Vet visits can be overwhelming for many dogs, especially those who are sensitive to handling, new environments, or strangers. It’s one of the most common areas where fear and stress can surface. That’s why I’ve been working with my own dog to desensitise him using two key techniques: box feeding and prey locking.

By integrating these methods into real vet practice visits here in Harlow, Essex, I’m helping him feel more comfortable in what used to be a high-anxiety setting. It’s slow, thoughtful work… but it’s paying off.

If you're a dog owner in Essex or Hertfordshire, chances are you've searched for help with dog training, puppy classes, or finding a reliable dog trainer near you. At ASCENDK9, based in Harlow, Essex, we do more than just teach obedience - we help you build a relationship with your dog that’s built on trust, engagement, and real-world reliability.

Dog Training in Harlow, Bishops Stortford, and Beyond: Why Environment Matters.

When it comes to dog training, especially puppy training and dog socialisation, the classroom is just the beginning. One of the most important things you can do is take your training into the real world. Why? Because that’s where your dog learns to generalise behaviours, build resilience, and stay calm around distractions.

Whether you're working on reactivity, starting puppy training, or just trying to enjoy calm group dog walks, your emotional wellbeing plays a huge role in your dog's behaviour and progress.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the importance of reading your dog’s body language, why kisses and hugs aren’t always a good idea, and how certain signs can be misinterpreted. This will help you create a stronger relationship with your dog and ensure that your interactions are respectful and safe for both of you.

It’s not just about meeting dogs and people. It’s about helping your puppy confidently navigate the real world, from loud noises and strange textures, to unexpected situations, equipment, and new environments.

That’s why at ASCENDK9, we’ve created a FREE Puppy Socialisation Checklist - a practical, printable guide to give you structure, clarity and peace of mind during this important stage.

Getting a new puppy is one of the most exciting milestones in any dog lover's life. But too often, the first few weeks are spent reacting to problems rather than preparing for success. The truth is, puppy training doesn't start the day your puppy arrives - it starts the moment you decide to bring one home!

Welcome to the world of cooperative care training - a compassionate and powerful approach to handling and grooming that prioritises communication, consent, and calmness. Discover our free downloadable how-to guide on how you can use cooperative care training for stress-free tooth brushing with your dog.

Welcome to the world of neutral dog walks. Trainer-led group sessions designed to build dog neutrality, confidence, and handler focus. If you’ve ever felt let down by chaotic dog parks or overwhelmed at typical dog training classes, these structured walks might be exactly what you and your dog need.

As a professional dog trainer, I spend a lot of time helping clients solve behavioural puzzles. But there was one piece I didn’t expect to impact my own dog’s behaviour so dramatically: his diet. Like many owners, I started with dry food. It was convenient, easy to portion, and marketed as complete. But deep down, something didn’t feel right. My dog, Kaiser, was struggling with digestion, inconsistent energy, and behavioural fluctuations.

In this blog, I’m sharing my top three favourite places to walk and train dogs in Hertfordshire and Essex. Whether you're deep in the puppy training phase or working on reactivity and focus, these spaces offer the ideal mix of open space, environmental exposure, and safe distance from distractions.

Many owners believe daycare is the best way to keep their dog entertained and socialised while they’re at work. However, not all dogs thrive in this environment, and in many cases, it can do more harm than good. Let’s explore why doggy daycare may not be the ideal solution for your dog’s needs.

In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about muzzle training and conditioning, from why it's important, to how to do it effectively, and where to start. Ready to take control of your dog's behaviour and safety? Let’s dive in!

Kaiser’s journey was filled with moments of doubt, progress, and growth. Muzzling him was one of the tools that helped us navigate those moments safely. In this blog, I’ll explain why, as a dog trainer, I choose to muzzle my dog and how it’s contributed to his transformation.

Reactivity in dogs is often misunderstood, leading to frustration for owners and unnecessary stress for dogs. But reactivity isn’t a one-size-fits-all issue - there’s a spectrum. From mild overstimulation to extreme aggression, understanding where your dog falls on this spectrum is the key to effective training and a better relationship.

Let’s break down what dog reactivity really is, why it happens, and how to manage it.

Picture this: You’re at the park with your dog, and despite your best efforts, they ignore your calls and bolt toward a busy road. Your heart stops. If only there were a way to ensure they listen every time, without fail. That’s where e-collar training comes in.

There are many different training philosophies, but today I want to focus on two approaches: Reward-Based Balanced Training and Compulsion Training.

Crate training is one of the most effective ways to provide structure and security for your dog. Whether you’re crate training your puppy or working on adult dog crate training, the right approach can make all the difference. At ASCENDK9, we’re here to help you understand the crate training benefits and the best way to crate train your dog for success.

Toilet training your puppy is one of the first and most important lessons you’ll teach them. A well-trained puppy will develop good habits early on, reducing accidents and ensuring a cleaner, happier home.

Using box feeding as a training method for article or scent indication provides a controlled environment helping your dog completely focus on the task at hand. The opacity of the box environment minimises distraction making it perfect for introducing a new skill to your dog.