“I came into the course wanting two ’simple’ things: first to locate my dogs’ volume control and second to learn how to stop reactive behaviour. I learned instead:

1. My perception of other people had a huge influence over how I related to my dogs, and how I therefore behaved....

2.  My dogs are individuals with likes, preferences and fears as unique as my own..... All views are acceptable, they just require different approaches from me.

3. There is a science behind asking your dog to do something for you. Too often I have been sucked in by dog trainers offering a quick fix for something while not explaining how it works - leaving me high and dry when it doesn’t. Now I am getting to understand the rationale ... I feel better able to make a more considered choice. 

4. Letting my dogs show the way... We only go if they want and for as long as they want. This has been enough to develop the confidence to walk with unknown dogs: because she knows if she wants to leave I will take her home.

There is much more to do and there will be ups and downs. But as I write this the house is peaceful... Heaven. ”

Deborah