Pawsitive Behaviours

Home
New Zealand
Paraparaumu
Pawsitive Behaviours

Pawsitive Behaviours covers all your dog training and behaviour needs. Providing puppy and adult dog

23/05/2025

🐾 Muzzle Fitting Pop-In! 🐾
📍 Pawsitive Behaviours - 28 Puruaha Road, Te Horo Beach
🗓 Sunday 8th June
🕙 10:00–11:00am

Thinking about muzzling but not sure where to start? Join us for a free Muzzle Fitting Pop-In and get expert help with finding the perfect fit for your dog!

We’ll have a range of Muzzle Movement muzzles available to try – known for their comfort, safety, and style. These muzzles are designed with your dog’s welfare in mind: lightweight, breathable, and roomy enough to allow for panting, drinking, and even taking treats!

✅ Muzzles are great for:
Vet visits & grooming sessions
Managing scavenging on walks
Building confidence in training
Preventing bites in stressful situations

Whether you're muzzle-curious or already training with one, this is the perfect time to ask questions, try different styles, and learn more about how muzzles can support your dog’s wellbeing.

No booking needed – just pop in between 10 and 11am on June 8th!

🐶 All breeds welcome
🦴 Treats on hand
🧠 Hands on (or off!) advice from professional trainers, Abi from Cosy Critters and Sophie from Pawsitive Behaviours

30/03/2025

Are you wanting to spend more time with your dog doing training? Need a weekly commitment to get you going? If your dog is 2 years old or over and you answered YES to these questions, our Adult Dog Classes could be for you!
Adult Level 1 covers all the 'basics' with an extra focus on body language and setting your dog up for success in a group class environment. This is an opportunity to safely train around distractions. For the first time in Pawsitive Behaviours history.. this is an 'assessed' class, meaning you have to show you can complete the tasks to pass the class. You can then progress to Level 2 and then to Level 3
Our next Adult Level 1 class starts Thursday 10th April at 3:30pm. For all the information and to register head to our website www.pawsitivebehaviours.com or email [email protected]

28/03/2025

𝐋𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐖𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝐀 𝐑𝐞𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝-𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐃𝐨𝐠

Loose leash walking is a skill that benefits both dogs and their handlers, making walks more enjoyable and stress-free. Regardless of the training tools used or the training philosophy followed, the principles of loose leash walking remain the same. At its core, loose leash walking is about teaching a dog to move comfortably near their handler without pulling, using reinforcement to encourage desired behavior.

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝑻𝒐𝒐𝒍 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝑻𝒆𝒂𝒎

One of the most debated topics among dog professionals is which leash-walking tool is best. Some recommend front-clip harnesses, while others advocate for head halters or specific leash styles. The reality is that no single tool is the perfect fit for every dog-and-handler team. The best option is the one that provides the most comfort, control, and effectiveness for both the dog and the human.

Some tools make leash walking easier, while others can unintentionally make it harder. For example, back-clip harnesses can sometimes encourage pulling by giving the dog more leverage, while a poorly fitted head halter can be uncomfortable and stressful for the dog. Finding the right equipment requires an individualized approach, considering factors like the dog’s size, body structure, temperament, and the handler’s physical abilities. Seeking advice from a professional trainer who takes your specific situation into account can make a world of difference.

𝑰𝒇 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝑪𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝑨 𝑯𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔, 𝑯𝒐𝒘 𝑫𝒐 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝑲𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝑰𝒕'𝒔 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝑯𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔?

When selecting a harness, a ‘Y’-shaped front-clip harness is often the best choice, (as pictured on Hazy, front left). These harnesses are designed to allow full range of movement in the dog’s shoulders while providing a more ergonomic and comfortable fit. Unlike restrictive harnesses that limit natural motion, a well-fitted Y-harness helps prevent strain on joints and muscles, promoting better biomechanics during walks.

𝑻𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑳𝒐𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝑳𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒉 𝑾𝒂𝒍𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈

Regardless of the tools used, the method of teaching loose leash walking remains the same. A reward-based approach is highly effective, using reinforcement such as treats, praise, or play to encourage the dog to stay close without pulling. Here are some key steps:
1. Reinforce the right position: Reward the dog whenever the leash is loose and they are walking near you.
2. Stop when the leash tightens: If the dog pulls, stop moving. This teaches them that pulling doesn’t get them where they want to go.
3. Encourage engagement: Use treats, toys, or verbal cues to keep your dog focused on you.
4. Short, frequent sessions: Training in short bursts helps prevent frustration and keeps learning enjoyable.

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑰𝒎𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑰𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒖𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒛𝒆𝒅 𝑨𝒅𝒗𝒊𝒄𝒆

Every dog-and-handler team is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. While online recommendations can be helpful, there is no substitute for personalized guidance from a professional trainer. They can assess your dog’s behaviour, recommend appropriate equipment, and tailor a training plan that suits your needs.

By choosing the right tools and applying consistent, reward-based training techniques, you can build a strong foundation for enjoyable and stress-free walks with your dog. Whether you use a front-clip harness, a head halter, or another walking tool, the key is to focus on reinforcing positive behavior and fostering a cooperative walking experience. Happy training!

𝐍𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐰𝐚𝐥𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠? 𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫! 𝐖𝐞 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐢𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝐒𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐨𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐮𝐩. 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐰𝐞𝐛𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐢𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲 - - https://pawsitivebehaviours.com/in-home-training/

19/03/2025

🐾𝗣𝗨𝗣𝗣𝗬 𝗖𝗟𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗘𝗦🐾
Do you have a puppy between 8-16 weeks old? Our registered puppies would love some more friends! 🐶
Pawsitive Behaviours Puppy Play and Train is for pups 8-16 weeks old with at least one vaccination on board. Our classes are designed to give you practical and positive strategies for all those classic puppy behaviours like biting/nipping, toilet training, understanding body language and food manners. The in-person classes focus on safe and positive socialisation/habituation to people, other dogs, handling, sounds, surfaces and novel objects. We also introduce basic cues like sit, down, come and loose leash walking. This age bracket is known as the Critical Socialisation Period, the prime time for socialisation, you want to get it right now!
Our next class starts 𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐒𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐀𝐘, 23rd March at 2:30pm in Te Horo Beach and runs for 4 weeks. There is a prerecording to watch before then jam packed with loads of tips and tricks for getting through this initial puppy stage
Enquiry today through our website https://pawsitivebehaviours.com/group-training-classes/ or email [email protected] We'd love to meet you and get you and your puppy off to a great start!

26/02/2025

𝗧𝗼 𝗗𝗼𝗴 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗼𝗿 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗗𝗼𝗴 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸?

Dog parks might seem like a great place for exercise and socialisation, but are they really the best choice for your dog? We have been asked "𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘐 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘥𝘰𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘨 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘬?" and heard "𝘐'𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘧 𝘐 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘨𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘳 𝘯𝘰𝘵" A LOT. So, let's break it down:

✅ Pros of Dog Parks, especially during a quiet time:
✔️ Off-leash freedom in a fenced area
✔️ Opportunity for socialisation (if well-managed)
✔️ Mental and physical exercise

❌ Cons of Dog Parks:
⚠️ Unpredictable dog behavior (not all dogs are well-trained or socialised and you don't know the humans reasons for taking their dog/s there)
⚠️ Risk of fights, injuries, or bad experiences
⚠️ Exposure to diseases or parasites
⚠️ Overstimulation, which can lead to reactivity, anxiety and other behavioural problems

🔄 Better Alternatives for Socialisation & Exercise:
🐾 Structured Playdates: Arrange play sessions with dogs that have similar play styles and temperaments.
🐾 Decompression Walks: Explore nature trails, letting your dog sniff and experience the world at their own pace.
🐾 Training Classes: Group classes or structured socialisation sessions help build confidence in a controlled environment.
🐾 Canine Sports: Activities like agility, scent work, or even flirt pole sessions provide mental and physical stimulation.
🐾 Sniffaris & Enrichment Activities: Play, scent games, puzzle feeders, and enrichment walks are great ways to engage your dog's brain. Did you know we rent our paddock for private use? It's like a Dog Park but just for you! Find out more here - https://pawsitivebehaviours.com/bookourpaddock/

While we don't recommend dog parks we also can't tell you not to go. A client once told me - if you are not clued up on dog body language AND prepared to watch your dog carefully the dog park is not the place for you. Accidents can happen really quickly and if you don't intervene quick enough the consequences can have a lasting effect on both you and your dog

Dog parks may not be the best fit for every pup. A well-balanced, structured approach to socialisation and exercise will lead to a happier, more confident dog! 🐶💙

31/01/2025

Our next Puppy Play and Train class starts this Monday evening at 6pm 🐾
Puppy Play and Train focuses on safe, positive and well rounded socialisation - including with people, other dogs, sounds, movement, surfaces and handling - alongside basic training and troubleshooting those common puppy behaviours like separation, toilet training and biting
If you have a pup 8-16 weeks old and want to get them off to a great start, enrol with us today
Email [email protected] or head to our www.pawsitivebehaviours.com for more info and to register

05/01/2025

𝐖𝐞𝐥𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐏𝐚𝐰𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐁𝐞𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬 - here's where you'll find an overview of our services and current availability
𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘀 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀:
𝑃𝘶𝑝𝘱𝑦 𝑃𝘭𝑎𝘺 𝘢𝑛𝘥 𝘛𝑟𝘢𝑖𝘯: Sunday 1st June 2pm, Sunday 6th July 2pm
𝘛𝑤𝘦𝑒𝘯𝑠: Sunday 8th June 3:30pm (wait list), Thursday 3rd July 4pm
𝘛𝑒𝘦𝑛𝘴: Sunday 13th July 3:30pm
𝐴𝘥𝑢𝘭𝑡 𝐷𝘰𝑔𝘴 𝘓1: Sunday 1st June 3:30pm
𝐴𝘥𝑢𝘭𝑡 𝐷𝘰𝑔𝘴 𝘓2: TBC
𝘈𝑑𝘶𝑙𝘵 𝘋𝑜𝘨𝑠 𝐿3: TBC
𝗜𝗻-𝗵𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴: wait list OPEN!
𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀: Wait list OPEN. Pre-requisite applies to be offered a spot on our wait list. See website for details
*For all the information on our services head to www.pawsitivebehaviours.com or email [email protected]
📸 Michelle Davies Photography NZ

02/01/2025

🌼PUPPY CLASSES🌼
There are so many gorgeous new puppies around and we have had loads of new enquiries for puppy classes. So... I have added a new class to start on:
🟠Tuesday 14th January at 6pm
🙋‍♀️Email [email protected] for more info and to register
👀For all the info on our classes, including our brand new classes for 2025, head to https://pawsitivebehaviours.com/group-training-classes/
📸Cinnamin, one of our December Puppy Class Graduates. Such a cutie!

22/12/2024

As another year comes to a close we want to say a HUGE thanks to two local businesses who have kept Pawsitive Behaviours moving (literally) again this year
🚙Ged, Brendan and Liam at Gedz Garage in Waikanae - you guys are simply elite, the best mechanics around. Nothing is too much, you speak in language I understand and you understand how important our vans are to the safety and success of our business.
🛞Veronica, Brooke and Harry at Tyre First in Waikanae - we are so grateful for you! Going above and beyond by offering flexibility and changing and repairing tyres while we pack walk makes all the difference for us - thank you 🥰
If you are in need of a mechanic or tyre repairs or replacements, Pawsitive Behaviours highly recommends Gedzgarage and Tyre First We love their work and wouldn't go anywhere else
📸 At Gedz - he was a good sport and took part in our 2023 Staff Do Photo Scavenger Hunt. Legend!

19/12/2024

One of my final clients for the year.. not the handsome guy at the front.. the cutie and his human in the back! Little Charlie has been training with Pawsitive Behaviours for a little over a year now and lately we have been beginning to work through is reactivity. During this session, my big guy Loki (handsome fella with the muzzle), got to be the distractor dog! He absolutely aced it - much to my surprise! In fact, he flopped for a nap at the end 😅 He was chill enough for Charlie to calm down significantly in a short space of time and be able to walk loose lead in his presence and mostly focus on his human. What an amazing helper and demo dog he can be!
I am hopefully this is a step forward in Pawsitive Behaviours ability to offer more structured approaches to training with Reactive Dogs as well as utilise our group training space for one on one training too! Hats off to Charlie and his human for putting in the work and seeing the progress :D
No doubt you'll see more of helper Loki in 2025 👀 If reactivity is something you are struggling with and you are interested in some in-home training head to https://pawsitivebehaviours.com/in-home-training/ to join our wait list. We are back online Jan 6th and will respond to new enquiries from then 🤩

19/12/2024

Thank you Sophie from Pawsitive Behaviours!🙏🤗 Today was certainly a bit of an emotional experience for me as I took this step.

Afterwards I still felt a lot of nerves, 😳🫣 but this also opened up a conversation with my kids on our way home, about how a fear of anything is so real and valid for the person who has the fear. We talked about how it is so important to acknowledge someone's fear and to not make fun of them if you are privileged enough to have someone share that fear with you. It is very real for them.

Thank you again, so so much. I'm in awe of the amazing kind soul that you are. I look forward to our next catch up.🙏💃🐕

https://www.instagram.com/p/DDvputfM8lQ/?igsh=MTk1a3Y0MGZpZXhhNQ==

Address

Paraparaumu
<<NOT-APPLICABLE>>

Website

http://www.pawsitivebehaviours.com/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Pawsitive Behaviours posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Pawsitive Behaviours:

Shortcuts

Pawisitive Behaviours is all about Knowledge, Empathy and Positive Reinforcement.

Whether you are after basic puppy training, advice on transitioning an adopted dog into your home, teaching an old dog new tricks or a total behaviour modification plan, Sophie has done it. Not only with her own dogs, but with hundreds of other dogs in working, shelter and professional environments.

Sophie has studied Canine Psychology and Training and has worked with some awesome dog trainers and mentors. Sophie uses Force Free Positive Reinforcement Theory and totally geeks out on the use of human body language and gestures to drive canine behaviour.

Sophie has two of her own dogs, Pebbles and Loki, both rescue dogs that have suffered neglect in their puppyhood. Pebbles had a particularly awful start to life and her abuse and neglect has made socialising virtually impossible. Pebbles is one of the toughest cases Sophie has come across but she put in the time and patience and Pebbles is now a very healthy and very happy dog. These are the reason’s Sophie chose the values of Knowledge, Empathy and Positive Reinforcement for Pawsitive Behaviours.

Let me share my love and knowledge of puppy and adult dog training and behaviour management, I am here to help.

Pawsitive Behaviours

23/05/2025

30/03/2025

28/03/2025

19/03/2025

26/02/2025

31/01/2025

05/01/2025

02/01/2025

22/12/2024

19/12/2024

19/12/2024

Address

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Category

Pawisitive Behaviours is all about Knowledge, Empathy and Positive Reinforcement.