like their dog to do instead. Sometimes even “trainers” advising it as part of a training plan. I’ve had clients tell me they were told to say “no” and then give a tug on the lead. But what is that actually teaching the dog? For most dogs, the word “no” simply has no meaning.�And why would it? Words only gain meaning when we consistently teach and reinforce them. Yet people are often told to use “no” for everything - jumping up, barking, stealing food, pulling on the lead, even reacting to other dogs. But rarely is it clearly conditioned or followed by guidance that helps the dog understand, what behaviour we actually want instead or considers the dog’s emotional wellbeing. From the dog’s perspective, “no” often just becomes background noise or an emotional sound rather than useful information. Instead of telling dogs what not to do, effective training focuses on teaching them what to do. For example, with my own dogs I’ve conditioned the word “nope” to mean “try again.” It’s delivered in an inquisitive tone rather than as punishment. It simply tells my dog that the choice they made didn’t earn reinforcement, and another behaviour might. Sometimes it also tells me that I haven’t been clear enough and need to ask again and that’s not my dog’s fault. This keeps training clear, fair, and frustration-free for both dogs and their handlers. Because good training isn’t about correcting mistakes It’s about helping dogs understand how to succeed and setting them up for success. ❤️ If this sounds like something you’re dealing with at the moment, we can help. Send us a message and we’ll show you how to turn that confusion into clear communication your dog actually understands.
Today we celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women everywhere. 💜 From breaking barriers to lifting others up and shaping change, women continue to be a vital part of our communities. Let’s not only celebrate today, but also keep pushing for opportunity, equality, and respect every day. Happy International Women’s Day! 🌍 If you have a special woman in your life that you’re proud of, tag them below and let’s celebrate them together! ❤️ ⭐ BONUS: If they run a business, give them a huge shout-out and tag their business too so we can support them!
At Hoof & Paws, we’ve still got plenty happening this March, for you and your dogs of all ages and abilities. Classes and services currently running include: Scent Scouts – fun scentwork sessions that build confidence and tire busy brain, all abilities and ages welcomed ❤️ �Leash & Learn – real world walking and training practice whilst out and about �Behaviour & Training Support – personalised solo support for things like reactivity, anxiety, in house issues, even the basics if you’d like just some one to one support ❤️ If you’re looking to improve your dog’s skills or just give them something fun to do, we’d love to help. Message us to find the right option for you and your dog & join our supportive WhatsApp community today!
In honour of World Book Day, I thought I’d share our story… So far, we’re on Chapter 7 and what a journey it’s been. This story started 7 years ago with just me… one person, offering dog walks, pet check-ins and pet sitting for all species. Just an idea and a dream to help pet owners feel confident their animals were well cared for and it started because of Bella pictured here What started as something small has evolved into something far bigger than I ever imagined, and something I’m incredibly proud of. When I started, I was in my twenties. Now in my thirties, my mission hasn’t changed: to help owners and their pets live happier lives together. But the way I want to do that has evolved with every chapter. School was never a place where I thrived. I left early with no GCSEs and honestly education system just wasn’t for me. Then one spontaneous decision changed everything… I applied for a dog training course. That one off-the-cuff decision, opened a door I never thought i could manage and it completely changed the direction of this journey. Now in Chapter 7, we’re not just walking dogs, or caring for pets, we’re helping owners understand their pets better through behaviour support and training, and creating a supportive space for people to learn and connect with their animals and other owners. From our scent scouts, to leash and learn even our behaviour one to one’s .. we aim to educate, encourage and enrich the human and animal we see and create ever lasting memories. And I truly believe as we enter our 8th chapter in September, that’s the next chapter is going to be the most exciting yet. Chapter 8 is about growth. More opportunities to educate. More support for owners. More ways to improve the wellbeing and behaviour of the pets we love so much. If you’ve been part of this journey as a client, supporter, friend or follower, thank you for being part of the story so far. ❤️ And I’d love to know… How long have you been following our journey?
Are you struggling to know how to fit training into your regular walks? Leash & Learn Sessions are a one hour guided small group walk, where you will work hands on with a trainer, for on the go - real time support. Working on practical training skills that help you and your dog get spring walk ready * Polishing up loose lead walking * Sharpening recall * Resetting focus and engagement Helping your dog remember they do, in fact, have brain cells... Training doesn’t have to be separate from your walk. It can be part of it, let us show you how. Your first step is to join our Free - WhatsApp Community, where we share upcoming Leash & Learn dates, locations and needs to know so you can join in. Designed for busy owners, who need flexible training options we have mid-week and weekend availability throughout the Month. Send us a message to join, and we will send you the direct link 🐾
Weekend Scent Scout Success! We were so excited to welcome two newbies to their very first session this weekend ❤️ What a brilliant way to wrap up our final session of February! Harrow and Archie picked things up so quickly, confidently working both high and low hides. They explored a variety of heights and textures, growing in confidence with every search and really trusting their noses. Archie even showed fantastic focus when faced with a real-life distraction, an off-lead dog from a member of the public. While it wasn’t ideal, it gave us the perfect opportunity to practice working through everyday situations. Our dogs don’t just learn to search… they learn to cope, focus and thrive in the real world too.. Both dogs also did some lovely work sharing space and settling around each other, building calm confidence as well as skills. The best part? Two very happy, very content dogs who went home and napped the afternoon away — the ultimate sign of a fulfilled mind.. If you’d love your dog to build confidence, develop focus, and have a fun, enriching outlet in a supportive environment, we’d love to welcome you to our next session. Come and join our Scent Scout WhatsApp community and be part of the fun! 🤩 Drop us a message to book your spot or join our WhatsApp group for updates and upcoming sessions!
From breakthroughs to brave firsts… Yesterday’s Scent Scouts session showcased three incredible dogs, each on their own unique journey, and what a joy it was to watch. Legend Moose came to me with a bit of a aversion to scent detection. Together, we’ve transformed that hesitation into enthusiasm, building genuine drive, confidence, and a beautiful, clear indication. Yesterday, we introduced a brand-new odour for the very first time… and wow. No hesitation, no uncertainty he was straight in there. Proof of what patience, trust, and the right approach can achieve. We were also joined by Little Biscuit. This sweet girl can sometimes find her emotions bubbling over, but yesterday she showed us her steady side. Despite it being her very first scent detection session, you truly wouldn’t have known she’s an absolute natural with a lovely instinct for the work. And then there’s Busta, joining us for his second session. Busta initially came to us struggling with big emotions that, at times, translated into big behaviours the kind that can look intimidating to others because of his size… But really behind those behaviours is a sensitive soul. His humans have been working incredibly hard between sessions to implement management strategies and the advice given by us, and the transformation has been wonderful to witness. Not only is he excelling in scent detection, but he’s also beginning to integrate calmly into the group environment. What a huge achievement. I couldn’t be prouder of every one of our Scent Scouts and of their dedicated owners. The support they show one another, both in our WhatsApp community and during sessions, is what makes this group so special. If you’d love to explore scent detection with your dog in a supportive, encouraging environment - pop us a message to join our WhatsApp community today ❤️
March Training Dates at Hoof & Paws. We’re looking forward to a full month of practical training designed to support both you and your dog. Scent Scouts Scent work is a fantastic way to build confidence, improve focus and provide enriching mental stimulation. These sessions are suitable for a wide range of dogs, all breeds and abilities welcomed. Leash & Learn Easy walking doesn’t always happen, it sometimes needs guidance, consistency and the right setup. These sessions focus on teaching dogs how to make better choices on walks, in real-life environments, with supportive coaching throughout. 1-1 Training & Behaviour Support Jess and Millie have limited availability for personalised training and behaviour consultations in March. If you’re navigating specific challenges or would benefit from a tailored plan, we’re here to help you feel confident and supported every step of the way. Our approach is kind, ethical and practical giving you support that work in everyday life, not just in a class setting. Spaces are limited, so please get in touch to join our WhatsApp community groups or visit our website to secure your place on the classes ❤️ We’re excited to work with you and your dogs this month. 💚
What Trigger Stacking Looks Like… For me, the last few weeks have felt overwhelming, my stress levels have tripled over my usual threshold. It hasn’t been one huge, dramatic event. It’s been small things. Often out of my control. Minimal stresses that quietly add up. For me it’s been: The weather. Shifts in my schedule. Extra added hormones in my body. Feeling like I haven’t spent enough time with my Zeus. Additional life pressures I can’t control. Individually? Manageable. Together? Overwhelming. So what tipped me over the edge and made me realise I needed to step back for a moment? Our washing machine broke. Now, that might sound trivial. Realistically, it’s not even my problem to fix. But for me, it’s a big deal. It’s one of those small, predictable parts of my routine that keeps me regulated. When that routine is disrupted, I feel uncomfortable. Anxious. Snappy. Unable to focus. Even staying on top of my usual admin tasks feels impossible. That’s trigger stacking. Trigger stacking is what happens when multiple stressors often small and seemingly insignificant, occur close together and exceed someone’s emotional capacity. It’s not about one big thing - It’s about the accumulation. And our dogs are no different. Maybe they’ve been on a walk and been exposed to several triggers, even if they didn’t react at the time. Add in not enough sleep. Too many high-arousal activities. Another walk full of stimulation or triggers. Suddenly, they’re tipped off balance. The reaction you see in that moment isn’t “out of nowhere.” It’s the final straw. Understanding trigger stacking for ourselves and for our dogs allows us to respond with compassion instead of frustration. And sometimes, even we as humans get tipped over the edge by our life’s and then add in a struggle dog’s behaviour feels all to much… and that’s okay too. This is often a conversation we have during training. I ask how you are coping, because your feelings are just as much a part of the picture. In order to help your dog regulate, you need to feel regulated too. If this resonated, drop a ❤️ & if you’d like to explore getting some support, drop us a message 🙂
Are your walks more of a workout than a wander? A lot of our clients say they’re absolutely knackered after their dog walks… and honestly, that can change! With the right guidance you can teach your dog how to enjoy the environment and stay connected to you. Loose lead walking doesn’t mean taking the fun out of the walk it’s about balance. If you feel like the only one having these walks, you’re not. It’s completely normal. The world outside is exciting for dogs full of smells, sounds and movement. It’s not about your dog trying to be “in charge” or get ahead of you, it’s simply that they want to explore the environment at their speed. One of our recent clients, Leo, has been working on this exact skill with Millie and he’s absolutely smashing it. Calm, more connected walks are becoming the norm. And that’s the beauty of 1–1 training, we focus on what matters most to you, at a pace that works for your dog. If your ready to get started to jump into some training with your dog, pop us a message 🐶
Today’s Leash & Learn session was exactly how training should look, calm, thoughtful, and purposeful. Training sessions shouldn’t be chaotic, loud or rushed. It’s meant to feel safe, slow, and achievable for both dogs and handlers. To some, the session might have looked uneventful. But that chilled? That’s regulation. That’s dogs thinking instead of reacting. That’s learning actually happening. We worked in a new environment, with other dogs around and plenty of distractions. Some dogs focused on loose-lead walking. Others were working through big emotions and learning how to exist comfortably within the group. No rushing. No pressure. Just meeting each dog where they were and giving them the time to adjust to a new environment. In these sessions we assess each dog as they’re and form the session around this. Yes we have a rough plan but most the time these plans change. If you are looking for opportunities to do training in the real world with your dog leash and learn is great. We have some slots for upcoming sessions you can find here: https://www.hoof-paws.co.uk/group-dog-training-workshops/ And keep your eyes peeled for all our March training class dates. 👀
Life gets a little noisy sometimes. The world moves fast. There are endless emails, messages across multiple platforms, houses to run, relationships to nurture… and that never-ending to-do list. It’s all too easy to feel overwhelmed. And if you’re anything like me, there isn’t a neat, predictable weekly routine. Every week looks different. Life has felt a little chaotic lately and so many of our clients have told us they’re feeling the same. That’s exactly why we decided to do things differently. After last year and conversations with clients, we decided to re-designed our classes to properly support busy, real-life schedules. Both our Scent Scouts (scent work) and Leash & Learn classes offer: Flexible, easy online booking Classes running at different times, days, and locations - to suit more of you! Offering the freedom to fit your dog’s training around your family life. Whether you’re building confidence and connection through scent work in our Scent Scouts, or strengthening everyday skills in Leash & Learn, we’ve created options that work for you. And you won’t be doing it alone. Both programmes include ongoing support through our wonderful WhatsApp communities, you have encouragement, guidance, and like-minded dog owners cheering you on every step of the way. If life feels busy, but you still want to prioritise your dog’s training and enrichment, we’d love for you to join us. Come and be part of Scent Scouts or Leash & Learn, and let’s make training fit into your life.
“In a group setting? Absolutely not.” “My dog couldn’t do scent work in a group!.” You’re not alone. We hear this all the time. And then people come along for the first time… that’s where the magic happens ✨ A dog experiences the world through their nose first. In fact, their sense of smell is estimated to be up to 100,000 times more powerful than ours. When we allow them to use it intentionally, we’re tapping into their most natural instinct. And during our sessions, it’s not just the dogs learning. We teach owners how to read body language, understand emotions, and truly see what their dog is communicating. One of the biggest changes we see? Dogs who struggle with overarousal, nervousness, or even reactivity start to regulate themselves, when attending one of our Scent Scout sessions, owners being able to support them too! Searching lowers pressure. It allows them to think. To succeed. To win. And the best part? Every dog can do it. Any breed. Any age. No prior experience needed. If you’ve been curious but worried about joining, we’re here to support you. And don’t worry if a group really isn’t for you - we offer solos too! Pop us a message to join our supportive WhatsApp community and come along to next week’s session 🐾
Love is in the air at The Scent Scouts! ❤️ Today, eight incredible Scent Scouts joined us across two sessions to celebrate Valentine’s Day and love truly was all around. The love and support shown for one another during our sessions and within our community groups is second to none. It’s something really special to be part of. But what was truly magical to witness today was the dedication our caregivers show to their dogs learning, owners observing and learning their dog’s body language with our guidance, advocating and supporting their emotional needs, and really elevating those scent detection skills. We had eight very different dogs with us, each working through their own journey. There were so many beautiful moments from a few firsts, choosing to disengage, calmly observing others, building emotional regulation, and finding confidence in shared spaces. Hearing owners say how proud they are of their dogs, and how grateful they feel for the support, genuinely brought tears to my eyes. Every single dog and their human deserves a post of their own, so we shall be shining the spotlight on our scent scout dogs as individuals very soon! But for now We are absolutely bursting with love and pride for our Scent Scouts and all they are achieving. ❤️✨ Been following along and thinking about joining? 🤔 Take this as your sign! We’d love to welcome you into our WhatsApp community, come and feel the support, connection, and magic for yourself. ✨
Does your dog listen perfectly at home… but the moment you step into the real world it all goes out the window? You’re not alone, this is very common and completely normal. The outside world is full of exciting distractions for dogs, other animals, new textures, interesting smells and unfamiliar noises. That’s exactly why we created Leash & Learn. It’s training in real-life environments, where you actually take your dog to. We work on real problems in real places, covering things like, Loose lead walking, Over-arousal, Recall, Engagement and focus around everyday distractions. All in a variety of locations. If this is something your dog struggles with, pop us a message or you can book your space below, you can also find our Scent Scout classes here too: https://www.hoof-paws.co.uk/group-dog-training-workshops/
A conversation during our scent scouts session yesterday, where by three very different reactive dogs attended.. Client: “Oh you’ve had some right challenging dogs recently” “But I know that’s how you like it” Me: “you know me, i love those cases they scratch my itch” 😜 “these are the ones i love to work with” ❤️ This conversation got me thinking about how people perceive dogs with big emotions and why I will keep sharing their stories 🥹 Some will call their dogs aggressive some will say nervous, loud, a risk even some even say they are a bloody nightmare… And then some owners, who are just about holding it together. We ponder at dogs emotions, we observe, we question, we analyse their body language. How and what is that dog is trying to communicate. This is who we are for… we are for you! Those, Who look at our classes and thinking id love to go but my dog big emotions are a lot. We are for the owner sitting in the shadows fearing judgement, sitting on the sidelines sad, everytime you check out facebook seeing trainers or even friends posts thinking I’d never be able to attend a class.. We see you, and we are here to support you! If you’ve been watching from the sidelines, this is your sign. Drop us a message and let’s talk about how we can support you ❤️
A huge well done to everyone who attended Leash & Learn at the pub yesterday. we had all four dogs at peak or entering adolescence, You and your dogs did an excellent job! Each owner practised ordering a drink and handling the situation exactly as they would in the real world, managing distractions, emotions, and everyday pressures that can make outings challenging. These moments are where training truly matters. It was great to see dogs settling, engaging with their handlers, and working through big feelings in a supportive environment. This is what Leash & Learn is all about, taking training beyond a fully controlled class room setting and helping dogs develop calm, workable skills in real-life situations. If this is something you’d like to join in on, maybe you’ve even been following our recent posts but maybe weekdays don’t work for you, we have a weekend Leash & Learn session available too! You can find it here along with all our other classes https://www.hoof-paws.co.uk/group-dog-training-workshops/ This general session is suitable for all ages and focuses on implementing training in the real world where dogs often find things most difficult. We work on managing big emotions, improving engagement, and building skills that make everyday walks and outings more enjoyable. To support you beyond the session, we have fantastic WhatsApp community group, where you can receive continued support and connect with other like-minded owners on the same journey. Pop us a message with your name and number to get added to the community.
Why I wouldn’t personally recommend solely hand-feeding as a training method. This is slightly controversial within the industry, and it’s something I still hear recommended by trainers. The reasons given are usually things like creating food drive, preventing overeating, or adding value to the handler. But for me, this doesn’t sit right. Personally speaking I become a bit of a grump when I’m hungry, and no way would I be productive in my work. So I ask you would expect a child to go to school hungry to learn? so why do some people expect a dog to do this? Learning requires safety, regulation, and enough physical fuel to actually process information. This doesn’t mean I advocate overfeeding. If weight management is needed, I always recommend adjusting overall intake appropriately, not withholding meals. I also don’t ask an animal to choose food over emotional safety. I’ve seen hand-feeding used to push very uncomfortable animal to come into close proximity with people before they’re emotionally ready, essentially asking them to override their feelings for food. That’s not confidence building that’s conflict. Food can absolutely be a powerful tool in training, but it should support learning, not replace consent, emotional readiness, or basic welfare. For me, meals are about nourishment, any food outside of this and during training are for only two things enrichment and reward. Training is about communication. When we blur those lines, we risk losing trust instead of building it. If you’ve been asked to withhold meals from your dog and only feed when training and it doesn’t sit right with you, get in touch ❤️
Looking for something fun, enriching and confidence building for your dog this February? We’ve got some exciting things happening at Hoof & Paws, with sessions designed to support your dog’s brain, behaviour and real-life skills, all in a calm, supportive environment. Scent Scouts – perfect for dogs who love to sniff, explore and work at their own pace Valentine’s Scent Scouts – a special treat for you and your dog ❤️ badge given to ever dog who attends Leash & Learn – relaxed, practical training in the places you need support most, on walks with sessions for pups, adolescents and adult dogs. 1-1 Training & Behaviour Support - we have a few limited slots available throughout February Whether you’re building confidence, working through challenges, or just want to give your dog something they truly love, there’s something here for you all With supportive WhatsApp communities built for owners to connect, share the highs and lows of dog ownership and find out first what’s next … it’s the place to be! if your struggling to know what suits your dog drop us a message to chat about the best option for your dog or if you’d like to join our WhatsApp communities drop us a message 💚
January has absolutely flown by at the rate of knots… even though it somehow also feels like the longest month ever 😅 Behind the scenes it’s been a huge one for us alongside our usual pet care services, with so many exciting things happening! Our Scent Scouts have had an incredibly busy month, making amazing progress not just in their scent detection work, but in other behaviours too.. So much of this has come organically through attending sessions and for some of our dogs with big emotions, we’ve even seen new friendships forming (both canine and human!). It’s been genuinely so rewarding to see and hear everyone’s feedback! And now… February is JAM-PACKED and honestly, I’m buzzing! Scent Scouts have loads coming up including a Valentine’s event ❤️ Our re-launched LEASH & LEARN service is kicking off in first week of February! Starting with a sold-out pub workshop (next date coming ASAP! - sorry if you’ve missed out) Followed by Leash & Learn puppy, adult & mixed classes Which is perfect for those who are struggling on walks and need that extra support in those places you visit with your dog! WANT to join us? Drop us a DM to join any of our up and coming sessions. Let’s Make it a memorable February 🚀🐾
Have you ever taken your dog to a class where they absolutely smashed it? Focused. Listening. Doing all the things you asked (with a bit of persuasion)… Then you head out on a walk and suddenly you’re questioning every life choice you’ve ever made 😅 As trainers, we hear this all the time. Dogs can look brilliant at home, in the garden, or even in class. But when it really matters on a walk, around other dogs, people, smells, and actual life everything seems to fall apart. Pulling. Ignoring you. Selective hearing. And in the moment, it can feel frustrating, embarrassing, or just plain exhausting. That gap is exactly why we’re bringing back Leash & Learn. These sessions are designed to bridge the space between your dog knowing what you’re asking and being able to do it around real-world distractions. We train in local, real-life locations, the places you actually walk so you and your dog can practice the skills that matter most, where you need them most. Real scenarios. Real distractions. And us by your side to guide you through every “please don’t show me up” moment. Because walks shouldn’t feel like a battle. They should feel calmer, more predictable, and something you genuinely look forward to built on trust, communication, and confidence. Our first Leash and Learn dates are now available to book on our Website These sessions are ideal if your dog already knows the basics and you’re ready to help them use those skills out in the real world. Minus any embarrassment! Would like to join us? Pop us a message to be added into our WhatsApp community ❤️
Our Scent Scout sessions are about so much more than scent detection. They’re about emotions, Behaviour. And owners feeling Supported And that was exactly what we saw in this morning’s session. We had four very different dogs(bandit,smudge,jambo and buster) each struggling in their own way with big feelings. Today wasn’t just about introducing them to scent work, it was about using scent work as a tool to help regulate those emotions, build confidence, and learn how to be around other dogs, movement, and a shared space. Alongside that, we focused on handler skills: understanding thresholds, reading canine body language, and learning how to support dogs before those feelings bubble over and become overwhelming. I am so incredibly proud not only of every single dog today, but of their owners too. Some arrived feeling anxious about vocalising or joining a group for the very first time… and they showed up anyway. Open, committed, and willing to learn. That takes courage and it makes all the difference. 🐾💛 If your feeling nervous and would like to join a class with a supportive community pop us a message with you and your dog’s name and number to join today ❤️
Every session starts with the same question…�What does this dog (and family) in front of us need? Between our regular walks, check-ins, and scent scout fun, me and Millie have been busy finishing up training packages and starting dogs on their journey to a more fulfilling 2026. Here’s a little glimpse of the behaviours we’ve been supporting recently Gus a rescue finding his feet. We focused on lead walking, frustration, and helping him settle those big emotions around other dogs. Little Murphy, what a poppet! This clever pup has been set up for success with settling protocols, recall, and important puppy games to keep that busy mind occupied. Mika an anxious girly who’s scared of the car, meaning she can’t make it to scent scout sessions… so we brought scent work to her! And wow—she absolutely smashed it, showing an incredible memory for her hides. She was joined by her gorgeous sibling, who couldn’t resist getting involved too 🐶💕 Tixie joined us for support with handling, recall and safety protocol this little one smashed her first session with place training, recall. Tula full of exuberant enthusiasm after some time apart! We worked on managing arousal levels and lead walking, and it was so lovely to see her again ❤️ Dottie wrapping up her puppy package with recall training, and she absolutely nailed it. We also introduced a new garden protocol to help when those ears like to switch off 🤣 Enda kicked off their package with scent work, safety protocols, and calming activities designed to challenge and channel all that energy. Goose started scent scouts with a solo session, alongside loose lead walking for this little bundle of joy ❤️ What an absolutely cracking start to the year! If your dog needs confidence, calm, or an outlet for their energy, let’s talk!
So many owners tell us the same thing before they start training, classes, or workshops: “I’m nervous… what if my dog shows me up?” And honestly? That feeling is completely normal. Asking for support or attending a class you haven’t tried before can feel scary, especially if you’ve experienced judgement in the past or you’re already doubting yourself. But needing help doesn’t mean you’ve failed your dog. It means you care enough to want things to feel easier. Maybe you’ve joined one of our classes and worried your dog might be vocal… that’s okay. We don’t mind here, that’s just your dog’s way of communicating. That’s exactly why we created a WhatsApp community group for our Scent Scouts and our new Leash & Learn services, a space where you can ask questions, chat to us and all the community, share the tough days, celebrate the small wins, and realise you’re not the only one navigating this journey. No pressure. No judgement. No “perfect” dogs required. It’s all about learning, exploring new beginnings, and knowing you don’t have to do this alone 🤍 If you’d like to start your training journey but feel nervous, pop us a message ❤️
Our very first Leash & Learn session is at a pub! “Why a pub?” you might ask! Well, real life doesn’t happen in a quiet training room. It happens where there are people, smells, food, laughter, and LOTS of distractions. A pub gives us the perfect environment to practice calm behavior in the middle of everyday chaos. Dogs will learn how to settle, focus on their handler, and make good choices even when tempting things are happening all around them. Training isn’t just about “sit” and “stay.” It’s about helping your dog be confident and relaxed wherever you go together. This is the whole aim with leash and learn it’s training, in the environments that our dogs are struggling implementing the training they may have learnt in an indoor area, with minimal distractions, to a place with many. So grab a drink with us, bring your dog, and let’s turn distractions into opportunities. It will be on Tuesday 3rd Feb at 10:30am at the Chestfield Barn. To book here: https://www.hoof-paws.co.uk/event/leash-learn-pub-workshop/ And any questions, pop us a message.
Does your dog well at home… But, out and about in the real world. Everything is far too exciting, far too distracting and if you are really honest, sometimes you wish you had left them at home 🙈 This is one of the things we hear so often as trainers, when our clients finally share how hard things have really been, and how frustrating training our dogs can be at times. So, as always myself and Millie have been thinking… and after launching our Scent Scouts workshops last year and hearing how our clients love the flexibility of being able to book in when it suits them. We realised it was time to bring back something else: Our Leash & Learn workshops. Flexible, standalone skill based workshops to give you and your dog the opportunity to practice properly. Because we do genuinely understand how hard it is to fit everything in, and we are determined to show you how much progress you and your dog can make together, when we focus on the training skills that matter. Our first Leash & Learn dates are now live on the website. If you’d like to stay up to date with future sessions as they’re released, we’ve set up a dedicated Leash & Learn WhatsApp community where we’ll share dates, details, and availability. All you need to do is send us a message with your name and phone number, and we will do the rest.
January is flying by, and we’ve been busier than ever! We’ve had so much fun at Scent Scouts recently, and the feedback has been incredible, thank you all so much ❤️ There’s lots more coming up, and we’re trying our best to keep everyone in the loop! We have one more Scent Scouts session, plus a special Scent Scouts event at Herne Mill next week. There are only a couple of slots left, and as always, all abilities, ages, and breeds are welcome. Over the past few months, we’ve seen some lovely dogs start and complete their packages with us, which means Millie now has just a couple of January slots remaining 🙃 And that’s not all… we’ve got something exciting coming very soon, so keep an eye on our socials 👀✨ If you’d like to join start your training now! Pop us a message ❤️
Channel the energy - creating more zen moments. Adolescence can be a wild phase for puppies. Big feelings, big energy, and plenty of personality and no two pups experience it the same way. Yesterday, I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Enda for his very first training session with us. He’s an incredibly friendly boy who positively oozes vibrant energy and intelligence. That enthusiasm, however, can occasionally land him in a bit of a pickle… �When guests arrive, Enda gets so giddy he’d happily sit on their head and give them lots of kisses 🤣 So we got to work creating a safe and calm entry protocol, teaching more appropriate ways to ask for cuddles and fuss, gently reminding him that snogging on the first date isn’t always the vibe 😄 We also explored calming activities to help him settle and regulate that busy brain. One of the highlights was introducing scent work, giving his energy a productive outlet. Enda has a previous habit of collecting items he shouldn’t just to spark a game, so this was the perfect alternative. He took to it like an absolute pro smashing his searches with impressive focus and accuracy ❤️ With the right guidance, structure, and enrichment, high-energy adolescents don’t need to be “fixed” they just need their energy channelled. If your adolescent pup is testing boundaries, bursting with energy, or leaving you feeling overwhelmed, I’d love to help. �Drop me a message to chat about 1:1 training sessions and let’s create calmer, more connected moments together.
Are you preparing… or are you panicking? Hear me out - this applies to all of us and all of our animals. My fields are saturated. Grass is scarce. The air is cold, damp, and walking through muddy fields is hard work. For Kobi (my horse), this is his nightmare. It’s the worst time of year for him and he really struggles. He hates wind and rain… Yes, he’s a cob.. don’t tell him that 🤣 This time of year hits him hard: * Lack of sleep * Coat change * Food changes * Being constantly wet And the result? He’s broken three lead ropes in seven days. Am I mad? Okay… maybe a little. Has he seen my bank balance and the price of lead ropes these days? 🤣 But here’s the important part: This behaviour isn’t him being naughty. It isn’t him being nasty. He’s hungry, he needs fuel, and he’s trigger-stacked. When he’s in that emotional state, he simply can’t wait as long as it takes to prepare his food. This morning was the same routine as always but here’s the difference: I prepared. While his food was soaking, I grabbed haylage from the barn and secured the feed room. Yes he broke another lead rope. But he was safe. He couldn’t hurt himself. He couldn’t get into unsoaked feed (which could cause colic). And I avoided a huge mess too. He stood there frustrated but supported. This is exactly what we teach as dog trainers: Step back from your own emotions. Observe the why behind the behaviour. Ask: What does this animal need to succeed right now? Behaviour is communication. Preparation is prevention. So I’ll ask you again, are you preparing… or are you panicking? 👉 If your animal is struggling right now, don’t wait for things to “settle down.” Support them before behaviour escalates. If you’re not sure what that looks like for your animal that’s where we can help - drop us a message ❤️
Spaniel Takeover at Scent Scouts! All Scent Scouts were spaniels in today’s session (don’t worry… other breeds are available and very welcome 🤣) The spaniel mums were out in force and brought us four very different spaniels – different colours, different shapes, and four completely different searching styles. What an interesting watch! We were joined by regular Scent Scouts legend Moose (showing off his new bandana) and Sid, and two brilliant newbies Lyra and Odie. I absolutely love how dogs of the same breed can work so differently 😜 It’s a perfect reminder that scent work is for every dog, every personality, and every level. ✨ Want to see what your dog brings to the search? Our upcoming Scent Scouts sessions are open to all breeds and experience levels – whether you’ve got a seasoned pro or a curious beginner. Come and have some fun, build confidence, and let your dog do what they do best 🐶 To join us on our next adventure, Drop us a message to be added to our community ❤️
As ever, we have been busy over the break at Hoof & Paws! Between our regular walks, and pop in visits we have been busy planning our year. If you have joined us for any of our Scent Scouts sessions last year, we have added new dates to the website (with many more planned) Millie, and I have been busy planning today, and been out for our first 1:1 Training sessions of 2026 and we may have the return of a service coming very soon.. Our aim for 2026 is to continue to provide reliable pet care and to offer more real world, practical and accessible training services with a focus on the skills you and your dog need to enjoy many years of happy memories together. We have a lot to share, so keep an eye on the page. In the meantime, if you have any questions or areas you are struggling with your dogs behavior - send us a message.
“My dog just isn’t suited to group classes…” We hear this all the time. Owners come to us feeling frustrated, embarrassed, or even guilty because their dog struggles in group settings. But maybe their dog gets overwhelmed around other dogs, can’t focus with too many distractions, Is reactive, anxious, or easily overstimulated or simply learns better with calm, individual attention. And here’s the truth there is NOTHING wrong with your dog needing a 1-1. Just like people, dogs learn differently. That’s why we offer 1-1 training sessions tailored to the individual dog and owner in front of us. We’ve seen dogs completely change once the learning environment suits them, confidence grows, behaviours improve, and owners finally feel hopeful again. We can always have the goal that they slowly are introduced to a group but If group classes haven’t worked for you… If you’ve been told to “just keep trying”… If you know your dog needs something different… 1-1 training might be exactly what you’ve been looking for. Send us a message to see what option is best for you and your dog.
One of our favourite things about Scent Scout sessions is the community that continues even after the session ends. The messages, conversations, and shared photos of pups fast asleep reminded us why this space matters and why we love what we do. Scent Scouts isn’t just about scent detection. It offers dogs a learning experience, emotional support, and enrichment and gives owners a chance to truly connect. Our sessions are full of laughter, shared moments, and, most importantly, genuine support between every member. It really is a special place to be 🤍 �If you’d like to be part of the next session and join this wonderful community, pop us a message with your number and your dog’s name to get started ❤️
Todays Scent Scouts Winter Wonderland ❄️ We had snow flurries glistening through the sky whilst the scent scouts did what they do best and how beautiful 🤩 it was beneath the trees with crunchy leaves under our paws 🐾 Bella arrived unrecognisable with her new haircut, she brought her a game today! No messing she came with purpose! Indie mum bagged a last min slot and came to her first scent scouts session today, and just like she proved on our special event she’s a natural! We quickly moved her on to teaching her hides aren’t always where she may think (the floor) she’s one to watch! Then we had one of our our legends Smudge he toke a shine to Bella on arrival, usually smudge likes to tell everyone how excited he is, specially when he see me (Jess) he can get giddy! But today he had a chilled vibe after shouting hello at me, followed Bella out to the woodland and followed her calmly back to the car park again 😍 right little pair! This chilled vibe followed through the whole session and worked calmly and accurately searching every hide 😍 can’t wait to see him in his bandana next session ❤️ Overall what a fantastic day we had, with pic of sleeping pups 🐶 on our WhatsApp community is a reminder just how hard they work over multiple searches but how content our doggies are after a session Would you like to join our next session? Pop us a message for more details ❤️🎁
Are you starting your New Year’s resolution on Monday? I’ve seen so many people say they’re “waiting until Monday” to start this year. And honestly… will it be Monday?Or another week? A month? Maybe even next year? I get it. Change can feel daunting! asking for help, breaking old habits, or building new ones isn’t easy. And dog training is no different. But “problem” behaviours, when left unaddressed, can become habits, ingrained patterns over time. (That doesn’t mean they can’t be changed, it just means it may take longer.) As we know, whether you’re giving something up or starting something new, habits take time to build (and to break.) Research shows it can take up to two months for a habit to truly stick. Change doesn’t happen overnight; it happens through consistency. Yet one of the most common questions I hear is:“How many sessions will it take?” “When can I stop the rewards?” “How long before we don’t need to do this anymore?” So why do we place impossible expectations on our dogs? Expecting perfection in one session. Removing rewards too early. Changing criteria before the behaviour is truly solid. None of this speeds things up, it actually slows progress and creates frustration for both you and your dog. Think about it this way: You start going to the gym this week, first thing in the morning, fresh after a good night’s sleep. Next week, you’re expected to go after a long shift. Same workout. Same goals. But not the same energy and that’s human. Dogs are no different. Learning depends on environment, energy, repetition, and reinforcement. Progress will fluctuate and that’s normal. Progress, not perfection, is what keeps you going. 👉 Want to start this year with the right intentions? Start today, send us message. Lower the pressure. Celebrate small wins. Set achievable goals ❤️
Would you like to try something new with your dog in 2026? We have just the thing… Scent Scouts! Dogs experience the world through scent, and when we give them the chance to truly use it, confidence grows, focus improves, and most importantly they have so much fun. Scent Scout Sessions are designed to activate your dog’s natural scent detection skills in a fun, engaging, and rewarding way. Perfect for dogs of all ages and abilities. Upcoming sessions: -Tuesday 6th – 1:30pm | Clowes Woods -Wednesday 14th – 10:30am | Clowes Woods -Tuesday 20th | sniff and search at the Herne mill (limited spaces available) https://www.hoof-paws.co.uk/group-dog-training-workshops/ Jess and I also have 1–1 slots open, focusing on individual, tailored plans that suit you, your dog, your lifestyle, and your goals. Pop us a message if you have any questions or would like to book in.
How often are you actually listening to questions your dogs ask? Tonight Zeus did something that’s not usually allowed in our house nor happens usually, he jumped up and stood at the warm cooker! He was told “excuse me” which is he’s cue to remind him what he shouldn’t be doing and to “ask” .. this means to indicate what it is he wants. He first ran to the mat almost correcting his own behaviour. I said “what do you want” seems funny a trainer verbally asking a dog the question, doesn’t it? But thing is.. choosing, questions, and freedom of asking is exactly how I’ve brought Zeus up and even Peggy is learning this.. our house is about expression of emotions and asking questions. He came back up to the cooker indicating with all four paws on the ground - next to the cooker was his tuna and treats. I picked these up asking him “what do you want” he excitedly continued to indicate on the tuna so I said okay. As I opened tuna he jumped up with excitement I gave him a “wait” cue he adjusted himself into his natural waiting position and politely waited … some of you may think I’ve rewarded the jumping up, but what I’ve done here asked him to communicate with me what it is he wanted and for filled a desire without conflict or fear over his first decision. This is what consent-based, choice-driven training looks like in real life, it doesn’t need to be complicated or stressful. It’s about clear communication between all species without fear. What questions do you think your dog is trying to ask you every day?
Wrapping up 2025 Scent Scouts Sessions: What a Way to End the Year! What a truly special session to wrap up an incredible year of learning, growth, and nose-work magic ✨ �Today we had four teams out on the field (with a last-minute shuffle when poor Goldie’s mum was unwell, thank you Moose for stepping in like a champ!) Legend Winnie joined us today, arriving in style with her brand-new bandana and honestly, doesn’t she look gorgeous in this colour? 😍 �She brought her usual buzz and enthusiasm as we focused on adapting and refining her searching skills. Even better, dad joined her today too, giving Winnie a whole new learning experience and she handled it beautifully. Moose really stepped up his game today!�While his speed has always been impressive, he’s beginning to understand that slowing down leads to better results. Watching him naturally reduce his pace has boosted his confidence and accuracy and it’s been so exciting to see him problem-solve and realise that hides aren’t always at ground level! Little Sid… giddy as ever when he sees me and Millie 🤣 �He is absolutely smashing his new cue, “show me”, as a replacement for picking up hides. This is coming along so nicely, and his progress is such a joy to watch. And then there’s our legend Winston 💛�This was only his second session, his first being a solo. Winston is a sensitive boy who can sometimes struggle with big emotions and reactivity but today? No sign of it here. �He started at a distance and gradually joined in closer and closer with the group searches. I honestly can’t put into words how proud I am and his mum too! �I am beyond proud of every single one of our Scent Scouts and the progress they’ve made. Watching these dogs grow in confidence, skill, and teamwork is why we love what we do. Want to be part of the Scent Scouts journey in 2026? �Pop me a message secure your spot and let’s see what your dog can achieve with their incredible nose! 🐶👃✨
