Dog Training and Adaptation

Back in March when the world felt like it was turning upside down, like many others, I had to start working from home… But the question was, how on earth do you work from home when you’re a dog trainer?

Whilst the thought of putting dogs on conference calls and squeaking toys virtually was amusing, it certainly wasn’t realistic.

After some consideration, I trialled delivering the first part of my puppy training programme, which is more for the owner than the puppy, via Skype. To my delight, the trials went really well – again, training the owner is just as important as training the puppy. I learnt that decades ago when I was being taught how to become a police dog handler!

So, over the next few months, you could find me on the computer mostly advising new dog owners. My face-to-face clients have always tended to be in and around the Shropshire area but with the online training, I was helping dog owners all over the UK!

The online dog training was backed up with factsheets, action plans and ongoing support. It was great to see my virtual clients achieving fantastic results with their furry friends.

On top of coaching new owners, I continued to provide follow-up advice for existing clients and also running remote consultations over Zoom and the good old-fashioned phone!

However, as the country transitioned into the ‘new normal’, I had the opportunity to work outside once more. I jumped at the chance to start seeing some dogs and their owners in real life rather than through a screen. Back driving around Shropshire delivering face-to-face dog training… lovely!

I started running socially distanced outdoor sessions and I’ve barely stopped since!

At the moment, my main focus is on socialising puppies who were not able to get out and about during lockdown. I’ve also been putting a major focus on separation anxiety.

Naturally, many dog owners are starting to leave home and return to the workplace. But what that means is, dogs who have got used to their owners being around all the time are now having to learn (or re-learn) how to be left on their own.

It’s no easy task to train puppies into feeling at ease by themselves. But, so far, I’ve seen some fantastic results. I’m glad I’ve been able to help new and old dog owners alike get back into normal routines.

If you’d like advice on getting your pet to adjust to a post-lockdown life, you can give me a call on 07821 192827 or email info@mortsmithdogtraining.co.uk

I’ll be happy to help. Stay safe.