top of page
![moo_edited.jpg](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_8225a769b7a1457284e609082cac453a~mv2.jpg/v1/crop/x_0,y_696,w_1248,h_831/fill/w_600,h_400,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/moo_edited.jpg)
The Blog
Information for puppy and dog owners about dog behaviour, training tips, equipment, toys and enrichment, and more!
Subscribe to the Mucky Pups Blog for regular dog training tips and you'll get a surprise freebie!
Search
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_3aef1a392b444a63bdaf8d03ac6eec3c~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_250,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/18a656_3aef1a392b444a63bdaf8d03ac6eec3c~mv2.webp)
![Why Socializing Puppies Early Can Reduce Firework Fears Later](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_3aef1a392b444a63bdaf8d03ac6eec3c~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/18a656_3aef1a392b444a63bdaf8d03ac6eec3c~mv2.webp)
Oct 3, 20243 min read
Why Socializing Puppies Early Can Reduce Firework Fears Later
For many dog owners, the sound of fireworks can turn an enjoyable celebration into a stressful event. Dogs who are unaccustomed to loud,...
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_3273364f52614a59366749~mv2_d_1362_2421_s_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_250,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/nsplsh_3273364f52614a59366749~mv2_d_1362_2421_s_2.webp)
![Incorporating Nature into Your Dog's Enrichment](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_3273364f52614a59366749~mv2_d_1362_2421_s_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/nsplsh_3273364f52614a59366749~mv2_d_1362_2421_s_2.webp)
Sep 26, 20243 min read
Incorporating Nature into Your Dog's Enrichment
Nature offers a treasure trove of enrichment opportunities for dogs, providing both mental stimulation and physical exercise. Whether you...
![Is Your Dog Getting Their Needs Met?](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_4f16aacc11704dfe9b6b3428f6745534~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_95,enc_auto/18a656_4f16aacc11704dfe9b6b3428f6745534~mv2.webp)
Jul 31, 20242 min read
Is Your Dog Getting Their Needs Met?
Many dogs - dare I say, most dogs - have at least one behaviour problem. Whether it be something like pulling on lead or aggression, often,
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_9c82145600034adebb9ed9d67a970f43~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_250,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/18a656_9c82145600034adebb9ed9d67a970f43~mv2.webp)
![The Importance of Consistency in Training: Tips for All Family Members](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_9c82145600034adebb9ed9d67a970f43~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/18a656_9c82145600034adebb9ed9d67a970f43~mv2.webp)
Jul 24, 20242 min read
The Importance of Consistency in Training: Tips for All Family Members
Consistency is crucial for effective dog training. Without it, your dog can become confused, making it harder for them to learn new behav...
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_7969686c61524343766434~mv2_d_4016_6016_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_250,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/nsplsh_7969686c61524343766434~mv2_d_4016_6016_s_4_2.webp)
![Dogs on Holiday: Travelling with Your Furry Friend](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_7969686c61524343766434~mv2_d_4016_6016_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/nsplsh_7969686c61524343766434~mv2_d_4016_6016_s_4_2.webp)
Jul 17, 20242 min read
Dogs on Holiday: Travelling with Your Furry Friend
The summer is a time for holidays, family BBQs, and fun, but it can also be a stressful period for our furry friends. With a little prepa...
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_b73005e676d84ecf9dd9b75b2c8704d1~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_250,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/11062b_b73005e676d84ecf9dd9b75b2c8704d1~mv2.webp)
![Training Your Dog to Play Hide and Seek: The Ultimate Hiding Spots](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_b73005e676d84ecf9dd9b75b2c8704d1~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/11062b_b73005e676d84ecf9dd9b75b2c8704d1~mv2.webp)
Jul 3, 20243 min read
Training Your Dog to Play Hide and Seek: The Ultimate Hiding Spots
Playing hide and seek with your dog is a fantastic way to stimulate their mind, strengthen your bond, and have some fun! Teaching your dog t
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_ea3f8a20e36f4b03a794f1c8a48cf48f~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_245,h_245,fp_0.50_0.50,lg_1,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/18a656_ea3f8a20e36f4b03a794f1c8a48cf48f~mv2.webp)
![Sleepy Yawns VS Stress Yawns?](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_ea3f8a20e36f4b03a794f1c8a48cf48f~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_287,h_175,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/18a656_ea3f8a20e36f4b03a794f1c8a48cf48f~mv2.webp)
Jun 26, 20243 min read
Sleepy Yawns VS Stress Yawns?
Have you ever been doing training with your dog and all of a sudden they stop and have a scratch? Or maybe they went to get a drink? Rand...
![Unusual rewards I’ve used as a dog trainer](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_59a1b4b99be04266b8cb5fcd4a1efc9d~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_275,h_183,fp_0.50_0.50,q_95,enc_auto/18a656_59a1b4b99be04266b8cb5fcd4a1efc9d~mv2.webp)
Jun 12, 20242 min read
Unusual rewards I’ve used as a dog trainer
Treats and toys are great rewards for most dogs but that doesn't mean they are the only rewards that can be used. Sometimes treats or toys..
![How to deal with off-lead dogs](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_d168e4bdf9e94422a337ea854a9ce7e6~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_95,enc_auto/18a656_d168e4bdf9e94422a337ea854a9ce7e6~mv2.webp)
Jun 5, 20243 min read
How to deal with off-lead dogs
We've all had it... the dreaded "don't worry! My dog is friendly!"... The slow saunter as you desperately try to keep your frightened dog...
![Is It Okay To Spoil Your Dog?](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_f559154b37474e61bb11c5335c62fb3d~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_95,enc_auto/18a656_f559154b37474e61bb11c5335c62fb3d~mv2.webp)
May 21, 20243 min read
Is It Okay To Spoil Your Dog?
I can’t tell you how many times I hear owners say - so embarrassed - “oh I admit she’s allowed on the bed” or “I’m sorry he’s a boy spoiled.
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_d44533e44fed411094a710f2242bba23~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_250,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/18a656_d44533e44fed411094a710f2242bba23~mv2.webp)
![Ball Obsessed Dogs](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_d44533e44fed411094a710f2242bba23~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/18a656_d44533e44fed411094a710f2242bba23~mv2.webp)
May 7, 20243 min read
Ball Obsessed Dogs
Tennis balls, squeaky balls, footballs, any balls… some dogs just feel like there’s never enough! They’re fun to chase, cheap and can be...
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_6f55364b5a54586875766b~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_250,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/nsplsh_6f55364b5a54586875766b~mv2.webp)
![Dogs with Selective Hearing!](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_6f55364b5a54586875766b~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/nsplsh_6f55364b5a54586875766b~mv2.webp)
Apr 11, 20243 min read
Dogs with Selective Hearing!
Prepare yourselves… I’m about to disappoint you! ‘Selective hearing’ isn’t really a thing. Yes, I know, your dog listens to you sometimes...
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_772e7c089fdb49ffb9fdc4200a63eef5~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_250,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/nsplsh_772e7c089fdb49ffb9fdc4200a63eef5~mv2.webp)
![Dog Breeds for First-Time Dog Owners!](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_772e7c089fdb49ffb9fdc4200a63eef5~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/nsplsh_772e7c089fdb49ffb9fdc4200a63eef5~mv2.webp)
Mar 11, 20244 min read
Dog Breeds for First-Time Dog Owners!
Dog breeds ideal for first time dog owners:
Cavalier King Charles spaniel
Labrador, if bred from pets, not working lines.
Golden retri
![Reactive dogs: Why does your dog bark, lunge, or growl on lead?](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_babf2956dfcb4bf886db8c0e8583cbaa~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_95,enc_auto/18a656_babf2956dfcb4bf886db8c0e8583cbaa~mv2.webp)
Feb 22, 20242 min read
Reactive dogs: Why does your dog bark, lunge, or growl on lead?
Recently, there’s been a trend in all barky, lungy dogs being labelled “reactive”, but actually there’s a huge difference between reactivity
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_542d3045572d5345627345~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_250,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/nsplsh_542d3045572d5345627345~mv2.webp)
![Top Tips for Getting Your Dog to Come Back to You](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_542d3045572d5345627345~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/nsplsh_542d3045572d5345627345~mv2.webp)
Feb 8, 20243 min read
Top Tips for Getting Your Dog to Come Back to You
Of all the different behaviours I teach, and all the different problems people come to me with, the most common issue, year after year is...
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_668c75736d184c359397618aa0c52ceb~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_250,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/18a656_668c75736d184c359397618aa0c52ceb~mv2.webp)
![Socialisation Myths](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_668c75736d184c359397618aa0c52ceb~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/18a656_668c75736d184c359397618aa0c52ceb~mv2.webp)
Jan 12, 20242 min read
Socialisation Myths
There are many myths about dogs, and especially puppy socialisation, and I'm here to debunk them! Let's get those puppies starting out...
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/cc4acd25ee9e4169a3d633f05e4429ac.jpg/v1/fill/w_250,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/cc4acd25ee9e4169a3d633f05e4429ac.webp)
![The Secret Behind Rewards](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/cc4acd25ee9e4169a3d633f05e4429ac.jpg/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/cc4acd25ee9e4169a3d633f05e4429ac.webp)
Dec 21, 20234 min read
The Secret Behind Rewards
Listen up. I'm going to give you all the secrets other dog trainers won't tell you about reinforcement and rewards.
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_7778665a6938655964456b~mv2_d_6000_4000_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_250,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/nsplsh_7778665a6938655964456b~mv2_d_6000_4000_s_4_2.webp)
![Reasons Your Puppy Might Be Biting You!](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/nsplsh_7778665a6938655964456b~mv2_d_6000_4000_s_4_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/nsplsh_7778665a6938655964456b~mv2_d_6000_4000_s_4_2.webp)
Dec 12, 20233 min read
Reasons Your Puppy Might Be Biting You!
Whether you have a puppy who bites all day long, or is perfect until their ‘witching hour’ and then the teeth come out, here are some reason
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_9c0489b4c7a04ff687e3f0bc888606af~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_250,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/11062b_9c0489b4c7a04ff687e3f0bc888606af~mv2.webp)
![Is Little Dog Syndrome Real?](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/11062b_9c0489b4c7a04ff687e3f0bc888606af~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_454,h_341,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/11062b_9c0489b4c7a04ff687e3f0bc888606af~mv2.webp)
Dec 6, 20232 min read
Is Little Dog Syndrome Real?
Little dog syndrome is a non-scientific term that suggests that small dogs are more likely to show specific behaviours, including;
Barking
![](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_ece63ec382844208826b6fd7f8f08e67~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_250,h_250,fp_0.50_0.50,lg_1,q_30,blur_30,enc_auto/18a656_ece63ec382844208826b6fd7f8f08e67~mv2.webp)
![Life Skills VS Obedience](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/18a656_ece63ec382844208826b6fd7f8f08e67~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_181,h_183,fp_0.50_0.50,q_90,enc_auto/18a656_ece63ec382844208826b6fd7f8f08e67~mv2.webp)
Oct 12, 20232 min read
Life Skills VS Obedience
Let’s stop looking at dogs who are barking / growling / lunging at ‘naughty dogs’ who need training.
bottom of page