The essence of training a dog is not a difficult concept to grasp if we understand the idea that dogs carry out actions based on how rewarding that action is. Something that is extremely rewarding means that they will probably repeat the action and something entirely unrewarding may be rarely repeated or even become ‘extinct’ in their behaviour repertoire.
For example, when dogs chase rabbits, they derive pleasure from the chase (and the taste of bunny if they’re quick enough!!) which means the action of chasing the rabbit is self-rewarding and …

This year Dog Train and Behave week is from 25th July to 1st August 2009.
It is a fantastic week which encourages people to get training their dogs!
There are lots of trainers getting involved, including celebrity trainers like Victoria Stilwell and Gwen Bailey amongst others.
This is a MUST for anyone wanting a little help with training - there is a Stop Pulling campaign aiming to help people train their dogs to walk nicely on the lead - if you visit the website you can register and have advice and tips sent …

Summer is a time when dog owners need to keep an eye on their beloved pets as they can pick up all sorts of nasties. As usual prevention, rather than cure, seems to be ideal.
What nasties am I referring to? BUGS! Fleas, ticks, worms…nasty little critters that can cause irritation - and in some cases, illness - to your dog.
Dogs should be treated with flea/tick treatment and wormed regularly. However, preventative measures don’t always mean your dog will never pick up something unpleasant!
One of our dogs managed to snag himself …

Bank Holiday Monday will see thousands of people flocking to Guildford to go and experience the wonder that is the Surrey County Show at Stoke Park.
It is going to be a fantastic day with lots to see and do, including Falconry Displays, Gundog Displays, Livestock Competitions and many, many trade stands.
And of course, Amy Hatcher, a well-known, celebrity dog trainer will be there giving us a demonstration of the work that she does.
Amy is a qualified Canine Trainer and Behaviourist who also runs Flyball and Agility classes in the Sussex/Surrey …

A new study has been released which shows that dominance training is indeed a redundant and pointless way to try to train a dog, not to mention cruel and painful for the dog.
Please click the link to see the full details:
Dominance Training - Useless and Dangerous