All Posts

This blog is about why recall can feel almost impossible at times, and why it’s so worth the effort. When you and your dog finally crack it together, it’s one of the most rewarding parts of your relationship.

In this post, I want to share what the experience was like, the people I met, and what this recognition truly means as I continue to build Barkshire Dog Training.

Barkshire Dog Training wins Theo Paphitis (Small Business Sunday) award In this post, you'll learn what SBS is, how I went about winning, and why this recognition matters for you and your dog.

Bringing home a second dog is exciting, but that first meeting matters, using some of Reading's parks and green spaces can help those initial meetings. In this guide, we'll explore how to introduce two dogs in a way that builds trust, reduces stress, and sets the stage for a harmonious life together. With simple steps, local advice for Reading and Berkshire families, and the real story of Poppy's and Manu's experience when they met some doggy friends, you'll feel ready to ma

If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Why won’t my dog come back?” or searching “How do I build a reliable recall?”, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common — and most emotionally charged — questions dog guardians ask. Before we jump into techniques and training plans, let’s pause and look at recall from your dog’s point of view. Because reliable recall doesn’t start with control — it starts with understanding.

This year was all about enriching our dogs’ lives in kind, thoughtful, and joyful ways — here’s a look back at the standout conversations, ideas, and connections we shared in 2025.

Interactive play isn’t just about burning off energy—it’s a powerful, joyful way to build trust, improve focus, and reinforce positive behaviours. In this blog, I’ll share how play can transform your training, deepen your bond, and bring more fun, patience, and connection into everyday life.

In this blog, I share what I believe dogs really want for Christmas through real moments with Manu and Poppy: clarity, patience, balance, emotional support and play. From using consistent cues to create safety, to helping dogs regulate their big feelings, to choosing rest as carefully as we choose adventure, this is about giving our dogs the gifts that last far beyond December. Gentle, practical, and deeply connected — just as our relationship with them should be.

In this blog, I share how Predation Substitute Training (PST) transformed my relationship with my own dog, Poppy. Rather than trying to stop her hunting instincts, I learned to work with them—giving her safe, structured ways to express behaviours like stalking, chasing, and dissecting.

Many reasons why enclosed fields are more than just ‘a place to run’ — they’re spaces for safety, decompression, learning, and deepening your connection with your dog. Whether you’re navigating big feelings or simply seeking more freedom in your routine, secure dog fields offer something special for every dog–human duo.

Thinking about getting a second dog? Whether you’re feeling excited, uncertain, or just exploring the idea, this blog will help you decide if now is the right time — not just for you, but for your current dog too. With kind, practical guidance and personal insights from life here in Reading, Berkshire, you’ll explore the emotional and lifestyle factors to consider before adding a second dog to your family.

As fireworks begin lighting up the skies across Reading and beyond—from Diwali to Bonfire Night and New Year’s Eve—many dogs will be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or frightened. This gentle guide is packed with practical, positive steps to help your dog feel safe, supported, and understood during the noisy months ahead.

Inspired by community in Berkshire & guided by values Ever wondered how Barkshire Dog Training got its name? Spoiler: it involves a rainy Welsh holiday, a forgotten antique map, and a lightbulb moment I’ll never forget. This blog isn’t just about a name — it’s about the heart behind the business, the values that guide my work, and how a spark of inspiration turned into something truly meaningful.

Summary: Discover Caversham’s most dog welcoming spots Planning a day out with your dog in Caversham? This guide highlights the best...

Whether your dog is heading into surgery or you're caring for them post-op, I hope this story offers reassurance, practical tips, and above all, the reminder that with a little patience, connection, and kindness, healing becomes a time to nurture trust — not just recover from a procedure.

In this blog, I’m sharing the journey of Benji — a rescue dog living in Reading, Berkshire — and how his family went from feeling...

Summary Knowing what to buy — and where to get it — can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a new dog owner. Harnesses come in all...

Bringing a puppy home is often painted as pure joy—floppy ears, playful Zoomies, and snuggly evenings on the sofa. And while there are moments like that, the truth is that puppy life can also feel overwhelming, emotional, and downright exhausting.

Whether you're working from home, under the weather, or simply having a duvet day, enrichment offers simple, meaningful ways to keep your dog happy, calm, and mentally fulfilled—no long walks or intense training required. In this blog, I’ll share easy-to-prepare ideas that bring fun and focus into everyday life, helping you build connection and confidence, even when time is short. 🐾 What do you do when… It’s 8:30am. You’ve got a full workday ahead in Reading, the rain is pou

Struggling with a dog who’s wild around wildlife? Does a single squirrel sighting turn your woodland stroll into a tug-of-war? You’re not alone.