Dogwarts K9 Academy

02/10/2025

Excellently written, thank you See Spot Learn by Emily Dustan 🙏

🐾Although dogs descend from a common ancestor with wolves, they have undergone millennia of domestication and genetic engineering, resulting in distinct differences from their wild counterparts. Despite this misconceptions about canine behaviour persist, perpetuating unrealistic expectations and outdated training methods.

Such myths revolve around the idea of dogs as inherently naughty, stubborn, and trying to be the leader of the pack, requiring punishment for correction [1]. The original study of wolves and behaviour was conducted in 1947 by Rudolph Schenkel, who claimed that wolves hold a social position, the pack is controlled by a dominant male and female; and wolves fought within each other to establish top rank. This was disproved by Dr. Mech in 2000 [2].

The world evolves constantly yet the human race is still stuck on this notion. Qualified dog trainers and behaviourists are not trying to convince you that the world is flat, we are simply trying to improve your relationship with your dog without the use of outdated training mythology.

In reality; natural wolf groups function as family units, with parents as caregivers. Communication within the wolf group relies heavily on subtle cues, such as body language and facial expressions, rather than overt displays of aggression and dominance.

Despite scientific advancements debunking the alpha dog theory, some trainers continue to perpetuate these myths, advocating for dominance-based techniques. However, the lack of regulation in the industry allows such outdated practices to persist.

Understanding dogs requires acknowledging their individuality and respecting their preferences.

Effective training involves environmental management, systematic desensitisation, and counter-conditioning, with the use of positive reinforcement; which helps dogs understand desired behaviours without resorting to punitive measures [3]. Using modern, evidence-based methods helps build healthier, more respectful relationships with the dogs we share our lives with.

Television has also played a significant role. Many networks promote trainers who rely on dominance-based methods, where compliance is achieved through coercion and correction. While this may look effective on screen, the reality is that dogs often respond out of fear and avoidance rather than genuine understanding and willingness.

Dominance is often misunderstood as a personality trait, when in fact it is better understood as a survival strategy often rooted in fear or anxiety. Punishing a dog for unwanted behaviour does not teach them what to do instead, and because behaviour stems from underlying emotions, punishment fails to resolve the emotional challenges driving the behaviour.

Helping your dog with the emotions driving their behaviour is what truly leads to lasting change[4]. Many people turn to outdated or inappropriate methods simply because they’re often just overwhelmed and unsure of how else to cope with the problems they’re facing.

Today, qualified professionals understand that the human–dog relationship is not about asserting social rank. It’s about creating an environment where dogs feel secure. This means managing their surroundings to prevent situations where they might struggle, and consistently reinforcing the behaviours we want to encourage.

Our dogs don’t need us to be their ‘boss’, they need us to be their guide, their support, and their safe place.

[1] 2008, Position Statement on the Use of Dominance Theory in Behavior Modification of Animals, AVSAB, https://avsab.org/.../Dominance_Position_Statement...

[2]Mech, L. David. 1999. Alpha status, dominance, and division of labor in wolf packs. Canadian Journal of Zoology 77:1196-1203.
Jamestown, ND: Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center Home Page. http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/2000/alstat/alstat.htm
(Version 16MAY2000).

[3] Herron M, Shofer S, Reisner I, 2009, Survey of the use and outcome of confrontational and non-confrontational training methods in client-owned dogs showing undesired behaviors, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Volume 117, Issues 1–2, Pages 47-54

[4] Herron M, Shofer F, Reisner I, 2009, Survey of the use and outcome of confrontational and non-confrontational training methods in client-owned dogs showing undesired behaviors, Applied Animal Behavior Science, Volume 117, Issue-12, https://www.sciencedirect.com/.../pii/S0168159108003717...

02/09/2025

In the garden? They come straight back.
At the park? Suddenly you don’t exist.

You’re not alone, this is one of the most common struggles Cockapoo parents tell me about. The truth is, recall isn’t just about “coming when called.” It’s a skill that has to be built like a muscle.

That means:

🪃 Practising in easy places before adding distractions
🪃 Making it worth their while to choose you over the environment
🪃 Being consistent, even when it feels like it's taking forever

When you get it right, recall stops being a battle. Your dog comes back because they want to, not because you’ve shouted their name 15 times.

👉 Be honest: how many times do you usually have to call before your dog comes back?

20/08/2025

New Dog Training Classes & Workshops – Starting October!

Looking for expert, supportive dog training in the local area this autumn?

I’ve got a new line-up of small group classes and practical workshops running from October.

What’s on:

🐾 Puppy & Beginners Classes
Give your puppy (or older newcomer) the best start with a friendly, step-by-step class focused on life skills, confidence, and all the basics.

🐶 Cockapoo Classes
Specially designed for Cockapoo guardians – addressing the unique needs and quirks of this lively, lovable breed. Practical training, social skills, and support.

👃 Scentwork Workshop
Tap into your dog’s natural instincts and build a calmer, more focused dog through the power of scent. No experience needed!

🚶‍♂️ Stop Pulling (Loose Lead) Workshop
End the battle on walks! Learn practical strategies and step-by-step methods for relaxed, enjoyable lead walking.

🎯 Rocket Recall Workshop
Struggling with recall? Build a reliable, real-world recall you can trust so you can enjoy off-lead freedom without the stress.

All classes use positive, reward-based methods - no force, no gadgets, no fear. Small group sizes, local venues, and plenty of individual support.

Spaces are limited to keep things friendly and focused. For more details, times, or to book a place, please scan the QR codes in the image, visit our website (www.dogwartsk9academy.co.uk), send me a message or comment below and I’ll get back to you.

Feel free to tag a friend who might be interested, or share with your local dog-walking group.

15/08/2025

One small thing from your dog can tip you over the edge - but it’s rarely about that one thing.

When your dog’s behaviour feels like the final drop in an already full cup… it’s not just about your dog, even though it might feel that way.

Life’s demands, sleepless nights, endless to-do lists - all of that fills our emotional cup.
Then your dog barks at the wrong moment, ignores a cue, or pulls like a steam train… and suddenly, it spills over.

It’s easy to think you’re ‘overreacting’. But you’re not, it’s about everything adding up.

When I work on a dog’s behaviour, we don’t just focus on the training exercises. We look at the bigger picture, what’s filling both of your cups, and how to stop them from overflowing.

If your cup is close to spilling, let’s talk. Book a FREE 15-minute discovery call - no pressure, no obligation, just a chance to release some of that weight and leave with clear options for moving forward.

👉 https://www.dogwartsk9academy.co.uk/courses/free-tel-call-15-minute-discovery-call

12/08/2025

Really important info here, thank you Dogs Disclosed 🙌

So much of our dogs’ body language is either ignored or misinterpreted. The behaviour we see is just the symptom. If we want real transformation, we have to go deeper, we have to look at the cause.

Anything here surprise you? Or feel familiar with your own dog?

WHAT THE F? –
Stress responses in dogs

Fight or flight are well known reactions to fear or stress, but these other “F” words are also important to understand and be aware of as they may not always look obvious.

Freeze, Fawn, Fidget and Fool around are also responses to stress or fear and are also commonly seen in people.

Some dogs may have a genetic predisposition to one type of response while some react based on previous or a learnt experience - what has worked before or what hasn’t.

Some dogs will have different reactions depending on the specific context.

Recognising and taking note of situations or circumstances where these responses are seen is important to understand how our dogs are feeling.
Take note and be aware of what an individual dog’s signs of stress look like and try to avoid exposing them to situations where they feel stuck or trapped.

Try to give dogs as much appropriate choice as possible. Look at using positive reinforcement to help dogs form new, neutral or positive associations.

When we take the time to recognise a fear or a stress response, we are able to intervene and advocate for our dogs before the situation escalates or becomes a learnt pattern.

12/08/2025

“Yes, it’s hot but my dog, he just loves it.” If that’s your mindset, this post is for you.

Because dogs don’t get to vote. And just because they will go with you, doesn’t mean they should.

The slides cover the big stuff, but if you're thinking, “Yeah but they’ve got to do something”, you're not wrong.
But what they need is mental work, not mileage.

👉 Give your dog something to think about.
The ideas I’ve shared are simple, doable, and don’t require any special kit:

👃Scent line-up (3 mugs, one hiding a scent)
⛏️Forage box (cardboard + scrunched paper + treats)
🐾Track & snack (follow a trail of kibble through a cool room)
🧣Towel pockets (folded towel + treats hidden inside)

And if you want something even calmer that builds real connection, teach them to rest their chin in your hand.

📩 DM me CHIN and I’ll send you a simple step-by-step guide.
It’s still, focused, and heatwave-safe.

📌 Save this for when the temp creeps up again
👀 Tag the person who needs reminding: no dog ever died from a missed walk. but plenty have from being exercised in the heat.

07/08/2025

Let’s talk Cockapoo brains for a sec, because wow, what a mix.

Part Poodle: clever, alert, can outsmart you before your kettle’s even boiled.
Part Spaniel: nose-led, movement-chasing, emotional sponge.

And then you’ve got your Cockapoo, who’s possibly bouncing off the walls one minute and refusing to leave your side the next. Or suddenly deciding the garden gnome is an intruder and losing the plot entirely. Sound familiar?

Here’s the thing.
Training doesn’t always solve the struggle if their emotional needs aren’t met first.

You’ve got a sensitive soul in a curly coat who probably needs a lot more support than your average pup, especially when it comes to staying calm, focused, and regulated in this very loud world.

Next time they totally lose the plot over what seems like nothing, ask yourself: was it really nothing to them?
Cockapoos notice everything. Their brains don’t come with an off switch. And sometimes, the world just gets a bit too much.

So tell me, what’s one thing your Cockapoo notices that drives you round the bend?
Wind? Birds? A crisp packet four doors away?

👇 What’s your Cockapoo’s nemesis right now?
I guarantee someone else is dealing with the same thing.

P.S. If you haven’t taken the Cockapoo Quiz yet, it might just explain why your dog’s like this. It’s a fun one - link’s in the bio or drop a 🐾 and I’ll send it your way.

05/08/2025

You didn’t get a Cockapoo expecting an easy ride -
but you probably didn’t expect this either.

High-energy? Sure.
Smart? Absolutely.
But no one warned you about the emotional intensity.

One moment they’re glued to your side like a toddler at a soft play party, the next they’re bouncing off the walls because the wind changed direction.

You’re left wondering:
– Is this normal?
– Is it just my dog?
– Am I doing something wrong?

The truth?
You’re not alone, and no, it’s not just your Cockapoo.

They are different.
And understanding what makes them tick changes everything.

🧠 Our free Cockapoo Quiz doesn’t magically solve your struggles (we wish!)
But it does show you where your dog currently sits on the Calm & Focus Scale and what that means for your training, your relationship, and your next steps.

It’s not a pass/fail. It’s a way of getting honest about what’s really going on so you can stop second-guessing and start working with your dog, not against them.

🩷 Take the quiz now via our Useful Links in bio.

04/08/2025

I meet so many Cockapoo guardians who are exhausted, confused, and just… burnt out.

What they often say is:

“She barks all the time.”
“He won’t sit still ever.”
“I thought she’d sleep after walks, but she’s more wired than before.”

And inside, they’re asking: Am I failing? Did I do something wrong?

But here's the thing:

Cockapoos are not low-effort dogs.
They're wired for action, emotion, and are extremely clever, and the traditional training advice just doesn't cut it.

You weren’t told that clever could mean high-maintenance, or what to do when it all feels like too much.

Most advice misses the point: it skips the emotional side.
You give them more exercise, but they just seem more wired. Not less.
You’ve ticked all the boxes - training classes, TikTok tips, YouTube how-tos, but the barking just keeps going.

The work that actually helps?
Teaches them how to calm down emotionally, not just physically.
Gives them brain games, structure, rest cycles and predictable routines.

That’s what I help with.

I’ve created a quick quiz that helps you see where your Cockapoo is at, and what kind of support they need first and it's completely FREE!

Ready to start getting answers that actually help?
🐾 DM me or drop a paw emoji and I’ll send you the quiz.
Or if you’re a click-and-go kind of person, you’ll find the quiz under ‘Useful Links’ in my bio.

31/07/2025

I meant to share this lovely feedback from Mango’s family a few weeks ago, we’re now well into our second block of sessions, and honestly? Their progress has been phenomenal.

Here’s what they shared after the first five weeks:

“Tracy has got us off to a fantastic start training our puppy Mango. Her approach is caring, professional and based on a wealth of knowledge and experience. Both Mango and my wife and I have seen us all take huge leaps forward and we would not have believed we could come so far in 5 weeks. The platform that we were able to use is excellent and we are signing up for more lessons. Highly recommended.”

Since then, this team has continued to show up with dedication and consistency, and they’re reaping the rewards tenfold. Calmness, connection, confidence… It’s all coming together.

I’m so proud of how far they’ve come.

If you’re looking for the kind of progress that feels genuinely doable and actually lasts, feel free to drop me a message. I’ve got a few spaces left for 1:1s and I’d love to help you get started.

28/07/2025

What a brilliant day at the Whepstead Village Fête! 🐾🎪

It was such a joy to judge the fun dog show on Saturday, thank you to everyone who entered, supported from the sidelines, and made it such a warm and wonderful event.

From waggiest tails to golden oldies, the dogs brought their charm, sparkle, and a whole lot of character. You certainly didn’t make my job easy!

✨ The final photo shows our Best in Show - a truly lovely partnership that stood out for all the right reasons.

Here’s just a small selection of moments from the ring. If you spot yourself and would like a copy of your photos, please send me a message and I will send them over to you 🐾

A huge thank you to the organisers for having me, and to every dog and human who came along and helped make the day so special. An extra special shout-out to Christine, my right-hand woman on the day, I honestly couldn’t have done it without you! 🙌

We had a few cloudy moments, but thankfully, the rain held off long enough to give everyone their moment in the ring.