Things to Do in Pangbourne With Your Dog

A Dog-Friendly Guide to Pangbourne

Whether you’re a local exploring with your canine companion or just visiting this charming village, Pangbourne is bursting with dog-friendly gems. From tail-wagging treats to welcoming venues, here’s your go-to guide for the best things to do in Pangbourne with your dog.

Dog-Friendly Shops and businesses in Pangbourne

Running errands doesn’t mean leaving your pup at home. These local businesses welcome dogs inside:

Barking Mad Pet Shop & Belle’s Bubbles Groomers – a one-stop shop for all things canine, plus a friendly intro to grooming for puppies.

Collins Hardware Store – dogs are welcome to sniff around while you shop.

The Pangbourne Cheese Shop – browse artisan cheeses while your pup joins the adventure.

The Loose Larder – a foodie favourite where dogs are part of the family.

The Eye Club Optician – pick out specs with your pup by your side.

Greens the Butchers – tie-up hooks and dog treats for polite pups.

Classic Flooring – bring your dog along for a second opinion.

Strutt & Parker and Dudley Singleton & Daughter – estate agents with water bowls, treats, and even office dogs.

Launderclean Launderette – yes, even laundry day can be dog day!

Cafés, Pubs and Hotels – Dog-Friendly Leisure in Pangbourne

If you’re looking for relaxed things to do in Pangbourne, you’ll find plenty of spots to enjoy food and drink with your dog at your side:

Costa Coffee – fully dog-friendly inside and out, with water bowls provided.

Birch Bread – artisan bakery with a super dog-friendly vibe.

The George Hotel – pups welcome in the bar and terrace.

The Elephant Hotel – four dog-friendly bedrooms plus bar and garden spaces.

The Cross Keys – a relaxed pub perfect for post-walk pints.

Outdoor Things to Do in Pangbourne With Your Dog

Pangbourne also has wonderful outdoor spaces to explore together:

• Water Meadows – open meadows, river splashes, and butterfly chasing.

• Pangbourne Recreation Ground – for ball games, socialising, and daily walks.

Training and Activities for Dogs in Pangbourne

Looking to give your pup more than just a walk? Happipup, run by local trainer Sandra, offers training classes, workshops, and adventure walks. It’s a brilliant way to build confidence and create strong bonds while exploring Pangbourne.

Check out our latest workshops 

or if you need one on one training click here

Why Pangbourne is Perfect for Dogs

From cafés with biscuits on the counter to scenic meadows by the Thames, there’s no shortage of things to do in Pangbourne with your dog. It’s a village that truly welcomes wagging tails and happy trails.

Share Your Training Journey!
Tag @Happipup or use #TrainWithHappipup on Instagram to show off your progress. We love seeing our pups learn and grow with love!

Is It Too Late to Train an Adult Dog? Here’s the Truth

Many owners wonder if it’s too late to train an adult dog — especially if their dog has been part of the family for years or has already developed certain habits. The truth? Adult dog training is not only possible, but it can also be one of the most rewarding things you do for your pet.

Whether you’ve adopted an older rescue or your long-time companion needs a refresher, training an adult dog offers countless benefits. In this post, we’ll explore why it’s never too late to start and how it can improve behaviour, wellbeing, and quality of life.

Adult Dogs Can Learn New Tricks

Contrary to the old saying, adult dogs absolutely can learn new tricks — and often faster than puppies. Older dogs typically have longer attention spans and are less distracted, making it easier to train an adult dog in many situations.

Correct Unwanted Behaviours

If your adult dog pulls on the lead, barks excessively, jumps on guests, or shows signs of anxiety, training can help. Many behaviours that develop over time can be modified with positive reinforcement training and professional guidance. Learning how to train an adult dog for these behaviours can make life at home calmer and more enjoyable. Check out our one to one training options here

Strengthen Your Bond

Training isn’t just about obedience; it’s about communication and building a deeper relationship. Spending time together in a structured, rewarding environment helps increase trust and understanding between you and your dog – especially if they’ve come from a rescue background. Training an adult dog provides a shared experience that strengthens your bond.

Boost Your Dog’s Confidence

Adult dogs – particularly those from uncertain or traumatic backgrounds — may lack confidence. Training gives them clear expectations, structured challenges, and plenty of praise, which helps build self-assurance over time. Activities like scent work, problem-solving games, or “genius” classes engage both mind and body, making training an adult dog stimulating and rewarding.

Mental Stimulation Is Crucial at Every Age

Just like humans, dogs need mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy as they age. Training an adult dog provides a great mental workout, helping reduce stress, prevent boredom, and even delay cognitive decline in senior dogs.

It’s Easier Than You Think

Many owners worry it’s “too late” or that their dog is “too stubborn” to train — but with the right approach, patience, and consistency, adult dogs often thrive in a training environment. You don’t have to go it alone either! Group classes, workshops, or one-to-one sessions can help you stay on track when you train an adult dog.

Training Can Be Fun

From boosting confidence and scent work to trick training and interactive games, training an adult dog is about more than just sit and stay. It’s a chance for you both to have fun, build trust, and explore new activities together.

Plus, a well-trained dog means more freedom — like off-lead walks, café visits, and easier vet trips.

Final Thoughts: It’s Never Too Late to Train Your Adult Dog

Training isn’t just for puppies — it’s a lifelong journey that enriches your dog’s life and strengthens your bond. Whether you’re working on basic manners or exploring enrichment classes, making the decision to train an adult dog can be one of the best things you do for them.

Share Your Training Journey!
Tag @Happipup or use #TrainWithHappipup on Instagram to show off your progress. We love seeing our pups learn and grow with love!

Taking a dog on holiday – here’s what you need to know before you go.

Planning a dog-friendly holiday in the UK? Discover expert tips to make your getaway smooth, stress-free, and tail-waggingly fun. From pet-friendly beaches to travel rules—here’s what every dog owner needs to know.

A Personal Note from Me & My Spaniels

Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy some unforgettable dog-friendly holidays around the UK with my Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. From windswept beaches in Cornwall to peaceful walks in the Yorkshire Dales, we’ve had some incredible adventures—and a few mishaps too (mud, missed bookings, and one enthusiastic dash into a duck pond!).

So, based on real-life experience, here are our tried-and-tested top tips for planning a successful UK getaway with your four-legged friend.

Essential Tips for taking a dog on holiday in the UK

1. Double-Check “Dog-Friendly” Really Means Dog-Welcoming

One thing I’ve learned the hard way—not all dog-friendly listings are created equal. Some places welcome pups with open arms (and treats), while others just tolerate them in one corner of the patio.

Before booking:

• Confirm where your dog is allowed (e.g. in rooms, dining areas, lounges)
• Ask about breed or size restrictions
• Check whether any dog extras (like beds, towels or bowls) are provided
• Make sure that you ask about extra deposits required or increased booking fee for your dogs.

2. Pack for Mud, Rain & Wet Noses

In the UK, it’s wise to prepare for all weather—and all mess! Especially if you have a spaniel who loves water and muddy trails.

My doggy travel essentials include:

• Microfibre dog towels
• Seat protectors
• Quick-dry mats
• A portable paw washer (a real game changer!)

3. Keep Dogs on a Lead Around Livestock

• Whether we’re walking in the Peaks or the Lakes, I always make sure the dogs stay on a lead around farm animals. It’s a simple step that protects wildlife, livestock—and keeps your dog safe.

4. Sniff Out Dog-Friendly Pubs and Cafés

• One of our favourite parts of UK travel is finding cosy pubs that roll out the red carpet for dogs. Some even offer dog treats or menus! I recommend using apps like Pawfect Stay or Dog Friendly Pub Guide to plan pit stops in advance.

5. Check Dog Access at Beaches in Advance

We’ve loved beach days from Saunton Sands to Holkham—but not all beaches allow dogs all year round. Some restrict access in summer or during seal pup season.

Here are some of our favourite year-round dog-friendly beaches:

1. Holkham Beach, Norfolk
2. Fistral Beach, Cornwall
3. Saunton Sands, Devon
4. Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire
5. Robin Hood’s Bay, Yorkshire

Top Tips:

• Avoid mid-day heat; early mornings or evenings are best for beach walks
• If the sand’s too hot for your bare feet, it’s too hot for paws

6. Car Travel: Comfort + Safety First

Taking a dog on holiday isn’t always easy when you have dogs that don’t travel well. Cavaliers tend to love car rides, but I still make sure every journey is calm and safe. Here’s what works for us:

• Use a car harness, crate or boot guard
• Bring their blanket or bed for comfort
• Plan in regular stops for toilet breaks
• Offer water at every stop

7. Try Dog-Friendly Transport

If you’re going car-free, the UK offers lots of great dog-friendly transport options:

• Trains: Most allow dogs to travel for free
• Buses: Dogs are often allowed at the driver’s discretion
• Ferries: Many routes to places like the Isle of Wight and Scottish islands welcome dogs—just check before you travel

8. Find the Nearest Vet (Just in Case)

While we’ve thankfully never needed an emergency vet, I always check the nearest one when we arrive—just to be safe. I also carry:

• Vaccination records
• Pet insurance info
• A small dog first aid kit

9. Take It Slow and Let Them Sniff

• One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned? Don’t rush it.
  Cavaliers (and most dogs!) love to sniff, explore, and just take it all in. So instead of packing the itinerary, I always plan time for lazy walks, café stops, and impromptu snuggles.

In May I stayed in the loveliest fishermans cottage in Robin Hoods Bay called Sunnyside Cottage – its a stones throw from the beach and there are plenty of gorgeous coastal walks. Plus the dogs get treated like royalty – They are allowed on the furniture and on the beds and they arrive to treats, dog robes, beds and a whole box of fab pet products you can use throughout your stay!

Click here to check it out.

Packing checklist for taking a dog on holiday

Here’s what I always bring for my pups:

• Collar, harness, lead & ID tag
• Food, water & bowls
•  Treats & favourite toys
• Dog bed or travel blanket
• Towels & poo bags
• Dog sun cream (for summer trips)
• Cool mat
• Any medications
• First aid kit
• Familiar items from home to relax your dog in their new environment.

Anyone who has done one of our classes know that I recommend taking a favourite ‘paws up’ item with you for confidence.

If you are in or around Pangbourne are we would love to see you at one of our training classes or workshops!!

Top tip: Ask your accommodation in advance if they provide dog beds, bowls or towels—it could save you packing space!

Final Pre-Trip Reminders

• Double-check your dog’s microchip details are up to date
• Make sure vaccinations, flea/tick/worm treatments are current
• Update your dog’s ID tag to include your mobile number and holiday postcode – I have a second tag made with our holiday details on it.

Happy Tails & Safe Travels

Taking a dog on holiday can be one of the most rewarding experiences – full of fun, fresh air, and unforgettable moments. With a little planning, your UK dog-friendly holiday can be just as relaxing for your pup as it is for you.

From our pups to yours – have a fantastic adventure!

Share Your Training Journey!
Tag @Happipup or use #TrainWithHappipup on Instagram to show off your progress. We love seeing our pups learn and grow with love!

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training: A Kinder Way to Raise a Happy Pup

Learn the basics of positive reinforcement dog training—what it is, why it works, and how to start using love and rewards to teach your dog better behaviour.

Training your dog doesn’t have to involve yelling, leash-pulling, or harsh corrections. In fact, one of the most effective ways to teach your dog is also the most loving: positive reinforcement training. Whether you’re raising a new puppy or working with an older dog, this approach helps you build trust, encourage good habits, and create a stronger bond between you and your pup.

What is Positive Reinforcement Dog Training?

Positive reinforcement is a dog training method that focuses on rewarding the behaviours you want—instead of punishing the ones you don’t.

Why It Works (Backed by Science)

• Dogs are smart, but they don’t speak our language. Positive reinforcement helps them connect the dots between their actions and outcomes.

  Research shows this method:

  • Leads to faster learning
  • Strengthens the human-animal bond
  • Reduces fear and anxiety
  • Encourages confidence and problem-solving in dogs

  And unlike punishment-based training, it doesn’t damage trust or lead to aggression.

What Counts as a “Reward”?

Every dog is different, but common positive reinforcers include:

• Treats (especially soft, smelly ones!)
• Verbal praise (“Good boy!” or “Yes!”)
• Toys or playtime
• Cuddles or affection

Start with high-value rewards for new behaviours, and mix in praise as your dog gets more consistent.

How to Get Started with Positive Reinforcement

Here’s a simple 5-step process:

1. Choose a Behaviour to Teach

Start simple, like “sit”.

2. Mark the Behaviour

Use a clicker or a cue word like “Yes!” the moment your dog does the right thing.

3. Reward Immediately

Timing matters! Give your dog a reward right after the behaviour so they know what they did right.

4. Practice in Short Sessions

Dogs learn best in 5–10 minute training sessions. Repeat often and keep it fun!

5. Stay Consistent

Use the same cues, tone, and timing every time to avoid confusion.

Example: Teaching “Sit” with Positive Reinforcement

1. Hold a treat near your dog’s nose.
2. Slowly raise it above their head. When their bottom hits the floor, say “Yes!” and give them a treat.
3. Repeat several times, then add the word “Sit” right before they do it.
4. Practice daily in short bursts.

What Not to Do

• Don’t yell or punish. This creates fear, not learning.
• Don’t confuse your dog. Be clear and consistent with commands.
• Don’t give up. All dogs learn at their own pace!

The Long-Term Benefits of Positive Reinforcement

Training with love builds a relationship based on trust, not fear. It teaches your dog to think, problem-solve, and feel safe trying new things. Plus, it makes training something you both enjoy.

Whether you want a dog who’s polite on walks or one who listens during chaos, positive reinforcement gives you the tools to shape behaviour in a compassionate, effective way.

Final Tip: Reward the Good You See

The more often you reward calm, polite, or curious behavior, the more often your dog will repeat it. So catch your pup doing something right—and let them know!

Share Your Training Journey!
Tag @Happipup or use #TrainWithHappipup on Instagram to show off your progress. We love seeing our pups learn and grow with love!

Why Crate Train Your Puppy?

Crate training helps your puppy’s journey in so many ways. 

• It prevents your pup from chewing through electric cables or your favourite rug while your back is turned! 
• It can help them get enough sleep.
•  A crate can help with house training (dogs rarely want to toilet in their bed area).
•  It can help protect the pup from being pestered by children or other dogs.

Rather than thinking of a crate as a prison think of it as being the equivalent of our 5-star hotel in the Seychelles! It needs to be as comfortable as possible. How your pup views the crate will be down to how you introduce it to them.

Choosing the Right Crate

There’s not a lot to be picky about when choosing puppy crates. Just make sure you choose one that is:

• The right size: pick a crate which is easy for your puppy to stand up, turn around and lie down in…but not so large that they’re able to walk a few steps around in it because then they tend to turn one end into a loo.
• Easy to clean: just in case there are any accidents, which let’s face it there probably will be!
• Portable: you’ll need something like this if you want to take them on your next holiday.  

How to Get Your Pup Used to the Crate 

• Make it the cosiest place to be: a cosy nest of blankets or vet bed, or something similar so that it’s absolutely the best bed in the house. You can also drape the crate with a blanket or towel to make it feel enclosed, or you can leave one side open so you can keep an eye on your pup! 
• Provide fun things to do in your puppy’s crate, and hide treats and toys for your puppy to find on their own.
• Ideally, for daytime use, the crate should be placed somewhere that you can keep an eye on it, and the pup can see what’s going on too, but not right in the main path of household traffic. It’s important that you place it somewhere where it can be constantly accessible with the door ajar – that way your puppy can choose to go in it when he is tired – and leave again when he wants to – this choice is an important factor in the training process.

Never in Anger

The crate needs to be a happy place and not somewhere that your pup goes to as a punishment. When you pop your pup in the crate give him something to do: a Kong, snuffle mat or chews are great ideas. Always, always take your pup’s collar and harness off when you pop him in the crate.

Sleepy Pup

Each and every time your puppy looks sleepy or falls asleep somewhere else during the day, gently pick him or her up and put him in the comfy crate. When he wakes up he will find himself in the crate – making it a familiar place for sleep when it comes to night-time.

Meal times

Prepare your pup’s meal, or use lickmats and Kongs and let your pup see it and smell it, then put the food inside the crate, and close the door, with your puppy on the outside!

• After a few seconds, open the crate door. Your puppy should shoot in, keen to eat the food – his desire heightened by a little frustration.
• Close the door and allow him to eat in peace, then as soon as he’s finished, casually open the door, let him out and take him out to the toilet.

Shy puppy

Some dogs don’t want to go into a crate because there’s no clear exit. If yours is one of these, then choose a crate with two doors.

• With both doors of the crate open, pretend that you are teaching your pup to run through a tunnel.  
• With your pup watching, drop a food treat into the crate through the bars at the top, so your pup has to go in to eat it. As soon as he has, lure him out through the other door – so he’s effectively moved through the crate like a tunnel.

Home alone:

All these starting strategies are designed to teach your puppy to be confident at entering the crate and associating it with good things. Now, you need to work on making sure he’s happy to stay in the crate for short periods, even when you aren’t around. 

This can only be done by gradually building up the time that your pup is in the crate – either sleeping, eating, or chewing something wonderful. 

Take this at your dog’s pace. It’s worth spending a bit of time on this in the first couple of weeks, as it will pay off for the next decade! 

Remember, the three rules of teaching your puppy to enjoy being in the crate on his own are:

1. Good things happen in the crate. These things are no longer available to your pup when he comes out. 
2. You act before your puppy whines, barks or cries and remove him from the crate. That way you never have to tell him off, or accidentally reinforce his demands to be let out. 
3. Build up slowly in the first couple of weeks. Be within sight, to begin with, then gradually move away until your pup is effectively alone for 2 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes and so on. 

If you need any help at all with crate training please get in touch.

The Benefits of training your puppy

So, you have a new furry family member and you are wondering whether or not you should train them. Here are just a few of the ways that puppy training will benefit you and your pup as we look at the benefits of training your puppy.

Relationship

Training your puppy will help you build an amazing relationship with your furry family member. It will set you and your puppy up for a lifetime of trust and continued learning. Training is fulfilling for you and your pup; nothing is more impressive than a well-trained puppy having fun and showing off their skills!

Freedom

Training will give you both the freedom to do the things that you like to do! You will be able to take your puppy to the café or pub without having to worry about whether he will behave and in turn, he gets to go off lead and have fun exploring the environment around him because you know that he will come back to you.

Mental Stimulation

Dogs are intelligent animals and most of them love to learn so training can be a great way of stopping them from getting bored. This is so important throughout the dog’s life stages – from puppy to teenager to senior dog.

Confidence Building

One of the greatest gifts that you can give your puppy is the gift of confidence. Training your puppy using positive reinforcement will teach him that making decisions and engaging with you and the environment earns them good things like treats and praise. Your pup will be more open to new experiences as they are positive and rewarding.

Communication

Training opens up a way to communicate with your puppy, it gives you connection and establishes trust between you.

Safety

Training your puppy to listen to your cues can protect him from potential conflict with dogs and other animals or from running into the middle of the road.

Preventing Behaviour Concerns

Regular training sessions work your dog physically and mentally in a positive way, providing stimulation and attention which helps to prevent behaviour concerns. Dogs have no concept of what is right or wrong. We need to help our dogs make the right choices – for example, if you teach your puppy to chew on a toy, he will look for these instead of chewing your shoes!

Support

When you join a Happipup puppy class you become part of a very special, supportive community where you can share struggles and strengths with other pet parents and trainers.

Social Settings

Taking your puppy to a class or group setting will help him behave in social situations with other dogs and people. Because of this, your pup will make everyone more comfortable in these settings. As a result, these will become memorable experiences for your puppy that will positively affect how they interact with others.

What is your dog trying to tell you?

One of the most common things I hear from dog guardians is: ‘well his tail is wagging so that means he is happy, right?’. Actually, no it doesn’t! We need to look at the whole body, and also what is happening around the dog at the time. Here are a few things to look out for when observing your dog.

Tails

A dog’s tail can give us a lot of clues about how a dog is feeling but it doesn’t tell the whole story, especially with dogs like French bulldogs who have hardly any tail at all! For these dogs, the whole bottom wiggling shows us that they are happy. 

Wagging Tails

• A wide loose tail wag along with the whole body being soft and wiggly is the sign of a happy dog. If the tail moves in wide fast circles (helicopter tail) this is the happiest wag of all!

• A high, stiff and narrow tail wag combined with a tense face and body means that the dog is not feeling friendly but if the dog’s bottom is wiggly he is excited and playful. The more agitated or excited the dog feels, the higher the tail and the faster the wag.

Anxious, Low Tails

• If your dog’s tail is clamped down over his bottom or tucked under, he may be feeling anxious, unsure or scared. The lower or more tucked under the tail, the more anxious or fearful your dog may be feeling.

Relaxed, Neutral Tail

• What a relaxed and neutral tail position looks like will depend on the breed of your dog and the type of tail. He may be feeling relaxed and happy – look at the bottom. Relaxed tails are attached to relaxed bottoms!

Which Side Is Your Dogs Tail Wagging?

• Yes, it really does make a difference! Studies have shown that when dogs wag their tails to the right, they’re likely to be feeling happy or confident, whereas wagging them to the left can mean they are frightened or feeling negative emotions.

Eyes

Soft Eyes

• Your dog’s eyes look almond-shaped and their ears, mouth and body are relaxed. He may be feeling happy and peaceful.

Hard Stare

• Your dog is giving continuous direct eye contact, their ears are forward and they have a tight mouth. The body is still or stiff. He may be feeling concerned or annoyed and confrontational.

Blinking Eyes

• Your dog is squinting or blinking, avoiding direct eye contact. He may be feeling uncomfortable when something or someone is too intense. Frequent blinking may mean more discomfort, if your dog is leaning away there is possible pain.

Whale Eye

• Eyes will have big dilated pupils with the whites of the eyes showing. Eyes are focused in the opposite direction to where your dog’s head is pointing and the body is frozen or not moving. He may be feeling conflicted or trapped, asking for space and thinking about how to escape. 

Ears

A dog’s ears are not only for hearing – they can help tell you how your dog is feeling.

Alert Ears

• Your dog’s ears move up and rotate forward. He may be feeling interested, attentive and excited.

Pinned – Back Ears

• Your dog’s ears are forced back flat against their head. In some floppy-eared dogs, the more stressed the dog is, the more ‘pinched’ the ear flaps look. He may be feeling scared, anxious or sad.

Dropped Ears

• Your dog’s ears have moved down, sideways or back but are not pressed against his head. If your dog is approaching someone and has soft eyes, this is friendly and non – confrontational. If he is leaning away and avoiding someone, this is uncertainty or worry.

Signs of Stress

These are the signs that your dog may be feeling uncomfortable about their situation.

Lip or Nose Lick

• Your dog will be licking his lips or nose when there is no food present. He may be feeling concerned, and uneasy, need to reduce tension and is saying that he is finding a situation difficult.

Stress Yawn

• Your dog will be doing short yawns, his body won’t look relaxed and you may hear a squeaky sound. He may be feeling anxious, needing to avoid conflict, feeling uneasy and communicating that he needs a break.

Sniffing or Digging the Ground.

• Your dog may suddenly start sniffing the ground or digging when something or someone appears. He may be feeling anxious, wanting to avoid interaction, needs to focus on something else and is uncertain about the situation.

 Scratching or Licking 

Like sniffing or digging, this is a sign of your dog doing something out of context due to anxiety.

• Your dog suddenly starts scratching or licking himself while in the middle of doing something else. He may be feeling anxious or nervous about a situation

Feel free to get in touch with Happipup if you have any concerns with your dog’s body language by either calling 07973 272 911 or emailing sandra@happipup.co.uk

How can I stop my puppy biting me?

You thought you were getting a puppy but seem to have brought home a land shark with needle-sharp teeth instead! Here are some of the most common reasons why our puppies bite and how we can work on stopping it.

Why Do Puppies Bite?

The first thing to know is that puppy biting and mouthing is normal behaviour. They use their mouths and teeth to explore the world around them.

So how do I stop the biting?

Redirect the biting

Your first step will be to redirect your puppies from biting on to something else. Try a toy that your puppy loves, a knotted micro fibre cloth or tea towel. Keep these things in your pockets or close by so that you can get them quickly when those teeth appear. If your puppy doesn’t seem interested in these start to make them a fun distraction but does keep them close to floor level.

How Much Sleep Is Your Puppy Getting?

How many hours of good-quality sleep is your puppy getting? Just like us, they can get grumpy and grouchy if they don’t get enough – on average they need 19 hours of sleep a day! 

Is Your Puppy Getting Over-Excited?

Too much running around and playing chase with your puppy can lead to biting! Think about mental stimulation instead and use puzzle games and short training sessions. To bring your pup’s excitement levels down give him things like lick mats, Kongs and snuffle mats. You may need to help him make good choices by also popping him in his crate or playpen but always make sure he has something to do. Once excitement levels lower you may well find that he falls fast asleep.

Is it The Clothing That You Wear?

Movement of clothing such as dressing gown belts and the bottoms of our trousers can spark off biting. If there is a particular piece of clothing that your puppy loves to hang off and bite try not to wear it for a few weeks.

Have you got ‘busy hands’?

Too much movement of your hands around a puppy’s head can also spark off biting. Think ‘hands off’ training for a while and try and avoid patting your pup’s head!

Is Your Puppy Hungry?

Puppies go through growth spurts and may become hungrier than normal during these times. Think about increasing the amount of food you give your puppy during these periods to see whether it helps.

Are You Rough Playing with Your Puppy?

Too much rough play can cause our puppies to get over-excited which will then lead to biting. Try calmly playing with a tug toy instead but keep it close to the floor – no one wants a puppy jumping up in their face!

Is Your Puppy Bored?

A bored puppy can turn into a biting puppy! Think about doing some training in 3-minute slots, teaching them to find their food in cardboard boxes and rolled-up towels. Scatter food in the grass, make them their very own digging pit or set up a treasure hunt for them.

Top Tips

• Stand still
• Walk out of the room – this can reset your puppy and helps stop the biting.
• Wear wellies – if you have a pup that goes for toes and ankles wearing wellies will help!

Reward your puppy when they choose not to bite so that they learn that this brings tasty rewards.

At Happipup we offer training either at home or in person that will help you learn how to interact with your pup. Get in touch today by calling 07973 272 911 or emailing sandra@happipup.co.uk

Preparing for a new puppy

Is there anything more exciting than bringing home a new puppy? At happipup we certainly don’t think so but there is so much conflicting information out there which can be confusing and overwhelming. This is why we offer a pre puppy planning session to help you when preparing for a new puppy so that we can help you set your puppy up for success from the very beginning. Here are just a few of our top tips.

To crate or not to crate

This really depends on you and your puppy. Crates can be a great way of keeping your pup safe and giving them their own space but there are pups (mine included) that just don’t suit them. If you are buying a crate, make sure that it is not too big for your puppy who should have enough room to be able to stand up, lay down and turn around. You can buy clip on water bowls, a crate cover (or just use a blanket) and a bed to fit.  

Puppy pens

These are great as a safe place to keep your pup when you are unable to supervise them and can also be used to divide the room if necessary.

Baby gates

These are great for managing where your pup has access to and to get them used to not following you everywhere. They are perfect for preventing access to the stairs.

Food and water bowls

Plastic bowls can be harder to keep clean than stainless steel bowls. A stainless-steel bowl with a non- slip bottom is ideal.

Grooming

A brush which has soft rubber bristles is ideal as a start for your puppy. These are much gentler than brushes with metal bristles. Buy a good quality puppy shampoo which is gentle on your pup’s skin.

A bed

Puppies need plenty of sleep so a comfortable bed is important. Soft puppy beds are great for some pups but for others they can turn into a chew toy. If you find that this is the case with your puppy, think about buying a raised bed (HiK9 have a great selection).

Collar and lead

A brush which has soft rubber bristles is ideal as a start for your puppy. These are much gentler than brushes with metal bristles. Buy a good quality puppy shampoo which is gentle on your pup’s skin.

Tips For Having a Happy Christmas With Your Dog

Christmas can be a truly magical time of year. The tree is up, the house is decorated and the presents are wrapped, excitement levels are high especially when you have young children!

You want to enjoy the festivities and welcome family and friends to celebrate with you, but you also want to be sure that your dog is as happy, safe and relaxed as possible. 

Whether you have a new, super cute puppy, a recent rescue or a family dog who has been with you for years, it is important that they don’t become stressed, overwhelmed or over-excited. Dogs can’t tell you how they feel so observe for any signs that they are feeling uncomfortable and have had enough. Make sure that there is a safe place where they can go and not be disturbed. This could be their crate, a utility room or even a study or office set up just for your four-legged family member.

Tips For Having a Happy Christmas With Your Dog

One of the biggest Christmas traditions is to bring a giant fir tree into our homes and cover it with bright shiny baubles that dangle enticingly! Your dog may see the tree as being the ideal place for an indoor wee, a great climbing opportunity or the source of many sticks! To an anxious dog, it could also be a source of alarm. If you think that your dog may be too interested in the tree:

• Consider having a smaller tree that can be put on a table.
• Use a puppy pen to section off the room where the tree is so that your dog can’t access it.
• Make sure you regularly clear up the fallen needles so they don’t end up in your dog’s paw.
• Avoid glass baubles which may shatter if they fall from the tree, be careful that tinsel doesn’t become a sparkly tug toy!

Another big part of Christmas is the food. We need to be really careful with our Christmas fayre so that we don’t give our dogs a chance to swipe a mince pie off of the table or a selection box full of chocolate treats. Some of the foods that are poisonous or toxic to our dogs are raisins and sultanas, grapes, onions, chocolate, alcohol, walnuts, macadamia nuts and xylitol (a natural sweetener found in many sugar-free treats).

To make sure that your dog can also enjoy a Christmas dinner here is a recipe for some super yummy meatballs. You will need raw turkey mince, crushed cranberries, 1 egg and some veggie leftovers.

• Preheat oven to 350F (180c, 160c fan)   
• Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
• Roll into individual balls
• Bake until golden brown
• Give it to your dog and watch that tail wag!!

Having a dog in your home makes Christmas an extra special time and by making sure that he is kept safe and well the whole family will enjoy this most wonderful time of the year.

Wishing you all a very happy Christmas.

Happipup x