If you’ve ever wondered “how to train a touch command” or “how to train my dog touch”, this step-by-step guide will walk you through exactly how to do it.

At ASCENDK9, we help owners in Harlow, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertford, Epping and across Essex use fun, practical training like this to make life with their dogs easier and more enjoyable.

We’ve put together our top 5 favourite dog-friendly spots in Bishop’s Stortford where you can practise everything from calm settling to socialisation - all while enjoying great coffee, welcoming atmospheres, and even some tasty dog treats!

In this post, we’ll explore why traditional puppy-only classes might not always be the best fit, how mixing ages benefits your pup’s development, and how our tailored RISE:BASE group obedience class is designed to support dogs of all ages and stages - including puppies.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Want a motivated, active, thinking dog? Build your training around these three pillars

Clear communication is the foundation of effective dog training. One of the most powerful tools you can use is a dog marker word. Understanding what a marker word is in dog training, and how to implement both terminal marker words and continuation markers, can drastically improve your dog’s focus, responsiveness, and learning speed.

Puppy socialisation is one of the most important parts of early puppy training - yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Many people assume a “well-socialised” puppy is the one who rushes up to greet every dog and every person. But in reality, the goal is quite different.