D O G G I E D O M

holistic dog training & wellness

Confessions of a dog harness convert…

For many years, I always walked my dogs on flat collars. It's just what you do right?  It's the conventional wisdom that few of us rarely stop to question as to whether it might be the best thing for our dog's wellbeing. As a professional dog trainer, I've often discouraged people using harnesses on their dogs, as many are actually designed to trigger a dog's opposition reflex, promoting further pulling and lunging.  The exception has...

Dog training – holistically

Since becoming a professional dog trainer over the past 14 years, I have continued to evolve my approach and thinking on what makes a 'good dog'. What does this actually mean and why is it important to really think about who this benefits and why? Of course the foundation of learning theory and animal behaviour is crucial to my practice and I love nothing more than building on my knowledge of this fascinating topic from behavioural researchers,...

Part II – An interview with Dr Isla Fishburn, Canine Wellness Practitioner

Here is Part II of my two part interview series with the amazing and inspiring Dr Isla Fishburn (see part 1 here if you missed it!), where Isla reveals how her work with wolves has enhanced her understanding of dogs, how she has dealt with fear of criticism when integrating the worlds of holism and science, and the amazing world of plant healing and what it offers for our dog's wellness. How has your work with wolves informed your understanding...

An Interview with Dr Isla Fishburn – Canine Wellness Practitioner (Part 1)

After a far too long hiatus from writing posts, I am absolutely thrilled and honoured to present the first of a two part interview with Dr Isla Fishburn, a Canine Wellness Practitioner based in the UK. Those in the holistic canine world are very familiar with the amazing work of Isla and she has been a significant inspiration and kindred spirit who has had a great influence on my own personal and professional passion and philosophies of canine...