The Ultimate Puppy Socialisation Checklist (Free Download Inside!)
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.
From Day One: Why Early Puppy Training Sets the Tone for a Lifetime
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!
Cooperative Care: Helping Your Dog Feel Safe, Understood and Empowered
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.
Why Neutral Pack Walks Can Be a Game-Changer - If They’re Done Right
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.
Why I Switched My Dog to Raw Feeding: A Trainer's Journey to Better Behaviour and Health
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.
The Best Places to Walk and Train Your Dog in Hertfordshire and Essex: A Dog Trainer's Perspective
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.
Is Doggy Daycare the Right Choice for Your Dog?
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.
Muzzle Training & Conditioning
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!
Why I Chose to Muzzle My Dog, Kaiser: A Trainer's Personal Journey
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.
The Spectrum of Dog Reactivity: Understanding and Managing Your Dog’s Behaviour
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.
Mastering E-Collar Training: Unlocking Reliable Obedience and Stronger Bonds
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.
Understanding Dog Training Methods: Reward-Based Balanced Training vs. Compulsion Training
There are many different training philosophies, but today I want to focus on two approaches: Reward-Based Balanced Training and Compulsion Training.
Crate Training: Tips and Tricks
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.
Puppy Toilet Training: Tips and Tricks
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 for Scent Work
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.
Box Feeding: A Versatile Training Method For Dogs
Discover the benefits of box feeding for dog training! Learn how this versatile method builds focus, resilience, and addresses behavioural challenges while promoting calmness and engagement in your dog
The Training Toolbox
In order to succeed in training your dog whilst encouraging a motivated, active and independent thinking dog, these three aspects I believe are key to doing so.
Dog Reactivity: What Are The Signs?
In recent years, post pandemic dog training has seen the rise in dog reactivity more than ever - but what signs should you look out for as an owner that may indicate reactivity?
What Are Markers In Dog Training?
Learn more about the terminal and continuation marker, the differences between them and how you can implement them to improve communication between you and your dog.
The Elusive Loose-Lead Walk
Loose-lead walking - one of the top points on a clients’ dog training wish list but also a skill that numerous dog owners struggle to train successfully. Read my tips for successful loose-lead walking.