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What a strange last few months we have all been experiencing. Crazy Lockdown. Who felt it the worst, us or our dogs? All necessary to protect us. There have been changes of routines, family dynamics, worries, job loss, bereavements, sadness, fear, anxiety, changes to routines, disconnected dog owners, disconnected family members, even MORE freedom, more exercise, high stress, reactivity, being a 'Barky Lungy' dog due to a lack of Socialisation...etc, etc! As a Dog Trainer and Behaviourist, I have seen the effects on our dogs, as much as for people. Lack of Puppy and young Dog Training, Hyper Arousal due to family members all being around, leading to a dogs behaving differently, with difficulties, and the families unsure of why, and what to do.. well done those who have sought help and assistance, much of it is easily explained and addressed for you, your family and your dog. What I don't want to see is multiple dogs being rehomed, due to separation anxiety, and unaddressed behaviour problems, but, I suspect it may happen for some. BUT maybe not you. We hear many negative, but also some positive effects of the Pandemic. I am not here to discuss them all, but to ask: What is going to be the NEW NORMAL... for us all? [email protected] 07814 147638 https://www.facebook.com/groups/K9DreamersDogTraining/ 
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During Lockdown, many of us have had extra time to spend with our dogs, at home, and on our daily walks. Thankfully, the sun has been shining meaning we can at least get out. I have recently been thinking about 'Canine Enrichment', watching YouTube videos, a Dog Training College short course by Toni Shelbourne, and reading up about it. Simply put, Enrichment is 'seeking to improve our dog's well-being, both physically, emotionally, and mentally, through different means. The different types of Enrichment can be: Environmental enrichment -platforms, mounds tunnels, plants, sandpit, surfaces, on dog walks allow the dog to sniff out the route! Manipulative or investigatory enrichment hidden treats, in a box or a game, with the dog using his paws or mouth to get them out. (Nina Ottosson games) Food based enrichment – stuffed Kongs, Snuffle mats, Lickie mats, baking tray balls and treats, scatter feed. Cognitive enrichment – working puzzles out, problem solving. training, learning new skills, tricks. Sensory enrichment - eyes, nose, ears tongue, touch - sniffing herbs, different sounds, textures, surfaces, tastes, scent work. Social enrichment - meeting other dogs or even different animal species. Toni coins the phrase 'Functional Enrichment', meaning enrichment to improve the dog's health, decrease stress, hyper arousal, improve muscle tone, balance, body awareness, improve impulse control, co-ordination, boost confidence and teach calming postures to enable relaxation, via 'Tellington T Touch' and 'Real Dog Yoga' specifically. 'Real Dog Yoga' is based on the principles of Yoga and science based, is not 'Doga' which is just putting your dog in funny positions :) (Google these if you want to know more or look on YouTube) Our dogs deserve to live a fulfilled and varied life, especially now, just like us! So, I would love to hear what amazing enrichment your dog has experienced.!  |
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May 2024
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