News
What happens when a fox appears during a real-world training walk? 🦊 This lovely German Shepherd has been working her way through our Walk and Train: Building Strides Programme. One of her training goals we discussed with her owner early on is helping her to make different choices when she spots foxes out and about on her walks locally. Foxes are becoming a more common sight on walks, particularly as development changes their habitats and brings them into areas where dogs and people are more likely to encounter them. For a lot of dogs that can look like barking, lunging or pulling towards foxes or other wildlife, for some it might look like trying to pull away or showing fear. Neither of these are “bad” behaviours, and you might be thinking how is it possible to train a different response when we can’t always predict when we might see wildlife with our dogs? As trainers one of our goals for our clients is to help the dogs and owners build new skills that they can use when unexpected situations pop up. For this dog, that has included staying connected with me, responding when I ask for their attention, checking in and learning that they can notice something interesting or worrying without having to remain focused on it. This video captures those skills coming together in a real-life moment. The aim wasn’t for the dog to ignore the fox completely or be entirely unaffected by it. We wanted them to be able to notice it, take in what was happening and then continue with their walk. That’s an important part of how our Building Strides programme works. During the first four sessions, I work with the dog independently. This gives me time to get to know the dog, observe what they need and begin building the skills that will make a practical difference on their everyday walks. Owners receive a detailed report after each session, including what we worked on, what I observed and what they can practise before I see their dog again. For the fifth session, the owner joins us. I can then demonstrate what we’ve been working on, answer their questions and help them feel confident using those skills themselves. It’s about giving both the dog and their owner stronger foundations, practical support and skills they can continue using long after our sessions finish. Because real-world training can’t guarantee that nothing unexpected will happen. But, it can help you and your dog feel much better prepared when it does. If your dog struggles to move on after spotting foxes, wildlife or other distractions, Building Strides can help them develop the skills to notice what’s happening, reconnect with you and continue their walk. Send us a message to find out more about our individual Walk & Train support. Millie ♥️
Is your dog’s busy schedule getting in the way of their training session? We love seeing you and your dogs thrive, and we know how much you want to make the most of every training session (rightly so!). But here’s something worth considering before your next session… What has your dog done that day or even in the few days beforehand? A longer-than-usual walk. A walk with friends. A trip to the fields for a good blast off lead. Dog sports. A busy school run. A football match. A trip somewhere new. Lots of exposure to triggers. All normal things for many dogs, and we certainly wouldn’t tell you not to do them unless they’re not in the interests of your dog. But sometimes, less is more when it comes to training days. It might seem like a great idea to give your dog a lovely walk in the morning before an afternoon or evening training session. But what we see arriving is a dog who has already had a very busy day. They may have had plenty of physical exercise, but also lots to process, triggers, other dogs or people, new environments and generally a lot going on. Then we ask them to concentrate, think, learn new skills and make good choices. Sometimes, they just don't have much left in the tank. That doesn't mean they're being difficult. It doesn't mean the training isn't working. And it certainly doesn't mean you shouldn't come to class. It may simply mean they needed a little more rest before they got here. So, if you have a training session booked with us, have a think about what your dog's day and perhaps the previous few days, looks like. Could their morning walk be a little shorter or skipped for the day? Could you swap a busy outing for some quiet sniffing at home? Could they have some extra downtime before coming to see us? We want your dog to get as much as possible from their sessions with us. Sometimes the best preparation for training isn't doing more… It's giving them the chance to arrive rested, settled and ready to learn. Because training isn't just about what happens during the session. What you do before you arrive can make a difference too ♥️
You don't need a perfect dog to join us. You just need a dog and a willingness to learn together. ❤️ Some of the things we hear from people before joining a class are: “We’ve never been to a class before.” “I’m nervous about how they’ll behave.” “The last class we attended didn’t go well.” “They’re a bit nervous.” “They’ll probably be the worst behaved one there!” 😂 We get it. But training isn't about arriving with a perfect dog. It's about learning together. Our Hoof & Paws classes are about helping you understand your dog, build your skills and, most importantly, enjoy doing things together. So, if you've been thinking about joining but haven't quite taken the leap… 🍂 October could be your month. 🍂 Whether you're completely new to training, looking for something different, or just want to meet some like-minded dog people whilst adding some training into your routine, we'd love to welcome you into our community. Drop us a message and let's chat about what option of session might suit you and your dog.
Last night was our Free Canine Support Clinic, alongside Heather from Wildshaped Free Canine Support Clinic. The evening was spent with a lovely group of clients who took the time to be present, ask questions, share experiences and, importantly, connect with one another. We talked about so many different things, breeds, behaviour, the behaviour and needs of our animals, interactions and experiences with other species, and the challenges that can sometimes leave us feeling overwhelmed or unsure of where to turn. This clinic was created because we wanted to give something back to our community and provide a safe, supportive space for people who might be struggling, have questions, or simply need someone to listen without judgement. Whilst the evening was smaller than we had originally anticipated, it really reminded us that it’s not always about how many people are in the room, but about the conversations and connections that happen when they are there. And last night was full of those. ❤️ Thank you to everyone who came along, shared, listened and contributed to such a lovely evening. We’re really hoping to continue offering these canine support clinics, but we need your help to make that possible. Give us a follow, share this post and keep an eye out for future dates. Let’s continue creating a space where people feel supported, heard and never alone in navigating life with their animals.
TONIGHT! Come have a cuppa with us! At Our free canine support clinic with Wildshaped! Any burning training questions? Ever wondered if a certain things your dogs doing is normal for the breed? Or maybe your sick of scrolling videos online to find 4 different answers which is only leaving you and your dog more confused.. Maybe you’d like some support but don’t know where to go or how to get started.. Join us tonight for our relaxed evening, chat and connect with others! Heather and Jess bring different specialisms, but the same underlying approach: dogs are individuals who deserve to be listened to, just like the people who love them. 📍 The Herne Centre, CT6 7AP 🗓️ Thursday 24th September 2026 ⏰ Doors open at 6:30pm 🎟️ FREE but pre-booking is essential. You’ll need to book your spot in advance so we know how many lovely faces to expect and, importantly, how much tea and coffee we need! ☕️😂 And one important thing… This one is humans only! 🚫 Please leave your dogs at home (unless they’re an assistance dog) See you later 😍
Scent Scouts, our community built around confidence-building, real-world scent work sessions turns ONE tomorrow! 🎉 Honestly… where has that year gone?! Our Scent Scouts & Leash & Learn WhatsApp community is full of celebrations this last week, and it’s so lovely seeing everything that goes on both in and outside of our sessions. Sessions are being planned, progress is being achieved, new goals are being set for autumn and there’s lots of sharing, chatting and supporting one another along the way. And that community side of things is something I’m particularly proud of. It’s not just about turning up to a class, doing some training and heading home. Our community has become a space where people share their wins, ask questions, talk about things they’re finding tricky, share ideas and experiences, share equipment and support each other along the way. And that’s exactly what makes our groups feel so different from your average dog training class. You’re not just surrounded by people training their dogs, you’ve got a little community of people who get it, celebrate the good bits and understand that sometimes progress isn’t always a straight line. 🥹🐾 Scent Scouts started with a very simple idea creating a space where all breeds, ages and those who struggle could learn, explore and have fun without having to fit into the traditional idea of what a dog training class should look like. One year on, seeing the little community that has grown around it is pretty special. And because one year feels like a pretty big milestone… we’ve got some exciting announcements coming too! There may be a few new things coming and maybe even a surprises along the way… 🤫 If you are not part of our WhatsApp communities yet, but curious about what goes on or how you and your dog can get involved? Send us a message with your name and contact number, and we’ll help you join the right one. And if you want to hear tomorrow’s news first, make sure you’re in before 7pm! 👀
8 years of Hoof & Paws! 🎂 Would I ever, sitting at my dining room table, have thought I’d make it to 8 years? Nope. 😂 Not like this, anyway! 8 years in business. It’s crazy. And what an adventure it has been! Did I ever think I was capable of returning to education to become a dog trainer? Nope! But I did it anyway!🥹 Did I ever think Hoof & Paws would grow from little old me, doing walks, check-ins and sitting for all sorts of animals, into what it is today? Absolutely not. Over the years, Hoof & Paws has changed, grown, evolved and, at times, completely surprised me. There have been some bloody hard days, plenty of lessons, lots of learning and more than a few moments of “what on earth am I doing?!” 😂 But there have also been SO many incredible moments. Dogs who have grown in confidence. Owners who have found their feet. Clients who have trusted us with their animals year after year. Those who allowed us into their lives, those we’ve hugged after a loss and those we’ve celebrated with a new arrival, from friendships, collaborations, our amazing team, our classes and all the little moments in between. And honestly, I’m bloody proud. Proud of how far Hoof & Paws has come. Proud that I took that little leap from an idea at my dining room table and actually went for it. And incredibly grateful to every single person who has supported us along the way. ❤️ So here we are… Chapter 8 of Hoof & Paws. 🥂 I have absolutely no idea what the next 8 years will look like… But if they’re anything like the first 8, I’m very excited to find out. ❤️
They don’t have to be best friends… they just need to learn how to be around each other. Last night we had Rusty, Nelson and Sully out on our Leash and Learn session and honestly, this is exactly why we love group training! ❤️ Three dogs. Different ages. Different breeds. Different sizes. Different personalities. And all learning the same important lesson… How to calmly share a space with other dogs. With the right guidance, plenty of space and lots of consistent practice, dogs can learn that being around other dogs doesn’t always mean they need to interact, play or get involved. Sometimes, calmly carrying on with their own thing is the biggest win. And those little moments of progress? They’re what it’s all about. If you want your dog to feel more confident and settled around other dogs. Pop us a message and we’ll tell you more about our group sessions or the right training pathway for you and your dog.
How is it already the middle of September?! Honestly, I LOVE this time of year. Cooler days, muddy walks, leaves everywhere… and if you’re a Scent Scouts regular, you’ll know I’m very happy about the leaves 😂 There’s also quite a lot happening behind the scenes at Hoof & Paws this month because… WE TURN 8! 🎉 I know I may have mentioned it once or twice! Yep, 8 years of Hoof & Paws 🥹 And then on 23rd September, we’ll also be celebrating ONE YEAR of Scent Scouts! I genuinely can’t believe it’s been a whole year since we launched it. What started as a little idea has turned into such a lovely community, and I’m so proud of what we’ve created! We’ve got a few more classes happening throughout September, as well as our FREE Canine Support Clinic with Heather from Wildshaped. So if you’ve been thinking about joining Scent Scouts, Leash & Learn, or coming along to the clinic, give us a message! We’d love to have you with us. ❤️
Why Hoof & Paws? ❤️ Why the name? Well, that’s simple… When I decided to set up Hoof & Paws 8 years ago, yes, my little Bella (pictured) was at the forefront of my mind, but so were all the other species I’d spent my life surrounded by. I’ve always been around animals. I knew I didn’t want to sit behind a desk, I wanted to be with animals. But I also knew I didn’t trust many people to care for animals in the way I did, day in and day out. I’ve now been professionally caring for other people’s pets for 16 years, and it’s easy to forget, as Hoof & Paws turns 8 next week, just how it all started… “Would you poo pick my field for me whilst I’m at work?” To… “Would you ride my horse a couple of times a week?” To… “Would you walk my dog?” To… “I’m putting the dog in kennels whilst I’m away, will you have the horse?” To me asking… “Why don’t I look after both at your yard?” Then others on the yards I worked at started asking me to do the same. Then someone else said: “Jess… would you run my yard whilst I’m away? And whilst you’re there, care for my other animals?” And that’s how it grew. I already had multiple species at home, so when the time came to create Hoof & Paws, I knew I didn’t just want dogs like my Bella to have a place. I wanted to create a company that cared not only for dogs, but for all species. I worked hard to create a service that could make adjustments for animals who struggled, who needed more time, more understanding and more connection before trust was built. Today, we’ve been incredibly lucky to have cared for hundreds of animals and helped 100s more through their training journeys. As we enter our 8th year next week, I’ve been reflecting on how much we’ve grown, the highs and the lows, and the things I’m incredibly proud of as well as those yet to come! But most of all, I’m reflecting on the love we’ve shared for every single animal we’ve had the privilege of meeting. So here’s to the next chapter of Hoof & Paws! And if you’re reading this and you’ve been part of our journey in any way, thank you for helping us get here. I’d love to hear from some of you… How did you first find Hoof & Paws? 👇
“Can I do a mix of the services at once?” This week I’ve had several of our free discovery calls with new clients. During these calls, we have a chance to find out what’s happening, what support you’d like, and discuss which of our services may be suitable for you and, most importantly, your individual dog. The suggestion may be one-to-ones It may be Walk & Train Or it may be joining one of our classes. But what if more than one option could benefit your dog? 🤔 This has actually come up a few times over the last month. Some clients have decided to start with one option and then move onto another later on, once they feel ready. But yesterday I was asked: “Can I do a mix of the services at once?” And the answer was absolutely! 🙌🏻 For this particular dog, a mixture of services was suitable and actually offered some really lovely benefits. Each service can give your dog something slightly different. One-to-ones: Give us the opportunity to really focus on the individual client and their dog, their needs, emotions and the skills that will help them in everyday life. Walk & Train: Gives us the opportunity to build and practise those foundations out in the real world, where distractions, different environments and everyday life come into play, while giving you support and guidance to continue those skills together. Classes: We have two different class options, and both give you and your dog the opportunity to learn together, practise around other teams and build confidence in a supportive environment. Sometimes your dog might benefit from one of these, Sometimes they might benefit from a combination. And sometimes what works for your dog right now might change over time and that’s completely okay. ❤️ There’s no tick-box approach at Hoof & Paws. We want to look at the dog in front of us, what they need, what you need as their owner, and what will genuinely be useful for your lives together. So if you’ve been looking at our services thinking “I’m not sure which one is right for us”, that’s exactly what our free discovery calls are for. Want to chat about what could work for you? Drop us a message to arrange your free discovery call.
Does your dog ever make you think… “Why won’t you just listen to me?!” 😂 You ask them to sit… they stare at you. You call them back… suddenly they’ve forgotten their name. You’re out for a lovely walk when they spot another dog, squirrel or interesting smell and apparently, you no longer exist! Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Sometimes it can feel like you’re doing everything you’re supposed to. You’ve got the treats/reward but somehow your dog still seems to have a mind of their own. And the truth is, training isn’t about having a “perfect” dog. It’s about understanding your dog, learning how they communicate, and finding the right ways to help them make better choices. Whether you’ve got a new puppy who is just starting out, a teenage dog who seems to have suddenly forgotten everything they’ve learned, or an older dog with a few behaviours you’d love some help with, we’re here to support you. ❤️ We offer training options to all different dogs, different needs and different lifestyles, including: 🐾 Puppy training & foundations 🐾 Obedience & everyday life skills 🐾 Recall training 🐾 Loose-lead walking 🐾 Reactivity & anxious dogs 🐾 children 🐾 Group training & more Because every dog is different, and what works for one won’t necessarily work for another we have different training options. Our aim is to give you the knowledge, confidence and practical tools to make everyday life with your dog easier from calmer walks and better recall to simply understanding why they do the things they do. And imagine the difference that could make… If you’ve been thinking “We could really do with some help,” take that as your sign. Send us a message today and tell us a little about your dog and what you’d like help with.
Two puppy newbies & one familiar face returning at Scent Scouts Tonight We welcomed two brand-new faces to class this week, alongside a familiar face making their return and what a lovely session it was! Always feels me with joy meeting new people, new dogs and getting to know each individual personality. We give them time.�We listen to what they’re telling us.�We work at their pace.�And we celebrate the little wins along the way. 🥹 Whether you’re joining us for the very first time or coming back after a little break, there’s no pressure to have your dog “perfect” before you arrive. You and your dog are welcome exactly as you are. And honestly? Watching those little moments of confidence start to appear is one of our favourite parts of what we do, and that’s exactly what we saw tonight! Thinking about joining us? Drop us a message and we’ll happily chat about which class might be the best fit for you and your dog.
Starting September off with a bang at Scent Scouts this week! We had 8 teams join us across 2 fantastic sessions, and half of those dogs were completely new to Scent Scouts! 🥰 But what makes us even prouder? 6 of our 8 dogs are labelled as “reactive”. And whilst they may share that label, they are all completely different. Different triggers.�Different emotions.�Different ways of communicating those emotions.�Different needs. And that’s exactly why we don’t believe in a “one size fits all” approach to training. This week wasn’t about expecting every dog to behave the same or simply getting them to “work around” their triggers. It was about exploring their emotions, listening to what each individual dog was telling us, and working alongside their owners to understand what their dog needs and how we can support them. Scent work gives us such a wonderful opportunity to build confidence, create positive experiences and allow dogs to use their brains and their incredible noses in a way that feels good for them. And perhaps one of the best things about Scent Scouts? Nobody is doing this alone. 🥹 We have a community of owners who understand that progress isn’t always linear, who celebrate the little wins, support each other through the harder moments and genuinely want the best for every dog in the room. 8 teams.�6 labelled reactive.�8 completely individual dogs. And every single one of them deserves the opportunity to learn, explore and enjoy themselves without being defined by a label. Fancy joining us? Whether your dog is confident, social butterfly, nervous, easily overwhelmed or labelled “reactive”, we'd love to hear from you. If you think Scent Scouts could be a good fit for you and your dog, send us a message and get in touch about joining us! What a way to start September!
Why we don’t just offer support at our training classes… Because training doesn’t only happen when you walk through the door to class. It happens on the walk that didn’t quite go to plan. It happens when your dog does something you’ve been working towards for weeks and you’re SO proud you could burst. 🥹 It happens when you’re stood wondering “What on earth do I do now?” And sometimes, it happens when you just need someone to say, “Yep, we’ve been there too.” That’s why all of our class members have access to our WhatsApp community. 💚 A space where you can ask questions, share the wins, talk through the tricky moments and get support between sessions. And it’s not just our class clients. Our 1:1 clients also have message support between their sessions. Because we know life doesn’t conveniently wait until your next training session to throw something at you! Something happened on a walk? Message us. Not sure how to approach something at home? Message us. Had a HUGE win? Tell us! We want to celebrate it with you. 🎉 Need a little education or guidance to understand why your dog is doing something? We’re there. For us, training is about so much more than teaching your dog a few behaviours for an hour a week. It’s about helping you and your dog build understanding, confidence and connection in real life. And that support shouldn’t stop when the session ends. You’re not just booking a training session with Hoof & Paws. You’re getting a support system along the way too.
Not every lesson is about making friends… sometimes it’s simply learning to feel comfortable sharing the environment with other beings. Today’s Leash & Learn session with Ted and Fred was a lovely reminder of just how important coexistence is. Both boys are overseas rescues, from different families, and are each learning to navigate a different way of living here. For some dogs, that can mean learning that they don’t need to interact with everything around them. They can simply notice, process, and carry on. Sometimes the goal is much simpler: ✨ Being able to notice another dog without becoming overwhelmed. ✨ Feeling comfortable sharing the same space. ✨ Understanding that they can move away when they need to. ✨ Learning that not every interaction needs to become a greeting or a game. These are the quiet skills that help dogs feel more confident in everyday life. And today, Ted and Fred gave us some lovely examples of just that calmly existing alongside each other, taking in their surroundings and learning at their own pace. Progress isn’t always about what a dog does. Sometimes, it’s about what they’re learning they don’t need to do. If you would like to learn more about our leash and learns pop us a message.
THE CANINE SUPPORT CLINIC IS BACK! Back in June, we ran our very first FREE Canine Support Clinic alongside the wonderful Wildshaped and the feedback was incredible! 🥹 We were even asked at the end, “When’s the next one?”… So we made it happen! Thursday 24th September 2026 sees the return of our FREE Canine Support Clinic, brought to you by Wildshaped & Hoof&Paws So, what’s it all about? Maybe you’ve got a burning question about your dog that you’ve been sitting on. Maybe you’re wondering what support do I actually need? Perhaps you’d love to spend an evening learning more about dogs, behaviour and training. Or maybe you’d simply like the chance to meet trainers, ask questions and get a feel for us before deciding whether you’d like further support. This evening is for you. There’ll be a live Q&A where we can properly work through your questions, and if you’d rather stay anonymous, you can send your question in beforehand. There’ll also be plenty of time to chat with us (and other dog owners who might be in the same boat!) over a cuppa ☕️ And if there’s something you’d prefer to talk about privately, there’ll be the option of a one-to-one chat at the end of the evening too. Heather and Jess bring different specialisms, but the same underlying approach: dogs are individuals who deserve to be listened to, just like the people who love them. 📍 The Herne Centre, CT6 7AP 🗓️ Thursday 24th September 2026 ⏰ Doors open at 6:30pm 🎟️ FREE but pre-booking is essential. You’ll need to book your spot in advance so we know how many lovely faces to expect and, importantly, how much tea and coffee we need! ☕️😂 And one important thing… This one is humans only! 🚫 Please leave your dogs at home (unless they’re an assistance dog), so you can relax, chat and ask questions without worrying about what your dog might be getting up to. Want to come along? Message either Wildshaped or Hoof&Paws for the sign-up link. We can’t wait to see you there!
Sometimes the biggest wins look like… nothing happened. One of my 1-1 clients recently had a park trip that probably wouldn’t look like a huge training achievement to someone watching from the outside. There were children playing.�Dogs walking past.�Ducks nearby.�Lots going on around them. And what happened? They relaxed. They watched what was happening around them without feeling like they needed to do anything. They were able to take in their surroundings, stay connected with their owner and simply enjoy being in the park. And honestly, that might sound a little boring. But it was a BIG win. ❤️ Because success isn’t always a perfect heel, an impressive trick or a dog ignoring every distraction. Sometimes success is your dog being able to say: "I see it… but I’m okay." That ability to settle and feel safe in an environment full of things that could have been difficult is exactly what we’re working towards. And these are the moments I love as a trainer because they show that all those small, sometimes boring-looking pieces of training are starting to come together. If your dog finds certain environments, people, dogs or distractions difficult, you don’t have to aim for perfection overnight. Let’s work towards those little moments where your dog can just… be a dog. If you’d like support with your dog’s confidence, focus or reactions around their triggers, drop us a message and let’s chat about how training could help.
Training with us looks a little different 👀 Because we don’t believe you should turn up to a training class and simply work through a set programme because that’s what week 4 says you should be doing. Your dog isn’t a textbook. And your struggles aren’t always going to neatly fit into a lesson plan. So our classes give you opportunities to work on the things that actually matter to you. Maybe your dog is struggling around other dogs. Maybe you want to work on their focus around distractions. Maybe walks have become hard work and you need somewhere safe to practise. Maybe you’ve got a puppy experiencing everything for the first time. Or maybe something happened this week and you think.. “I really need help with this.” Bring it with you. We work with what you need. We listen to what you’re finding difficult and what you want to achieve, and help you work towards it in a supportive environment. And the support doesn’t stop when you leave class. Our clients have access to our class WhatsApp communities between sessions too, a place to ask questions, share wins, have a wobble, celebrate progress and know you’re not doing this alone. And it’s not just our class clients who get that. Our 1:1 clients have ongoing message support too, because real life doesn’t only happen during your booked training session. Things happen between sessions. Questions pop up. You have a brilliant moment you want to celebrate. Or sometimes you just need someone to say, “Yep, I’d try this…” That’s what we want Hoof&Paws training to feel like. Not just a class you attend. Not just a session you book. But support that fits around you, your dog and real life. Because training should be about helping you live the life you and your dog can thrive in and not ticking boxes on a training plan. Looking for training that meets you where you are, rather than expecting you to fit into a set plan? Drop us a message. We’d love to help. 💚
These last few weeks, our training clients have been full of wins… and we couldn’t be prouder. 🥹 We’ve had few newbies joining our classes. Some thought classes would be impossible. Some thought it would be difficult. Some weren’t sure their dog would cope with being around all the other dogs. But you know what? They came. They gave it a go. And they had the best time. We’ve had clients returning after the heatwave and jumping straight back into Scent Scouts and leash & learn, picking up where they left off and watching their dogs get stuck into something they absolutely love. We’ve had puppies joining us for the very first time, taking in all those new sights, sounds, smells and experiences. And we’ve also had our 1:1 clients smashing those first steps. From simply being able to observe what’s going on around them… To calmly walking pass another dog. To loose lead walking. To choosing to engage with their person. To that first recall back to their owner with a distraction in view. And those moments might sound small. But we know they’re not. Because behind every one of those wins is a dog who has learnt something. An owner who has probably put in practice between sessions. who has had a moment of “OH MY GOD, THEY DID IT!” The dogs.�The owners.�Our trainers. We’re all part of those wins. And honestly, we love seeing them or seeing clients messages pop up. 🥹 Because this is why we do what we do. Not for perfect dogs. Not for dogs who can perform every behaviour on cue. But for those little moments that make everyday life feel easier, more enjoyable and a little more connected. So if you’ve been watching from the sidelines thinking “I don’t think my dog could do that”… Maybe they could. Maybe they just need the right place to start. 😍 If you’re struggling with something with your dog, or simply want to help them learn and grow, drop us a message. We’d love to help you find your starting point.
On paper, these dogs shouldn’t necessarily have been this calm together. “Is it always this chilled in class?” That’s what a new client asked me today. 🥹 And honestly… it’s one of my favourite questions to be asked. This week I’ve welcomed a few newbies into Scent Scouts, alongside familiar faces returning after the heatwave. And on paper, you might not expect the classes to look quite like this. We had: A very relaxed Cockapoo�An overseas rescue who is known to be reactive and nervous�An adolescent who has been struggling with the world around her Yet there they were. Calm. Collected. Busy. Sniffing, learning a new skill and, perhaps most importantly, learning how to regulate around other dogs and people. No big reactions. No chaos. No overwhelmed dogs • Just three happy dogs getting on with the job in front of them. And Monday’s class was no different. Different location. Different clients. Different dogs. A Boston Terrier, a Spaniel and a working Labrador. three very different dogs, with very different needs and their own struggles, all coming together for Scent Scouts with Lizzys group teallntails So what makes our classes different? It isn’t that every dog who arrives is naturally calm. It’s our vibe. It’s the way we support dogs within the environment. It’s understanding that not every dog learns in the same way. And, perhaps most importantly, it’s the support we give to the humans attached to the leads too. Because sometimes the dog isn’t the only one who needs a little help understanding “what do I do here?” We want our classes to be somewhere you can come as you are. Whether your dog is confident, nervous, reactive, excitable, adolescent, a working breed, a rescue… or simply finds the world a little bit much sometimes. You don’t need to have the “perfect” dog before you come. We’ll help you both find your way. And yes… It really can be this chilled in a public class. 🤍 If you’ve been wondering whether you and your dog would cope in a class environment, send us a message. Let’s chat about what they need and whether Scent Scouts or Leash & Learn could be the right fit for you both.
Please be aware of Years recall … however I want to state their recall involves the use of “buckwheat” in their food .. it’s important regardless of the brand your feeding you research the ingredients and take a look at what it is that’s going into your dogs. I usually recommend to clients not only checking the back of the packet but also checking out www.allaboutdogfood.co.uk for more information on the food they are feeding … remember treats count too!
What if we told you we don’t actually know exactly how a 1-1 session will look like until we meet ? 👀 Sounds a bit strange, right? But….. we have our training methods, principles and goals and important information from an initial call. However, we don’t believe in taking a dog through a rigid checklist just because “that’s what we’re supposed to do this week.” We look at the dog in front of us. How are they feeling today? What are they finding difficult? What are they ready to progress with? What will actually benefit them? Sometimes the plan we arrive with stays exactly as planned. Sometimes it changes within the first few minutes. And that isn’t inconsistency. That’s dog training with the dog that’s in front of us. Because every dog is different and every family is different too. Different lifestyles. Different routines. Different environments. Different expectations. So whilst the foundations of our approach remain the same, we adapt the training to make it work for that individual dog and their people. No tick-box exercises. No forcing every dog through the same progression. Just thoughtful, responsive training based on the dog we have in front of us. If you want training that adapts to your dog rather than the other way around? Send us a WhatsApp message, we can help.
Why we don’t have age, size or breed restrictions in our classes As many of you will know, our classes are far from traditional… and honestly, that’s just not me! 😂 With 100+ members across our class categories, we run sessions in different locations, on different days and at different times. And I’m often asked: “Do you have classes just for puppies?”�“Do you have one for small dogs?”�“Do you have breed-specific classes?” The answer is no. Everyone is welcome. And there’s a very good reason for that. I want your dog to learn skills that actually matter outside of the classroom. Because the real world doesn’t come with perfect conditions. You’ll meet different dogs.�Different people.�Different environments.�Different noises.�Different weather.�Different situations that you simply didn’t expect. And that’s where many owners find things become difficult. Not because their dog “doesn’t know the training”… …but because they’ve only had the opportunity to practise it in predictable environments. Our aim is to help you build communication, connection, confidence and safety in places that resemble the environments you and your dog actually live in. And that doesn’t mean your dog has to interact with every dog they meet. Sometimes the skill is being able to calmly co-exist. Sometimes it’s creating space. Sometimes it’s choosing to disengage. Sometimes it’s simply being able to listen to you when the environment around them changes. That’s real-life training. We want to help you understand your dog, recognise what they’re communicating and build skills that you can take with you long after class finishes. Because ultimately, the goal isn’t to have a dog who behaves beautifully in a training class. It’s to help you and your dog feel more capable navigating the world together. If you’re looking for a class that teaches you where it actually matters, out in real-life environments and our local walking locations, get in touch. Let’s find the right class for you and your dog
Part two: What I saw when watching the public made me think about… If my last post was about watching the animals with my behaviour brain, this one is about watching the humans. And honestly… some of what I saw made me think about something we probably don’t talk about enough as pet owners. How much can OUR behaviour influence theirs? At the Big Ca Festival some moments really made me uncomfortable. A couple of comments of the were made about the female cats displaying behaviour pacing its important your aware they may be in season, with some of the males showing increased interest, pacing and attention to the girls too. But there were also two separate incidents involving members of the public that got me thinking. The first was a child climbing over a security barrier into an area they absolutely shouldn’t have been. Thankfully, a keeper spotted it and immediately stepped in. But I couldn't help thinking… what if that cat had chosen to interact? We've seen before what can happen when a wild animal responds naturally to a situation created by a human. The animal can end up being labelled dangerous, potentially, lose its life. The second was a child repeatedly running up and down in front of a lioness, teasing her. The family was laughing as she followed the child, saying “she's following you!” But watching her carefully, this didn't look funny. Her behaviour was changing. Her attention was becoming increasingly focused on the child, and she was beginning to stalk them through the crowd. That's natural predatory behaviour. Thankfully, nobody was hurt. But both situations could have been avoided. And that's the bit I want you to take away. whilst our dogs obviously aren't lions, the principle is still there. Our actions can affect our animals. What we allow. What we reinforce. What we repeatedly expose them to. How we respond when they're struggling.. The things we think are harmless or beneficial, may not be helping them at all! Sometimes we can unknowingly put our dogs into situations that are simply too much for them. And then we question why their behaviour’s changes or we dont like what we see. But here's the really positive part: If we can influence behaviour, we can also influence what happens next. With the right understanding, and the right support, many situations can be made easier for both you and your dog. So instead of only asking: “How do I stop my dog doing this?” Try asking: “What is my dog trying to tell me, and how can I help?” If you're struggling with your dog's behaviour, Get in touch and let's talk about what's going on and how we can support you and your dog.
What’s it like visiting a zoo as someone who’s behaviour-aware? Friday, I had the pleasure of visiting The Big Cat Festival with Tasha. And honestly…it’s a very different experience when you work with animal behaviour. You find yourself constantly observing: How are the animals behaving? What choices do they have? How has their environment been designed?What enrichment is available? Can they move away from people if they choose? It’s almost impossible not to look at everything through a behaviour lens. Regardless of your views on zoos, I think it’s important to recognise the work the Big Cat Sanctuary is doing around conservation and rehabilitation. For me, one of the biggest things that stood out was how much thought had gone into the environments. The cats weren’t simply given somewhere to exist. Their enclosures offered choice and control. They could choose whether to be visible to visitors or retreat away from view, with environments varied to suit different species and individual needs. There were opportunities for climbing, platforms, water and species-appropriate enrichment to and that matters. Because good welfare isn’t just about food, shelter and veterinary care. It’s about meeting an animal’s behavioural needs too. I also had the opportunity to speak with some of the keepers about the training they use, and I was really pleased to hear their approach focuses on co-operative care, positive reinforcement and ethical training. Seeing these principles being used with big cats was fascinating. It’s also a brilliant reminder that the principles we use at Hoof&Paws and that aren’t exclusive to dogs. Choice. Communication. Reinforcement. Enrichment. Co-operation. Understanding the individual in front of you. These principles can influence how we work with animals of all species whether that’s a lion in a sanctuary or your spaniel struggling to cope with the world around them. There were also a few things I witnessed from members of the public that I wasn’t particularly impressed with… 👀 And it highlighted just how important our behaviour around animals can be too. Overall, I had a brilliant day and came away with even more to think about. A huge thank you to the keepers who took the time to answer all my behaviour-related questions. At Hoof&Paws, we’re constantly learning, observing and looking beyond simply teaching a dog to perform or stop a behaviour. Because when you understand why an animal is behaving the way they are, you can start to change how you support them. Would you like to see what I noticed from the public during my visit? Let me know below and I’ll do a follow-up post! 👇
Looking for something fun, educational, and rewarding to do with your child and dog this summer? Our next Children & Dogs Summer Club is on: Tuesday 11th August at 9:30am Every session is packed with fun activities while teaching children how to better understand and interact safely with their dogs. Together we'll explore: 🐶 Dog body language 🎾 Fun training games and enrichment 💙 Building confidence and positive relationships 🌿 Helping both children and dogs stay calm and avoid becoming overwhelmed Whether you're looking to strengthen the bond between your child and your dog or simply enjoy a different kind of summer activity together, our session is the perfect way to spend the morning. ✨ Small group sessions ✨ Different themes each week ✨ Suitable for family dogs and children wanting to learn together Spaces are limited, so send us a WhatsApp message to book your place or find out more.
When a training session is going so well… you completely lose track of time. Friday, Jess (Hoof&Paws) and Jack Fenton - Dorset Dog Trainer delivered a three part scent work session for 7 wonderful dogs. All different breeds, abilities and ages, dived straight in with scent detection something all the dogs in the group know … but we then followed by a go at trailing then onto tracking, Some of the dogs hadn’t ever done either of these sports before. What a ball we all had! There was lots of laughter, amazement and genuine enthusiasm building, and importantly connection and understanding of their dogs. Will they find it or won’t they… of course they all did! The dogs had an absolute blast as did we! So much so we forgot about checking the time! But another remarkable note on paper is that the dogs in the group have big emotions, can struggle to regulate, can lunge or bark at others … are labelled as “reactive” Jess that must have been stressful, right? No! Wrong! Every dog was focused, calm, happy in the community of others, some observed at first and some didn’t waste any time they were there with the need to use their nose! The feedback was incredible and the group was on fire! sleepy pictures filled our WhatsApp group.. one dog didn’t even wait , he was upside down in the car snoring his way home 🤣 If you’d like an outlet for your dog that not only provides them with mental stimulation, but tires them, increasing their ability to regulate, our scent scouts are here to welcome you! Pop us a message to get started, and we will tell you how it all works.
Some dogs thrive in a group. Others shine with individual attention. And that's fine – all dogs are different, just like us humans. Our 1-1 sessions are designed entirely around one dog. That means every minute is spent working on the behaviours that matter most to you, with plans and dedicated support every step of the way. With this gorgeous pup, we worked on calm, appropriate greetings with other dogs, learning that we can't always control the environment, but we can set our dogs up for success. We also focused on helping them relax in a busy environment, Building confidence and making good choices despite distractions. 💙 Training isn't just about commands it's about building confidence, focus, and a strong relationship with their owner. In a 1-1 session, everything is tailored to your dog. Whether you're working on puppy training, lead walking, recall, reactivity, or simply building good manners, every session is personalised to suit your dog's personality, pace, and your goals. No pressure. Just dedicated support and practical training that fits your lifestyle. Every dog deserves the chance to succeed, and sometimes that starts with individual attention. Ready to tackle those training challenges? Send us a DM on WhatsApp to discuss August start dates.
Ever wished you could borrow a dog trainer for a few walks? Sometimes life is busy. Work gets in the way, you're juggling a hundred things, and suddenly training slips down the priority list, We've all been there. That's exactly why, back in June, we relaunched one of our long-standing Hoof & Paws services with a new tweak a hybrid of our Walk & Train. This isn't about someone else "fixing" your dog. It's about giving you a helping hand. Our Walk & Train service allows us to spend dedicated one-to-one time with your dog, building the foundations of the skills they're learning before showing you exactly how to continue that progress yourself. Whether you're working through: Reactivity Loose lead walking Recall Teenage dog chaos .. Or giving your puppy the very best start we can help build momentum when life makes consistency difficult. One thing we've learnt since relaunching the service? It's become incredibly popular. Because for many of our clients, the biggest challenge isn't knowing what to do... it's finding the time to do it consistently. Having a professional step in to lay those foundations can feel like a huge weight has been lifted, and when you join in during your handler sessions, you have the confidence and skills to keep that progress going. Summer has a habit of filling the diary before you know it. If finding time for training feels like one more thing on an already long to-do list, let us take some of the pressure off. Get in touch to see if Walk & Train is right for you.
Bringing the benefits of scent work to more dogs. Yesterday I had the pleasure of joining my good friend, Lizzy from Teall 'n' Tails Pet Services and her social dog group for a change of scenery here in Whitstable. Her class runs with a similar ethos to our own Leash & Learn sessions, and she invited me along to observe from an outsider perspective, show the group around the area, and introduce everyone to the power of scent work. Well... anyone who knows me, knows that if there's an opportunity to teach scent work (especially with a Shepherd in attendance!), I'm there! We didn't do anything extraordinary compared to what we do every week in our Scent Scouts sessions. But that's exactly the point. Sometimes the simplest exercises have the biggest impact. For these dogs, scent work was something completely new. It encouraged them to slow down, make choices, observe one another from a safe distance, and move through the environment using their incredible noses instead of reacting to what was around them. Both dogs attending experience big emotions that can sometimes spill over into their behaviour. Yesterday, they discovered something different. The safety of observing. The confidence to explore. The power of using their nose. The ability to calmly coexist with another dog. That's why I love sharing scent work. It isn't about creating expert detection dogs. It's about giving dogs another way to experience the world, helping them build confidence, regulate their emotions, and learn alongside other dogs without pressure as well as handler confidence. A huge thank you to Lizzy and everyone who came along. It was a privilege to meet you all, and I hope your dogs enjoyed discovering just how powerful their noses really are. Have you ever thought about giving your dog a job that taps into what they were born to do? We'd love to welcome you to one of our Scent Scouts sessions. Send us a message to find out more.
New faces, familiar faces, and a birthday celebration at Scent Scouts this week! 🐶🎉 Yesterday's class was so much fun! We had three great dogs in the class, it was Legend Smudge's birthday, welcomed Legend Goldie back, and said hello to lovely newcomer little Bessie who’s just a puppy. 💛 All three dogs did an amazing job, showing off their sniffing skills and growing in confidence with every search. It was also fantastic to see them co-existing alongside one another, which is a huge part of what makes these sessions so special. We're so proud of every dog and their owners and can't wait to see what they achieve next! 💚 Who wants to join us at the Scent Scouts? Pop us a message to join our lovely WhatsApp community today!
"Reactive" doesn't always mean reactive to everything. People are often surprised to learn that many reactive dogs have friends... sometimes they're even much bigger than them! Reactivity isn't black and white. A dog might happily walk past a horse, have a few dog friends, but struggle with unfamiliar dogs on lead or in busy environments. That's because every dog is an individual, with their own emotions, experiences and triggers. Living with a reactive dog can feel incredibly isolating at times. You might avoid busy walks, dread seeing another dog in the distance, or feel judged by people who don't understand. That's where we can help. Our job isn't to "fix" your dog, it's to help you understand them and give you the skills to build their confidence, so you can both enjoy life together. We have a range of training options to suit different dogs and their individual needs. Whether that's joining one of our carefully managed classes, booking a private session, or simply having a chat about where to go next. If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, send us a message. We'd love to have a chat about your dog, answer any questions, and help you take that first step towards calmer, more enjoyable walks. Drop us a message or comment below.
Could you be adding fuel to the fire? 🔥 Take our gorgeous Sid as an example. He's incredibly bright and full of energy! Considering the breeds he's crossed with, you'd be right in thinking this boy loves to run. But here's the interesting part… Sometimes, more high-energy exercise isn't what he needs. For some dogs, constantly chasing the next ball or high-intensity activity can keep them in a heightened state of arousal, making it much harder for them to switch off, stay calm, and make good decisions. We hear it all the time from owners with high energy breeds…”they are so hyper and nothing tires them out, no matter what we try”. Or sometimes if they are being really honest they might even say… “I love the bones of this dog, but they are being a total nightmare at the moment”. Often, it isn't that they're not getting enough exercise, it's that they're not getting the right kind of enrichment. This is where scent work comes in. Sniffing is a dog's superpower. It provides incredible mental stimulation, encourages calm, builds confidence, improves focus and concentration, and gives your dog a healthy outlet for all that energy. Credit to Sid’s owner..and a little peek into how slowing down and engaging their brains and noses (especially in this heat) is often the missing piece to a calmer, and more fulfilled dog. If you're struggling with your dog's energy levels and fancy trying something different, send us a message to find out more about our Scent Scouts. We'd love to help!
There’s always one breed that has your heart! I’ve been fortunate enough to have shared my life with a lot of dogs both personally and professionally! Between us and my wider family, we shared our lives with variety of breeds from terriers, collies, shepherds, spaniels, bearded collies, bull breeds..lots of mix breeds (my nan had a habit of rescuing dogs in need) However there’s one breed still has, and always has had my heart! It is the shepherd! I was born into a household with a shepherd. my mum & dad had a shepherd before I came along called Basil, when he past, my mum got Jenny was love of her life, she’d even carry nappies, wipes to my mum when I was a baby, until I was about 8 months when she passed away out of the blue, peacefully in her sleep! Then we got Jojo, me and her was two peas in a pod! I adored her ❤️ We grew up together, she was so loving, so loyal and a absolute angel with me growing up, all my friends even those scared of large dogs loved her gentle nature. Then now I share my life with Zeus a shepherd cross, yes he’s different to the girls we’ve had, in some ways more challenging with his mix of breeds adding a extra layer of spice, but he’s so intelligent! What also may take you by surprise .. all the time I’ve had shepherds, I’ve also owned terriers along side them, I’ve never once had a shepherd without a terrier (how odd is that) Have you got a particular breed who’s got your heart? (Maybe even one you’ve not had the chance to own yet?) Comment below 👇
This summer hasn't been the easiest. The heatwaves have meant adapting sessions, changing routines and making sure every dog stays safe while they learn. But then there are moments like these. This is Reggie, who is joining us for our Walk & Train sessions. Together we're building the foundations that make everyday life easier; calmer walks, better engagement, growing confidence and practical skills that carry over long after the session has finished. Progress rarely happens in one big breakthrough. It happens in moments like these. A loose lead. A check-in. A better choice. A little more confidence than yesterday. Those are the moments that remind us why we love what we do. 🤍
🎉 Another challenge unlocked for our Scent Scouts! Would you love to join our next Scent Scout adventure? Pop us a message to join our WhatsApp community today!
They didn't pick up where they left off... they came back even better. Three Scent Scouts headed into the woods today after a break during the heatwave... and wow, they did not disappoint! Did they remember everything straight away? Not quite... but what happened next was exactly why we love scent work. We started by revisiting our calm social skills before introducing a brand-new scent to add to their "brain library." Then the real fun began... More hidden hides. Smaller hides. Trickier searches. You could almost see the cogs turning as each dog worked through the challenges with confidence. To finish, we levelled things up again. No hides this time just a tiny vial of odour hidden deep in the woods, completely invisible to the handlers. The only instruction? Trust your dog. And every single team smashed it. ❤️ Not only did they show some fantastic scent detection, but they also showed calm, respectful social skills too!! Two of these dogs have big feelings, and the other is basically a fizzy can of pop! 🤣 Seeing them all happily share the space and work together made us incredibly proud. 🎉 Another challenge unlocked for our Scent Scouts! Would you love to join our next Scent Scout adventure? Pop us a message to join our WhatsApp community today!
Don't let a few disrupted weeks undo months of progress. I'm not going to lie, the last few weeks have been tough for all of us. Training schedules have gone out the window, walks have been shorter (or skipped altogether), routines have changed, and we've all been trying to keep ourselves and our dogs safe in the heat. I've spent more time than I'd like staring at my diary and the weather app, wondering, "Right... how can I make this work?" Even with Zeus, our routine has been far from ideal. Sometimes it hasn't been about perfect training, it has simply been about getting through the heatwave safely. Now that temperatures have finally dropped a little (hopefully for more than a few days!) it's given me a chance to reset and refocus. It's so easy to let a broken routine become the new normal. You miss a few training sessions, put off practising that skill, delay booking a class, and before you know it, the habits that were helping you and your dog make progress have quietly slipped away. But here's the thing... A few difficult weeks don't erase everything you've achieved. Progress isn't about being perfect. It's about picking things back up when life gets in the way. So if your training has taken a back seat recently, don't beat yourself up. Start with one short session. One walk with purpose. One class. One bit of consistency. Your dog doesn't need perfection,they just need you to start again. If you've been feeling a little stuck, unsure where to pick things back up, or just need a bit of guidance, send me a message. I'd love to help you get back into a routine that works for both you and your dog.
School’s out… but keeping both the kids and the dogs entertained can sometimes feel like a full-time job! The summer holidays often bring new challenges for families. Children are home more, routines change, everyone is spending more time together, and with the warmer weather, both dogs and children can become tired, overstimulated and a little irritable. Sound familiar? That’s why we’re excited to launch our Children & Dogs Summer Club this summer holidays. Different locations, Flexible booking, across 5 weeks and 9:30am sessions, getting out before the peak heat of the day. Each week will have a different focus, but our main aim is simple, helping children develop a better understanding of their furry friends while giving owners practical management ideas to make life at home and out easier and safer. We'll cover topics such as: 🐾 Understanding dog body language 🐾 Safe and appropriate interactions 🐾 Games and enrichment for dogs and children to enjoy together 🐾 Ways to manage busy days and prevent everyone becoming overwhelmed 🐾 Recognising when dogs or children are getting tired, hot or frustrated 🐾 Creating calm spaces and encouraging downtime 🐾 Building positive relationships and confidence Summer can be tricky balancing the needs of both. Knowing when to give everyone a break, how to spot signs that either your dog or child is becoming overwhelmed, and having practical management strategies can make all the difference. Our goal is for families to leave with: 💙 A happier, safer relationship between children and dogs 💙 More confidence around interactions at home 💙 Practical tips and management ideas that work in real life 💙 A fun-filled morning that provides mental and physical enrichment for both the dog and the child! Because a tired dog and a happy child make for a much more peaceful summer. Spaces are limited, so if you'd like to join us this summer, send us a message on WhatsApp for more information and booking details.
Curious about why people ask for our help as Professional Trainers? Here are the Five most common reasons… 1. Reactivity: this can look like their dog barking, lunging or finding the world a little too overwhelming. 2. Lead pulling: when every walk feels like a workout, or you're worried about being pulled over or maybe you even have been pulled to the floor. 3. Jumping up: such a common issue us humans face, those enthusiastic greetings that aren't quite as cute anymore, and your legs now look like you've been climbing in the under growth of the woods. 4. "I've had enough..." not of your dog, but of feeling frustrated, emotional, embarrassed or simply not knowing what to try next. We've been there with so many owners, and you are never judged here. 5. They've seen what we do and want something a little different. Maybe it's our small, supportive classes. Maybe it's the way we focus on understanding dogs rather than just "fixing" them. Maybe it's our fun Scent Scouts sessions or our unique approach that makes us different and makes our way of learning more relaxing and enjoyable for both dogs and their humans. Mostly it’s from people who just simply want to enjoy their walks again, feel more confident and give their dog the best life possible. Whatever your reason for reaching out, we'll help you find the right fit, whether that's a group class (Scent Scout/ Leash & Learn or both), a 1-2-1 session, a behaviour consultation, or another programme like our walk and train that suits your goals. Every dog is different. Every owner is different. That's why we don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. If you've been thinking about getting some support, we'd love to help. Send us a message, and let's set up a call to find the best next step for you and your dog.
People don't contact us because they don't care for their dog...They contact us because they do. The Top 5 Reasons People Reach Out to us for Dog Training at Hoof & Paws. They want to enjoy time with their dogs again, or maybe even for the first time. Enjoy those walks again, feel more confident, and give their dog the best life possible. Asking for help isn't a sign you've failed as an owner. It’s one of the best things you can do for both of you: seek support from an ethical professional. Here are the top 5 reasons people get in touch: 1. Reactivity: this can look like them barking, lunging or finding the world a little too overwhelming. 2. Lead pulling: when every walk feels like a workout, or you're worried about being pulled over or maybe you even have been pulled to the floor. 3. Jumping up: such a common issue us humans face, those enthusiastic greetings that aren't quite as cute anymore, and your legs now look like youve been climbing in the under growth of the woods. 4. "I've had enough..." not of your dog, but of feeling frustrated, emotional, embarrassed or simply not knowing what to try next. We've been there with so many owners, and you are never judged here. 5. They've seen what we do and want something a little different. Maybe it's our small, supportive classes. Maybe it's the way we focus on understanding dogs rather than just "fixing" them. Maybe it's our fun Scent Scouts sessions or our unique approach that makes us different and makes our way of learning more relaxing and enjoyable for both dogs and their humans. Whatever your reason for reaching out, we'll help you find the right fit, whether that's a group class (Scent Scout/ Leash & Learn or both), a 1-2-1 session, a behaviour consultation, or another programme like our walk and train that suits your goals. Every dog is different. Every owner is different. That's why we don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. If you've been thinking about getting some support, we'd love to help. Send us a message, and let's set up a call to find the best next step for you and your dog.
Totally confused as to where to begin with training your dog? We know life is busy, and there is information everywhere online - but the part we can help with most of all? Is helping to take all of that information, and make it specific to you and your dog. That’s why whenever someone contacts us, we start by asking questions. Not because we are trying to catch anyone out, but so we can advise what the best starting point might be. We will ask questions about your dog, their background, your lifestyles and the behaviours that either you want to train or are currently making life frustrating. Sometimes our advice will be to join one of our two classes, to either work on general training skills or to channel their energy into Scentwork. Sometimes our advice will be to book an initial consultation, so that we can understand more about what’s going on and offer some short term guidance that provides relief and a chance to consider next steps. Sometimes our advice will be that our walk and train packages would be the most suitable option, particularly if time is short and life is especially busy. And sometimes our advice will be that we aren’t the best trainers to help on this occasion, not because we don’t want to but sometimes we just know someone else who we think would be more suitable. Our job is to ask questions, listen and to help you find the best option that works for you and your family. So if you are not sure exactly what you need, that’s genuinely okay. Get in touch, tell us a little about your dog, and we'll help you work out the next best step together.
Why ditching the “classroom” changed everything for us. I was sitting down after the end of a class, having a cuppa with Millie. It finally clicked. We loved running the classes, and the results from our clients and their dogs spoke for themselves... but something just didn't feel right. Not for Hoof & Paws. Not for us as trainers. The biggest things we kept coming back to were the space, fixed times, the clients, the dogs, and the lack of flexibility. It just felt... off. That's when I decided to ditch the traditional "in hall/field" classroom. (I was never one for school anyway, so this was very on brand for me 😂.) We set out to create classes that support owners where they actually need it... out in the real world. Our goal was to offer more for owners who wanted more. Those who needed more. Those who feel embarrassed by their dog in public, or those stuck on how to cope. Those who feel alone. Those who wanted more than a weekly class... they wanted a community. With this approach, I knew I wanted to make sure we could support the people who needed us most. The owners with dogs who'd never been able to attend a class before. Our goal is inclusivity. Yes, for some dogs it genuinely isn't appropriate to attend a group class, and that's okay, we have other services to support them too. But for many dogs, they just need a little help to get there first ❤️ Since making that decision, we've been lucky enough to welcome over 100 dogs into our classes and build a community of owners who care about more than just an hour once a week. They're committed to creating a better life for themselves and their dogs. I honestly couldn't imagine doing it any other way now. What's the biggest thing you wish dog training classes offered that they usually don't?
Nervous about joining a dog training class, but know you need help? One thing we often hear is, "I don't think we're ready for a class yet." Sometimes it's because a dog needs a little extra support. Other times, it's because their owner is feeling nervous or unsure. The truth is, both are completely normal. Some of our clients have starting with solo sessions gives you both the opportunity to build strong foundations at your own pace. We can focus on the skills that matter most to you, answer your questions, grow your confidence, and help your dog succeed without the added pressure of a group environment. When you're both ready, our classes become the ideal next step, offering a safe, supportive space to practise those foundations around other dogs. It's about controlled exposure, building confidence, and progressing at a pace that feels right for you both. There's no rush, no judgement, and no one-size-fits-all approach. Our goal is to help both ends of the lead feel confident and set up for success. If you've been thinking about training but feel a little apprehensive about where to start, we'd love to help. Get in touch and we can chat through the best option for you and your dog.
Some owners come to us because they are struggling with their dog’s behaviour. Others come because they simply want to do more with their dog, both are welcome. One of our clients came to us because she wanted to do something a bit different, and because she learned that for her dog, she needed more than just a walk. She needed opportunities to use her brain, build her confidence and learn. Our Leash & Learn and Scent Work classes aren't just about teaching dogs new skills, they're about helping owners see what their dog actually needs and how they can meet them in a way that works around their already busy lives. Combining, movement, body awareness and confidence-building (and scent work at our scent scouts classes) We’ve created a class that offers dogs a positive experience in public that supports your dog's mental and physical wellbeing while strengthening their skills and the bond you share. But perhaps the biggest benefit isn't just what your dog learns, it's the community you become part of. 💚 Here's what Bella's mum had to say: "When joining, it is not just about attending the sessions, you become part of a safe, friendly community where there is always support and answers to any questions. Bella has loved the sessions. It has opened my eyes to all her positive, clever traits, as well as showing me how to develop her further. I learn something at every session." Nothing makes us happier than seeing dogs thrive and owners leave each session feeling more confident, knowledgeable and connected with their dogs. Whether you're looking to enrich your dog's life, improve your walks, or simply spend quality time learning together, we'd love to welcome you into our community. ❤️
Do your walks feel more like hard work than quality time with your dog? Does it feel like your dog is always "on"? Constantly scanning the environment, watching every dog, person, bike or squirrel, leaving you feeling like you're managing the walk instead of enjoying it? You might even notice your dog doing this more than normal, with the warmer weather making everywhere busier than normal and the heat making it mean a routine change. That's exactly why we created our Leash & Learn classes. Our aim isn't just to teach obedience. It's to help you overcome the everyday challenges you face on real walks, in real-life environments. One of the biggest skills we focus on is teaching calmness. Sometimes the most valuable training isn't asking your dog to do more it's teaching them how to do less. Learning to slow down, observe the world around them, and realise they don't need to react to everything they see is a skill that can completely change your walks. Of course, it's not about standing still forever. Knowing when to let your dog observe, when they're coping well, and when it's time to move on is where the real learning happens and that's exactly what we'll help you with. Our Leash & Learn classes give you the chance to practise these skills with guidance and support, helping both you and your dog build confidence in real-world situations. If you're ready to stop just surviving your walks and start enjoying them again, we'd love to help. Send us a message on WhatsApp and we can help.
We hear this (a lot) from frustrated Dog Owners at this time of year. …I would love your help, but life is just too busy right now. School holidays, family days out, longer evenings and just trying to enjoy the sunshine before it disappears on us again. Adding yet another commitment, like training can feel impossible. Which we totally get, that’s why we designed our classes the way we do. We offer: ✅ Flexible Booking ✅ Single-session options ✅ Different days, times and locations ✅ No pressure to commit to the same slot every single week Sometimes even just one session is enough to help you understand why your dog is behaving the way they are, learn practical techniques to work on at home and start making life easier with your dog. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to get help, in a way that works for your busy lives. There are two ways you can get started with us. Already know you’d like to join one of our classes? Head to the Website to see current availability, locations and prices. Not sure what your dog needs, but just know you need some help? Send us a WhatsApp message and tell us what’s causing you the biggest headache right now and we can point you in the right direction.
