First Place Dog Training

02/11/2026

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When a dog turns away, moves back, refuses food, freezes, hides, barks, growls or tries to leave, they are not necessarily being difficult. Quite often, they are telling us that the situation has become too much. If we notice those early signs and respond to them, we have a much better chance of helping the dog before they feel the need to escalate.

That doesn’t mean we never challenge dogs, introduce new things or ask them to learn. It simply means we do it at a level where they are still able to cope and take part, because a dog who feels safe enough to stay engaged is in a far better position to learn.

www.dogcharter.uk

01/11/2026

Well done to everyone who joined us for this month’s First Place Social Walk with their dogs. Our goal with these sessions is to help our dogs learn how to settle calmly around others. 🐾🐕✨

01/11/2026

Just a quick reminder for everyone joining our social walk today! Please make sure you're organised and ready to head out by 12:45pm. Our December walk is now live on the website and spaces are filling up fast with only 4 left—grab yours at www.firstplacedogtraining.co.uk 🐾🐕✨

30/10/2026

🐾 YOUR DOG DOESN’T NEED TO SAY HELLO TO EVERY DOG!🐾

Let’s talk about on-lead greetings 👀

One of the biggest mistakes I see owners making is thinking their dog needs to meet every dog they pass on a walk.

They really don’t! 🙌

In fact, constantly allowing your dog to greet other dogs on the lead can create frustration, overexcitement, pulling and even reactivity.

Think about it… if your dog gets to say hello to every dog they see, what happens when one day you say NO? 🤷‍♀️

Instead of teaching your dog that every dog is an opportunity to socialise, teach them something far more valuable…

NEUTRALITY! 👏

🐾 See another dog? Keep walking.

🐾 Reward your dog for checking in with YOU.

🐾 Teach them that other dogs are just part of the environment, not something they need to rush over to.

🐾 Practise walking past distractions calmly, without making a big deal of them.

🐾 If your dog has doggy friends, arrange controlled, positive interactions with dogs you know and trust.

Don't be afraid to say NO when someone asks if their dog can say hello!

You are your dog's advocate. You don't owe anyone a greeting.

A well socialised dog isn't one that wants to meet every dog. It's one that can see another dog and carry on with its day! 💪🐕

Remember, socialisation isn't about meeting everyone and everything. It's about learning how to behave confidently and calmly around the world.

💬 Does your dog struggle to walk past other dogs without wanting to say hello? Or are you fed up with people letting their dogs come charging over?

Let me know in the comments! 👇

First Place Dog Training🐾

29/10/2026

In case you didn't know about this and may find it handy on your next trip away!

https://maps.app.goo.gl/UcV4MHVAUGB1eoVu5

✅️A small off lead paddock
✅️fenced at normal stock height so not a classed as a secure field.
✅️Free to use
✅️Single dog use only
✅️No booking
✅️Plenty of off road parking
✅️Close to the boat so ideal to use just before or after a long journey.

28/10/2026

We've had a lovely stay at Eagle Brae even with storm Boelo knocking out the power! in the Scottish Highlands, with Luciano enjoying every minute of his holiday! ❤️🐾

Our beautiful log cabin was cosy, comfortable and peaceful, with stunning views and plenty of wildlife right on our doorstep. We've loved watching the deer wandering so close to the lodge. 🦌

There have been lovely, quiet walks, lots of fresh Highland air and plenty of opportunities for Luciano to simply relax and take in his surroundings.

And as you can see from the photo, Luciano was quite happy just lying by the French doors, watching the world (and the deer!) go by. 🐶❤️

It's been the perfect place to slow down and enjoy some peace and quiet together.

I'd highly recommend Eagle Brae to anyone looking for a beautiful, dog-friendly getaway in the Scottish Highlands.A real treat for both humans and dogs! 🐾🏔️

24/10/2026

Making the most of the ferry journey this morning with a bit of CPD. ⛴️📚

23/10/2026

Just a little note to let you all know that I’m heading away for a few days for a well needed break from tomorrow.

I’lll be taking my diary with me, and I’m more than happy to help with any questions, enquiries or bookings while I’m away.

My replies may just take a little longer than usual, so please be patient.

Hopefully we will not get blown away with the incoming storm!

Thank you all for your continued support.

Luciano in the photo is trying out his new Hurtta waterproof coat for his holidays⬇️

23/10/2026

Sitting lovely for a photo after her very first 1.2.1 puppy training session. 🐶🐾✨

21/10/2026

🐾 Want a simple engagement game to play with your dog?

It really doesn't need to be complicated! 🙌

All you need is a handful of their food and a little bit of space!

🐾 Let your dog see the first piece of food so they know the game is starting.

🐾 Start walking and roll a piece of food one way.

🐾 When your dog comes back to you, roll the next piece in the opposite direction.

🐾 Keep repeating and have fun!

It's a great little game to get your dog moving, checking back in with you and building engagement. 💪

As you can see, I'm playing with both my Rottweilers here! You can absolutely play with two dogs at once, as long as they're comfortable around food together and there's no resource guarding.

Im in an enclosed space here... Do i play this out on walks? Yes I do, and guess what, my dogs do not wander far away as im worth hanging around!

Dog training doesn't always need to be fancy or complicated. Sometimes the simplest games are the best! 🐶❤️

Give it a go and let me know how you get on! 👇