Bluebell Dog Walking and Training

25/07/2025

There is lots of controversy about crates.

I can see why. Especially when they are used inappropriately, with some dogs shut in them for hours for the humans benefit.

If you've ever watched your dog during rest they often move around and change position. This is partly to help them regulate their temperature and it is vital they always have space to do this.

But for me personally I have always felt it a useful skill to teach my dogs.

There are times when short term confinement may be necessary, for example during transport, at the vets or when recovering from injury. For me it's no different to desensitizing my dogs to wear a muzzle or a coat incase they ever need it in the future.

I also live in a multi dog household and I'm always careful to integrate new puppies slowly to build solid relationships. The crate gives me somewhere safe to feed Stitch so that he feels comfortable and also prevents him attempting to steal the older dogs food and creating potential conflict.

Above all, it should always be a safe space for the dog. A place where good things happen, not used as a punishment.

As you can see Stitch is already comfortable enough with his that he takes himself off for a nap when he's tired.

If you do choose to use a crate think carefully about why you are using one and take things slowly to build positive associations.

My dogs are never in one longer than necessary and it's always for their benefit.

23/07/2025

Introducing the newest team member 11 week old Labrador puppy Stitch.

We are so excited to have a new addition to the family and he looks forward to joining some of your lovely dogs on walks when he's big enough. ❤️

21/07/2025

Gorgeous Cici had her first walk today. We will be helping her with confidence building out and about. She was an absolute superstar today ❤️

20/07/2025

What nicknames do your dogs have that make absolutely no sense?

Bella was always called 'Shrimpy'. As our first puppy she seemed so tiny in comparison to Bugsey and Billy who were adults when they joined our family.

She still got called it even when she had grown.

20/07/2025

I read something the other day that really broke my heart as a trainer.

Someone was looking for a puppy class but were told by several people not to bother. Primarily because they'd been and had really negative experiences, so they left.

But the negative experience wasn't any of the things you can imagine. They left because they didn't feel the puppy was being challenged enough and they weren't seeing the benefits of classes.

So, firstly a good trainer should be able to adapt to the clients and dogs in front of them. You don't just do a course on this is how we train xyz and become a trainer. A good trainer can think outside the box, help those that are struggling but just as easily push those that are excelling all in one class. In the classes I help its not unusual for us to chuck the lesson plan out completely and teach what the people in front of us really need. I've also had puppy classes where the attendees were learning behaviours that under normal circumstances we wouldn't be able cover till the follow up course. Nothing makes a trainer happier than students that put in the work and we love to help you progress and succeed.

Secondly. Do not underestimate the value of the environment. My puppies always go to puppy classes. Now I don't need instructions on how to teach basic behaviours, but what I can't replicate at home is that wonderful safe environment where a puppy learns to focus on their human, whilst having a lovely time around other people and dogs. Everyone is obsessed with the need to socialise, and maybe where we go wrong is because of the word we've choosen. What we should be obsessed with is teaching our dogs to be neutral to stimulus. To recognise there is a dog over there but not be worried or overexcited either, just comfortable.

I also think there is a huge amount to be said about having another person who is not emotionally attached to your dog having a second look. Just because I know something, doesn't mean I'm not blind to it in my own dogs. I'm really grateful to each and every trainer I've worked with who have helped me be the best for my dogs.

Puppy classes can be magical if done right. If you are having worries please speak to your trainers. If we know about it we can help, but if you just disappear we can't.

And remember this - All that training you think looks amazing, is just the basics done really really well. Don't underestimate the value of those foundations, even if you think they are easy.

18/07/2025

Ever been told your Dobermann needs a firm hand?

Whilst dog training has evolved massively over the years, large powerful breeds are often the most subjected to outdated training methods.

When out with Duke it's not uncommon for people to presume he's been trained by my husband - because big dogs need a strong handler right?!

I believe as the guardian of such a stigmatized breed that I need to work extra hard, so Duke is seen to behave impeccably in public as an ambassador for this incredible breed.

Do I use a firm hand? No.

Do I use the word No? I don't. And not because I'm one of these strange people that think it's cruel. I just don't think you can teach a non behaviour (don't do something) so I prefer to teach what I do want them to do instead.

I use consistency, clarity, kindness and positive reinforcement training.

So if you want to have a Delightful Dobermann just like I do, why not book a place on our next course starting September.

This breed is sensitive. They need a helping hand, not a forceful one.

18/07/2025

Due to a regular client being on holiday I have 9am slots available on Monday 28th July - Friday 1st August.

This would be suitable for a 121 training session or any existing clients with solo dogs wanting an extra walk that week.

16/07/2025

Where's Harley 😂

16/07/2025

These are always really good fun! 😁

Fun and Games 2 hour workshop!!

Sunday 10th August, 3pm in Severn Beach village hall.

In this workshop we train exercises, such as recall, lead walking, stays and stop at distance.

We then put these skills to practice in a series of games where you can win points and gain prizes!

Come and join the fun!

https://www.halcyonhounds.co.uk/service-page/fun-and-games-workshop?referral=service_list_widget

08/07/2025

Labradors. I love love love them. 🥰

But do you know the difference between a working line lab and a show one?

For most people, they might not even be aware such a thing exists.

My heart will always belong to the working lab. It's no secret that whilst I might protest otherwise I thrive on being challenged and having to put work into my dogs. I probably even like a little bit of crazy.

With the goal being a dog good at hunting and retrieving they are usually much smaller dogs of higher athleticism and stamina.

They need considerably more training and entertaining. Often being quite hard work, particularly when young.

In contrast show labs are bred for conformation. With more emphasis on looks and less on their ability to do a good job they are often bigger, blockier more laid back dogs.

They still need training and exercise but no where near the level of a working lab.

This is the type of Labrador that would be most suited to those looking for a lovely family pet. And if I had any sense it would be the type I'd go for.

So if you're looking to introduce one of these wonderful dogs to your home, have a look at what type they are and think about whether they are the best fit for your lifestyle.

Both our working labs have hit double digits in years and had no problem keeping up with the powerful fast young Dobermann they've lived with. I think that says alot. 😂

07/07/2025

Dogs in cars/vans at training or events.

It's not uncommon for dogs to rest in vehicles when training. Sometimes boots or van doors will be left open to provide ventilation through the bars of crates or tail guards.

Duke is very comfortable with this setup, it gives him chance to rest during breaks and process his learning.

Repeatedly I find people walk their dogs within an inch of the guard, some dogs have even been allowed to stick their nose through the bars into his space.

Now no harm was done, I'm very lucky that he doesn't bat an eyelid at this, but for many dogs, even otherwise friendly dogs this is likely to cause them real distress. They may feel frightened they have no escape, they may be frustrated they can't greet properly or they may have guarding instincts towards their space.

Please protect your own dog and those around you by giving open vehicles plenty of space.

03/07/2025

Quick snack stop to refuel the Dobermann 😂