01/06/2026
Things I get asked all the time as a kind and ethical dog trainer:
1. "How often do I need to practise?"
2. "Why does my dog behave like this in here but not outside?"
3. "Will I need to use treats forever?"
4. "Why does my dog behave like that when you handle him, but not when i do?"
My answers are always the same:
1. Practise whenever it is convenient for you; when the kettle is boiling, when you're out on a walk, or even when walking down a beach on holiday. I practise something (a few things) for short periods every single day.
2. Proofing! It is important that you practise each behaviour in different environments in order to ensure your dog can respond reliably anywhere. Build a solid understanding first and then take that out and about.
3. Not to the same extent as you do in the beginning, but i always carry treats with me (see treat pouch below) even now. I take every opportunity I can to reinforce my dogs for appropriate behaviours; those might look like staying calm while I'm talking to someone, walking nicely next to me, or even recalling off a hare.
⭐️ Remember! What gets rewarded, gets repeated.⭐️
4. Clear and consistent communication! This comes with practise. The more you practise handling and training your dog the better you will become at communicating to them what you are looking for. Marking and rewarding them at the right time, for the right thing, or even in the right position really helps your dog to understand what it is you expect from them.
No more training on beaches for now. Back to work this week!
Looking forward to seeing everyone.
💚
