Behaviour

Achieving behaviour change isn’t really about products or equipment (and actually we’d go as far as to say that any product that claims to ‘fix’ behaviours should probably be avoided), but there are a small number of core products we use time and time again alongside behaviour modification programmes and find they can really help.  

Supplements for behaviour 

No supplement is a cure-all for behaviour, but they can be really helpful in supporting specific situations and some play a part in helping improve underlying mood state and making it easier for your dog to learn new behaviours. However, different supplements have different properties and work in completely different ways, so it is important to choose the right one and the best results come from combining this with behaviour support. 

‘Reactive’ dogs

This is not our favourite term, but it’s the one which most people use when they describe dogs who struggle around other dogs, people, traffic and so on. Life with dogs who find the outside world stressful can be really hard (whether through fear, frustration or the other emotional states which can cause this) and it is essential, first and foremost to make sure you, your dog and everyone around you is safe. The key to this is not to take your dog into situations they find too difficult, but sometimes life doesn’t go to plan and it is also important to be prepared for the unexpected! Here are a few things we find can really help clients (and their canine companions) relax and focus on their walk or their training, rather than worrying so intensely about ‘what might happen if……’

• Let people know you need more space
• Make sure your clicker and treats are easily accessible and that your treats are really high value
• Be safe – if you’re worried, attach your dog to you using a walking belt and a second lead (there ‘just for emergencies’)
• Teach your dog to wear a muzzle safely and comfortably.