In this guide, we’ll break down how to get the most from your sessions by focusing on preparation, presence, and practice - with a special emphasis on decompression, one of the most overlooked yet essential pieces of the training puzzle.

At ASCENDK9, we’ve helped hundreds of dog owners overcome this exact struggle. If you’ve ever found yourself frustrated thinking “but they do it at home!”, this post is for you. We’ll explore why this happens, how to fix it, and what it really takes to build behaviour that holds up anywhere.

Discover why ASCENDK9 is a top-rated dog training service in Harlow, Essex. Real results, 5-star reviews, personalised support & trusted dog training classes.

Training your dog to go to a designated “place” is one of the most practical life skills you can teach. Whether it’s helping them settle at home, creating calmness in exciting environments, or building focus and impulse control, dog place training lays the foundation for a more balanced and responsive companion.

ASCENDK9's virtual sessions are live, personalised training consultations delivered via Zoom. These aren't just calls; they're tailored coaching experiences where we tackle your specific challenges, answer questions, and demonstrate techniques that you can implement right away.

When the British summer finally makes an appearance, it brings sunny skies, BBQs… and a big risk to our companions. Dogs and puppies can struggle in hot weather, and knowing how to keep your dog cool is essential for their health and happiness.

We’ll walk you through the what, how, and why of managing multi-dog households, using proven dog training techniques like crate training, place training, and boundary setting. If you’ve ever asked, “How do I train both dogs without chaos?” - read on.

Vet visits can be overwhelming for many dogs, especially those who are sensitive to handling, new environments, or strangers.

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.

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.

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.

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!