Puppy Plus

09/03/2025

This is Delilah, I see her at NNA Trials often with her guardian Bev Hoddinott. She competes at one of the highest levels of NNA Scent Detection Trials. She a scentwork fiend, and I so enjoy watching her work x

I love scentwork, as it's one of the few canine activities that every dog can enjoy, regardless of breed, size, or age.

All breeds excel at scentwork – It's a common misconception that certain breeds like Spaniels and Labradors are the only breeds suited to detection training, as they are so often seen in working roles, but every dog, from tiny Chihuahuas to giant Great Danes, have an incredible nose and can enjoy scent-based activities. We just need to give them a chance!

Dogs of all ages can participate too – Puppies can begin learning simple scent games as soon as they join your home, while older dogs benefit from the mental stimulation without the need for strenuous physical exercise.

Scentwork also suits different energy levels. Whether you have a high-energy working breed needing an outlet or a laid-back companion dog looking for enrichment, scentwork is a great way to meet their needs.

It’s adaptable and low-impact, Scentwork is gentle on joints, making it perfect for older dogs or those with physical limitations. Plus, it can be done anywhere, indoors, outdoors, or even from the comfort of your own home.

Scentwork isn’t just for specialist working dogs—it’s an accessible and engaging activity that suits every dog.

If you have a dog that you think would enjoy scentwork, we have an Introductory Session planned on Saturday the 15th March, at the Puppy Plus Training Barn.

Just 3 spaces left x

You can book online from the website, or by clicking on the link below;

https://puppyplus.as.me/introtoscentwork

07/03/2025

Very proud that myself, Katie Weston and Michelle Cleary are members of this fabulous organisation x

WE WON! PACT Awarded Most Sustainable Business at Crufts 2025! 🎉

We're absolutely bursting with pride to announce that PACT has won the Agria Pet Insurance Sustainable Exhibitor Award at Crufts 2025! 🏆

This incredible award recognizes businesses that demonstrate a commitment to environmental sustainability, and we're so honoured to be recognized for our efforts.

The judges were impressed with our initiatives to:
- Monitor and reduce our carbon footprint.
- Eliminate single-use plastics.
- Run a sustainable dog training conference.

But what really sealed the deal was our dedication to using our platform to talk about, empower, and inspire people about why sustainability matters. You can find out more here: https://www.pact-dogs.com/sustainability 💚

We're so grateful to White Griffin Ltd for this recognition, and we're more committed than ever to creating a sustainable future for dogs and the planet. 🌎🐾

We also want to acknowledge here that in supporting us and through their own initiatives our members are probably the most sustainable dog trainers in the world. We are buzzing with pride today 🌍🐕

Tune in to Channel 4 tonight to see Corrin and Nat's interview!

02/03/2025

A busy weekend here at Puppy Plus!
We hosted Tier 1 and 2 Scentwork UK Judges training days, which meant we had trainers from all over the UK travelling to visit us.
Thank you to Justine, for delivering the training and passing on your expertise x

Myself, Katie Weston and Michelle Cleary can now judge SWUK Trials up to Level 10!

Now we are looking forward to hosting more Trials! Just wish there were more hours in the day 🤣

28/02/2025

** NOW FULL **

Hi

We’ve a space become available on our 'Clarity in Communication' Workshop with Corinne Wrend on the 16th March. 10am - 4pm.
At the Puppy Plus Training Barn, SY16 3HQ

We ran this workshop in January and it was AMAZING!

Book here;

https://puppyplus.as.me/corrinewrend

In this workshop, Corrine will cover Cues - how to apply them more effectively, Marker training systems, Reward/location specific markers and much more. This workshop is for people who are into the 'geeky' side of training and want to increase their training skills, and enhance their relationship with their dog.

There are 8 places, the dogs are worked individually, so they need to be happy waiting in your vehicles in between.

23/02/2025

Training with the Team Wales Rally Obedience today ready for Crufts!

Me and Prue have a bit of polishing to do, but she’s enjoying every minute, which is what is most important to me ❤️

Nice cakes and Albie cuddles too ☺️

19/02/2025

I love watching my dogs with items they value, the joy on Sula's face when she acquires an illicit crisp packet that's been left on the arm of the sofa, Alys' excitement when she finds a toy she didn't expect in the garden....

Watching the pleasure they derive from acquiring these 'treasures' makes me really happy.

Sula often seeks me out to help her access the tasty 'licks' inside the bag. She knows I will not take it from her, but rather share the experience with her.

Dogs value all kinds of things, very often things which have no value for us at all. Many dogs experience anxiety that those items, food, toys or space will be taken from them, and that is when resource guarding can occur.

Dog's will guard an astonishing array of things they perceive as being valuable. I've seen dogs that have bitten whilst in possession of the most random of items, a lid of a Mcdonald's cup, a tea towel, a tissue, a sofa space, various chews and treats, and once even a pile of sick.....

Our latest blog, Understanding Resource Guarding in Dogs, explores the reasons behind this instinct, common signs to watch for, and strategies to help dogs feel more secure. Learn how to manage and prevent resource guarding with proven techniques that build trust and confidence. Whether you're a new dog guardian or dealing with a long-standing issue, this guide provides valuable insights to create a stress-free, harmonious relationship with your dog.

To read all of my Blog just click on the link below, or visit our website and click on the Blog! x

Still on the fence about choosing to train your dog with Puppy Plus? Why not take a look at our blog to gain an insight into what training we do, our standards, ethics and views, our academic and practical experience

18/02/2025

Just on my way back from two fabulous CPD days with the NNA. Training with fellow trainers and judges. Katie Weston joined us yesterday too.
Sula has worked her little socks off 🥰🥰

16/02/2025

Our Classes starting at the beginning of March are now full, but we have now added another class starting on a Monday evening, 17th March at 6pm x

Book online from our website, www.puppyplus.co.uk

When I share picture of our puppy classes, I purposefully share pictures of the puppies having fun exploring and experiences new things, but sometimes this affects outside perception of what we do, what we offer.

We don’t just put a group of puppies into the same space, and let them run around harassing one another, that would, quite frankly be hugely irresponsible, and could also be very damaging to the puppies 😢

Our puppy classes are planned by a fully qualified and experienced behaviourist. We are mindful of each puppy’s needs, because we see, first hand, the damage that can be caused by inappropriate socialisation.

Every puppy comes into our classes with different experiences. Some have experienced rich and varied early socialisation with their breeder, who planned that puppy’s upbringing carefully, and then we have those puppies who were probably raised in a box, on a puppy farm, who perhaps didn’t see daylight until they were 6-7 weeks old. Their needs are obviously going to be different.

In our first puppy classes, we always bring the puppies into the barn one by one. The puppies’ guardians usually bring a friend or family member along to the first classes to assist with this x We talk about canine body language and observe each puppy’s behaviour as they first enter the barn, we give them time and space to adapt to the new environment, and provide toys and food to explore. This gives us, your course providers, time to get to know each puppy, and assess what your puppy is going to need to thrive in the environment we provide.

Our barn is divided up into little bays, so each puppy and their guardian, have individual space in which to learn, and feel safe.

Each week we build on the learning acquired in the previous week, we gradually build up to more meeting, greeting and exploring as the weeks progress. We ‘do’ teach behaviours from which the puppies will benefit, walking on a lead comfortably, coming back when called, settling in a busy environment, waiting for, and taking food gently etc, but we never put this above each puppies emotional wellbeing.

We also provide optional online support alongside each puppy course, in the form of an accompanying progressive video tutorials for each behaviour, so you can continue your puppies learning at home. Because lets face it, it’s the time you spend teaching your puppy appropriate behaviours in between the sessions that’s going to shape their behaviour as an adult, not just the 8 hours they are going to be spending in our classes x

Our behavioural knowledge is second to none. Because of this, we are able to spot problem behaviours early, and give advice to stop those behaviours escalating into something more serious.

16/02/2025

Thank you to everyone who came to our Valentines Nosework Games today! We had a very enjoyable day, and despite the cold, everyone was in great spirits. The games were tackled with enthusiasm by both handlers and their dogs. All the dogs excelled in distance, even those more cautious canines. Hidden Treasure and Snake proved a little more challenging for some of the dogs, just due to experience level.

Level 1

Distance
1st Sarah Swaine and Dougie
2nd Claire Loizos and Mavri
3rd Heather Davies and Tilly

Hidden Treasure
1st Lesley Scrimshaw and Keyta
2nd Sarah Swaine and Dougie
3rd Lesley Benton and Ollie

Snake
1st Heather Davies and Tilly
2nd Helen Morgan and Callie
3rd Senny Sennington and Wilf

Overall Winners
Sarah Swaine and Dougie
Heather Davies and Tilly
Lesley Benton and Ollie
Claire Loizos and Mavri

Level 2

Distance
Sara Davies and Gregg
Suzanne Brooks and Dyfi
Medwyn Jones and Ziggy

Hidden Treasure
1st Louise Nicholson and Billy
2nd Sara Davies and Gregg
3rd Michelle Cleary and Inka

Snake
1st Michelle Cleary and Inka
2nd Sue Howarth and Mollie
3rd Bella Scott and Elton

Overall Winners
1st Michelle Cleary and Inka
2nd Sara Davies and Gregg
3rd Louise Nicholson and Billy
4th Sue Howarth and Mollie

15/02/2025

Ready for our Nosework Games Competitions tomorrow!!

07/02/2025

This gorgeous young man is Tigger. I first met Tigger many years ago when I was doing behavioural support for a rescue called Finding Forever Homes. He was a very boingy adolescent at that time, who was also quite anxious in some situations.

I also did his home check when he came to live with his new guardians who lived near Newtown.

I didn’t see him for several years until I was contacted around 12 months ago to begin working with him again, in regards to several changes that had happened in his life recently, and future changes that she thought might be difficult for him.

He arrived at the barn today super excited about his visit. He had a lovely run in the paddock and then came into the barn to work on some movement puzzles.

He’s had a tricky year, as has his guardian, but they have worked through it together.

This is why I love my job x

02/02/2025

Level 1 and 2 SWUK Trials today at the training barn! We even had some sunshine ☀️☀️
Some lovely searching from all the dogs! Thank you to Katie Weston for all her support, and our competitors for helping the trials run so smoothly.

Level 1

1st Sara Davies and Gregg
2nd Claire Loizos and Mavri
3rd Helena Griffith and Amber
4th Heather Butler and Dulcie

Level 2

1st Sarah Cole and Chief
2nd Louise Nicholson and Billy
3rd Michelle Cleary and Anja
4th Pauline Higham and Oscar

31/01/2025

Just got the 2025 updated version of our Puppy Training handbook back from the printers, ready for our classes starting on Monday 🥰
We still have spaces in our March classes if you want to come along?
All booking through the website!

Thank you Michelle Cleary and Katie Weston for helping me with the revisions x

Thank you Darryl Owen Photography for the image on the front of the book, and quite a few of the photos inside ☺️

16/01/2025

As I have a bit of free time next week I thought it would be nice to offer a couple of FREE webinars. Both on topics close to my heart, Raising Puppies - Getting it Right, and Adolescent Dogs.

Both webinars will only be available to those who have registered in advance, through the links below.

The webinars will be available through the website to buy after the event, but they will not be available for free again.

Register Below;

Raising Puppies - https://www.puppyplus.co.uk/webinar/raisingpuppies/register

Adolescent Dogs -
https://www.puppyplus.co.uk/webinar/adolescentdogs/register

12/01/2025

A massive ‘Thank you’ to Dog Training with Corinne Wrend for presenting her ‘Clarity in Communication Workshop’ for us on Saturday.
It was a fantastic day, we all enjoyed analysing our own training, marker works and trying out both Reward and Location specific markers.

Looking forward to the next workshop in March!

08/01/2025

This event had been organised by a good friend of mine Pauline Whittaker. I completed an aggression for professionals course with Amber before lockdown, she is a fantastic speaker.
Amber’s knowledge on this subject is second to none x
This seminar is being held in the Worcestershire area 🚗 but will be well worth the journey!

Dr Amber Batson of Understand Animals in person presentation "In Sickness and in health"
Colwall Park Hotel Worcestershire WR13 6QG
Saturday 15th February 10am-1.30pm
Dr Amber Batson graduated from the Royal Veterinary College, London in 1999.She started working in general veterinary practice straight from graduating, but quickly became aware that many consultations involved elements of behaviour, which set her on a path of acquiring science-based behaviour knowledge.
For many years she worked in practice whilst undertaking a number of behaviour qualifications in dogs, horses and cats which became blended in with her veterinary work.
In 2007 she set up her own business, Understand Animals, with the aim to bridge the gap between up to date science and using that in a practical way to benefit animals and the humans they share their lives with. Alongside working in clinical vet practice, her business provides education across the globe regards animal behaviour and welfare, as well as providing vet behaviour consultations for clients and legal expert witness work.
Amber remains passionate about using science to support a pragmatic and empathetic approach to behaviour issues in animals.
Dog Behaviour: In sickness and in health
This in person presentation will look at up to date science on how issues within a variety of body systems such as the digestive system, the skin, the musculoskeletal system and others may contribute to behaviour change in the dog which may be challenging for those living with or around them.
This will be a half day presentation, starting at 10am, with an initial 1.5 hour session, a 30 minute tea break, followed by another one hour presentation then a 30 minute Q and A.
The first section will focus on various disease or injury processes in dogs and how we recognise those and why they can influence behaviour. The second half will focus on how we make observations, either as caregivers living with the dog or professionals working with the dog and use those observations to record and potentially measure a variety of parameters that can help the vet rule certain medical concerns in or out as well as providing a useful platform to monitor progression of disease and behaviour and response to treatment or trials.
Developing and fostering positive relationships with other animal professionals including those in the medical field, will also form part of the presentation.
Cost £45
Booking here (and in comments) https://PWDTSbookinglink.as.me/?appointmentType=category:6.%20Special%20Events

15/12/2024

Lots of Christmas fun today at Puppy Plus, at our last Nosework games of the year! Thank you everyone for making it such a lovely day 🥰

Level 1

Go To Source
1st - Sarah Swaine and Dougie
2nd - Lesley Scrimshaw and Keyta
3rd - Helen Morgan and Callie

Adopt a Position
1st - Sarah and Dougie
2nd - Helen and Callie
3rd - Lesley and Keyta

Distractions and Blanks
1st - Claire Loizos and Mavri
2nd - Heather Davies and Tilly
3rd - Sarah and Dougie

Overall
1st - Sarah and Dougie
2nd - Helen and Callie
3rd - Claire and Mavri
4th - Lesley and Keyta

Level 2

Go To Source
1st - Medwyn Jones and Ziggy
2nd - Avril Greengrass and Gertie
3rd - Sara Davies and Gregg

Adopt a Position
1st - Sara and Gregg
2nd - Sue Howarth and Mollie
3rd - Medwyn and Ziggy

Distractions and Blanks
1st - Sue and Mollie
2nd - Sara and Gregg
3rd - Helena Griffith and Storm

Overall
1st - Sara and Gregg
2nd - Medwyn and Ziggy
3rd - Sue and Mollie
4th - Avril and Gertie

Congratulations everyone 😁

02/12/2024

Lovely to have our study referenced! Sarah Dalesman, Nerys Mellor! 🥰

Did you know that training scentwork can have multiple benefits for your dog? 👃

Scent is such a HUGE part of your dog's life, with their 300 million olfactory receptors to our mere 6 million, and the part of their brain dedicated to scent being 40 times larger than our own. So it isn't surprising that scentwork can have a impact on our dogs behaviour.

It has previously been stated scentwork is calming for dogs, and helps create a positive bias (boosting confidence), but this latest study done at Aberystwyth University has shown it can also increase inhibitory control (self-control) and persistance in repeating rewarded behaviour!

So how can you put a little extra scentwork into your dogs life? Here are a few ideas...

🔸 Let your dog sniff whilst out on walks! This is your dog's equivalent to reading the newspaper, or even going on social media, and the only way they can find out what is going on in the outside world. Although sniffing every two steps may be a bit excessive, do make sure you aren't dragging them along past their favourite sniffing spots and maybe even point out some sniffing spots you think could be particularly good.

🔸 Use a snuffle mat or scatter feed their food! Sniffing is an inherently calming activity for most dogs AND dogs are natural foragers, so sniffing-out their food amongst long grass, or in a snuffle mat, is a great outlet for this behaviour that can even help calm more excitable dogs. You can also add a cue to this behaviour, like with any, so that they are only looking for food on the ground when you say it will be there.

🔸 Play 'Find it' games! You can hide treats, toys and even people for your dog to sniff out, which could come in handy later down-the-line when your keys go missing!

🔸 Create a 'scent-box'! If you go out somewhere, either with or without your dog, try and pick-up different objects from your time out. You can then offer up these objects to your dog later to sniff, so they can either re-live their adventure, or learn about your day.

Let us know what fun ways you incorporate scent into your dog's life!

You can check out the study mentioned in the graphic for yourself here: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/14/3/428