By Jackie Murphy G. Dip AAB / A. Dip AAB (Canine) / MISAP (Beh) / MEST (QTLS) October can be an enjoyable time of year for us, but for some dogs it brings a number of challenges. Darker evenings, trick-or-treaters at the door, unusual costumes, excited children outside and, of course, the beginning of the […]
Halloween and Fireworks: How to Help Your Dog Cope This Autumn Read More »
Jackie MurphyG. Dip AAB / A. Dip AAB (Canine) / MISAP (Beh) / MEST (QTLS)Specialist Dog Training Nearly 20 years ago, I wrote a blog about dogs being allowed to run up to other dogs without permission. Sadly, I am still seeing exactly the same problem today. The familiar shout of, “Don’t worry, my dog
“Don’t Worry, My Dog Is Friendly!” —Why Your Dog Should Not Run Up to Other Dogs Read More »
Jackie MurphyG. Dip AAB / A. Dip AAB (Canine) / MISAP (Beh) / MEST (QTLS)Specialist Dog Training Does your dog seem to have endless energy, even after a long walk? Do they come home and immediately start pacing, barking, bringing you toys or looking for the next thing to do? It is easy to assume
Your Dog Doesn’t Need More Exercise – They May Need More Rest Read More »
Many dog owners expect a puppy to chew the odd slipper or have a toilet accident during training. What they don’t expect is a dog that becomes distressed the moment they leave the house. Separation anxiety is one of the most common behavioural problems we see, yet many owners don’t recognise the early warning signs
Separation Anxiety in Dogs: Early Warning Signs Most Owners Miss Read More »
By Jackie Murphy G.Dip ABM / ADAAB (Canine) / MISAP (beh) / MEST (QTLS)/ ABTC-AAB / ABTC-ATIAmbassador of Great Britain for International Society of Animal Professionals Getting a new puppy is exciting — until your hands, shoes, furniture, and clothes become chew toys. Puppy biting and chewing are among the most common problems new dog owners
How to Stop Puppy Biting and Chewing: A Complete Guide for New Dog Owners Read More »
By Jackie Murphy G.Dip.ABM/ADAAB (Canine)/MISAP (beh)/MEST(QTLS)/ABTC-AAB/ABTC-ATI One of the most common questions I get at Specialist Dog Training Kent is:“Why does my dog bark at other dogs on walks?” If your dog barks, lunges, growls, or becomes difficult to control when they see another dog, they may be showing what’s known as reactive behaviour. This
Why Does My Dog Bark at Other Dogs on Walks? Reactive Dog Training in Kent Read More »
As of 18 March 2026, dog owners across England and Wales face a major legal shift. The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 introduces stricter rules, tougher penalties, and expanded definitions around livestock worrying. For those of us in the dog training world, this isn’t just a legal update – it’s a clear signal:
What the New Livestock Protection Law Means for Dog Owners – And How to Train for It Read More »
Why Do Dogs Pull on the Lead? Understanding why your dog pulls is the first step to fixing the problem. Dogs rarely pull because they’re stubborn or disobedient. Instead, pulling is usually the result of natural behaviour combined with learned habits. 1. Dogs Naturally Walk Faster Than Humans Dogs naturally move at a faster pace
How to Stop Your Dog Pulling on the Lead Read More »
By Jackie Murphy G. Dip AAB / A. Dip AAB (Canine) / MISAP (Beh) / MEST (QTLS) What is the difference between a dog trainer and a dog behaviourist? The first point here is to define the difference between a dog trainer and a canine/animal behaviourist. A dog trainer can: Help with skills such as
What is the difference between a dog trainer and a dog behaviourist? Read More »
There is much advice that can be sought about how to walk your dog, how long to walk your dog and where you can walk your dog. However, do you ever stop and think about the world your dog lives in? Modern life means we are rushing around, and everything is or needs to be
Why we should be aware of our dog’s world. Read More »