18/04/2025
A to Z of dogs….
A – Arousal Isn’t Always Aggression
High energy doesn’t mean your dog’s aggressive. Learn to read the room… or rather, the tail, ears, and eyes.
B – Boundaries Build Bonds
Structure isn’t harsh — it’s kind. Clear rules help your dog feel secure, not suppressed.
C – Consistency is King
Dogs thrive on predictability. If “sit” sometimes means treat and sometimes means nothing, don’t blame the dog for confusion.
D – Don’t Repeat Commands
Saying “sit, sit, SIT!” is not training. It’s nagging. Say it once, and back it up.
E – Excitement ≠ Happiness
A wagging tail and zoomies don’t always mean joy. Sometimes it’s stress. Know the difference.
F – Flexibility in Training, Not in Rules
Be adaptable in how you teach, but don’t shift the goalposts on what’s expected.
G – Grooming is Training Too
Brushing, nail clipping, teeth checks — all chances to build trust. Don’t wait for the vet to force the issue.
H – Heel is a Conversation
It’s not about forcing your dog to walk like a robot — it’s about walking with you, not despite you.
I – Ignore the Ignorant
There’ll always be someone saying, “Let them just sort it out themselves.” That’s how fights start. You train your dog. Period.
J – Jumping Up Isn’t Cute at 30kg
Sure, it’s adorable at 12 weeks. Less so when your shepherd flattens Granny. Train it now.
K – Keep Training Sessions Short
Burnout helps no one. Two minutes of focused training trumps twenty minutes of faffing.
L – Lead Pulling is a Learned Habit
If it worked once, they’ll keep doing it. Teach loose lead early — and reinforce it always.
M – Motivation Isn’t Just Treats
Toys, praise, sniffing — find what makes your dog tick. Then use it wisely.
N – “No” is Not a Plan
Telling a dog what not to do is only half the job. Show them what to do instead.
O – Obedience Starts at Home
Want a dog who listens outside? Start in your living room. Then your garden. Then the world.
P – Play Has Purpose
It’s not just fun — it’s bonding, reward, and impulse control rolled into one.
Q – Quick Fixes Don’t Stick
Training is a journey, not a shortcut. Fast fixes often fray at the seams.
R – Reactivity Needs Rethinking
A reactive dog isn’t being “bad.” They’re struggling. Help them cope, don’t just suppress the bark.
S – Socialisation Isn’t Just Dog Parks
It’s about safe, calm exposure to the world — sights, sounds, surfaces, situations — not chaotic doggy mayhem.
T – Timing is Everything
Whether praise or correction — if it’s not timely, it’s not training. It’s just noise.
U – Unwanted Behaviour is Information
Dogs aren’t giving you a hard time — they’re having a hard time. Address the why, not just the what.
V – Vet Visits Shouldn’t Be Trauma
Prepare your dog before they ever need to be handled. Practise, don’t panic.
W – Watch Your Own Energy
Your dog mirrors you more than you realise. Stressed handler, stressed hound.
X – X-ray Vision Isn’t Required
You don’t need superpowers to read body language — just observation and education.
Y – Yelling Doesn’t Teach
Raising your voice might make you feel better, but it rarely helps the dog learn faster.
Z – Zen is a Skill
Calm dogs aren’t born — they’re taught. Practise stillness. Reward quiet. Build peace.
