BLOG | TOPICS BY KATEY ALDRED

August 14, 2025

Categories

The Myth of the Stubborn Dog: Why Your Pup Isn’t Defying You

Think your dog is being stubborn? Science says otherwise. Many behaviours we label as “stubborn” are actually signs of confusion, frustration, pain, hormonal changes, or environmental distractions. Backed by veterinary insight and behavioural science, this article uncovers the real reasons dogs sometimes “ignore” commands and how you can respond with compassion, clarity, and effective, positive training techniques.

April 11, 2025

Unleashing Natural Instincts: The Power of the Flirt Pole in Dog Training

Published by Katey Aldred

Categories

Unleashing Natural Instincts: The Power of the Flirt Pole in Dog Training

A flirt pole is essentially a giant cat teaser toy for dogs. It’s a long pole (usually made of PVC or lightweight plastic) with a rope or cord attached to one end. At the end of that cord is a lure, typically a tug toy or strip of fabric designed to simulate prey. You swing, drag, or flick the lure across the ground in unpredictable ways while your dog chases and pounces. You can add other types of lure to stimulate your dog if you have a flirt pole with the ability to detach and change them. It’s part exercise, part training tool, and fully engaging for most dogs, especially those with a high prey drive.

March 14, 2025

Published by Katey Aldred

Categories

Understanding accredited and certified animal behaviourists and trainers

When seeking professional assistance for animal behaviour and training, it is crucial to understand the distinctions between different roles and qualifications. Not all individuals offering services in this field are accredited or certified or adhere to ethical and scientifically backed methodologies.

January 28, 2025

the difference between reactive and aggressive

Published by Katey Aldred

Categories

Understanding the Difference Between Reactive and Aggressive Dogs

The terms "reactive" and "aggressive" describe distinct behavioural patterns in dogs, each requiring unique management strategies. Reactive dogs display heightened emotional responses to specific stimuli, such as other dogs, people, or noises. These responses, which often include barking, lunging, or growling, are typically driven by fear, frustration, or over-arousal, rather than a direct intent to harm. In contrast, aggressive dogs exhibit behaviours intended to protect themselves or their resources, such as biting or snapping, often motivated by fear, pain, or learned responses to perceived threats (for example) (Horwitz & Mills, 2009).

January 14, 2025

Published by Katey Aldred

Categories

Paws & Celebrate: 20 years of Pooch Paws Dog Training

It’s hard to believe that Pooch Paws is celebrating its 20th anniversary. When we started this journey two decades ago, it was driven by a simple but powerful dream: to help dogs and their families build stronger, happier relationships through training and understanding. Back then, it was just an idea, a leap of faith, and a whole lot of love for our furry companions combined with dog walking

December 7, 2024

Published by Katey Aldred

Categories

Dog Vision Unveiled: How Canines See the World and Excel in the Dark

Discover the fascinating world of dog vision! Learn how dogs see colours, navigate in low light, and why their eyes glow in the dark. Explore the science behind canine eyesight Dogs have captivated humans for centuries, and one of their most fascinating traits is their ability to navigate the dark with ease. But how exactly do their eyes work, and how is their vision different from ours? In this blog post, we’ll explore the technical details of dog vision, including how they see colours, detect movement, and excel in low-light conditions.

November 10, 2024

Published by Katey Aldred

Categories

Preparing Your Dog for Holiday Guests: Tips for a Calm Christmas

The holiday season is a wonderful time to gather with family and friends, but for many dogs, the influx of guests and change in routine can be overwhelming. Ensuring a calm, safe environment for your dog during the festivities not only makes for a smoother gathering but also lets everyone, furry friends included, enjoy the holiday spirit. Here are some tips to help your dog feel relaxed and at ease around holiday guests this Christmas.

July 14, 2024

Published by Katey Aldred

Categories

Protecting Your Pooch: Common Poisonous Substances for Dogs and How to Avoid Them

Dogs are known for their curiosity and love of exploring, often leading them to sniff, lick, or chew on things they shouldn't. While this is part of what makes them endearing, it can also be dangerous if they come into contact with toxic substances. As a responsible dog owner, it's crucial to be aware of these common hazards and take steps to protect your furry friend. This blog post will highlight some of the most common poisonous substances for dogs and provide tips and tricks to help avoid these dangers.

May 13, 2024

Published by Katey Aldred

Categories

Unleashing Freedom: Exploring the World of Assistance Dogs

Assistance dogs play a vital role in the lives of many individuals across the United Kingdom, providing invaluable support and companionship to people with disabilities. In the UK, there are several types of assistance dogs that are recognised for their specific training and abilities. They are recognised under UK law including their rights and responsibilities of owners and the public. Let’s explore this and the different types of assistance dogs recognised in the UK along with the roles they play in improving the lives of their owners.

April 12, 2024

Published by Katey Aldred

Categories

The Canine Connection: How Dogs Understand Human Body Language and Emotions

Dogs have long been regarded as man's best friend, cherished for their loyalty, companionship, and uncanny ability to understand us on a level that seems almost magical. From interpreting our body language to sensing our emotions, dogs possess an extraordinary capacity to connect with humans in ways that defy explanation. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of canine cognition, exploring how dogs perceive and respond to human body language and emotions.

March 11, 2024

Published by Katey Aldred

Categories

Navigating Pet Food Labels: A Guide for UK Pet Owners

Selecting the right food for your companion is a crucial aspect of responsible pet care. You will find when you go to look there are a multitude of options available on the market. The labels can include confusing jargon making an informed decision can be challenging. Understanding pet food labels is essential to ensure that your pet receives the nutrition they need to thrive. In this guide, we'll break down the key components of pet food labels in the UK to empower you to make the best choices for your beloved pets.

February 17, 2024

Published by Katey Aldred

Categories

The Mysteries of Canine Dreams

Dogs, our faithful companions, often leave us in awe with their fascinating behaviours. From playful antics to heartfelt snuggles, they never fail to bring joy to our lives. But have you ever wondered what goes on in their minds while they sleep? The answer lies in the realm of REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep – a phase of slumber that holds the key to understanding the captivating world of canine dreams.