From Chaos to Connection: Understanding Predation Substitute Training (PST)

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.

Predation Substitute Training (PST) is a kind, science-led approach that helps transform those tense, chaotic moments into connected, enriching experiences. It’s not about control—it’s about understanding and working with your dog’s natural instincts.

Let me share how PST transformed my walks with Poppy—from stress to partnership.

What Is Predation Substitute Training (PST)?

Predation Substitute Training is a compassionate, force-free way to support dogs with high prey drive—those dogs who love to chase! Instead of suppressing their instincts to chase, scavenge or stalk, PST offers a structured, satisfying alternative—so your dog gets to express their natural behaviours safely and cooperatively, with you as part of the experience.

It’s not about stopping your dog from being who they are. It’s about becoming the person they want to be with.

Why Do Dogs Predate?

Dogs are natural-born predators. The behaviour chain they follow—Scent, Scan, Search → Stalk → Chase → Grab-Bite → Possess → Dissect → Consume—is deeply hardwired and highly rewarding. It activates their SEEKING system: the part of the brain responsible for motivation, excitement, and joy.

This is why avoidance, punishment or shouting simply don’t work. You can’t punish away instinct—but you can work with it.

The Four Pillars of PST

As one of a few Predation Substitute Instructors in the UK, trained by Simone Mueller herself—the creator of PST—I'm proud to teach these protocols based on four key pillars:

• Management & Prevention - Set your dog up for success before they go into full chase mode.

• Predation Substitute Tools - Build emotional control through techniques like the Stalking Deal—watching prey together instead of chasing.

• Predation Substitute Games - Fun, structured activities like Sausage Tree safely mimic parts of the hunting sequence.

• Safety Net Cues - Develop reliable emergency cues—super recall, trained without fear, force, or frustration.

  
  

My Story: Poppy and Me

Before PST, walks with Poppy were tense. The moment we entered Sulham Woods or passed by the Thames Lido at King’s Meadow, she knew there were squirrels nearby—sometimes even deer. As soon as she caught the scent, she was off—eyes locked, nose to the ground, body thrumming with excitement.

It wasn’t that she didn’t love me—it’s that she was driven. I felt frustrated and disconnected, even guilty, wondering what I was missing.

Then I read Simone Mueller’s Hunting Together—and everything shifted. I realised Poppy wasn’t misbehaving. She was doing what her body and brain were designed to do.

Now? We play together. We pause and watch wildlife side-by-side. I’ve learned her body language; she’s learned that I’m worth sticking close to. We’re more connected than ever.

My Key Learning: It Wasn’t “Bad Behaviour”—It Was Biology

When your dog ignores recall, it’s not defiance—it’s dopamine. PST gives them:

• Mental and physical enrichment

• Safer outdoor freedom

• Fewer behaviour challenges

• A stronger, more joyful bond with you

Understanding this changes everything. You stop fighting your dog’s instincts—and start teaming up with them.

Final Thoughts

If your dog lights up at the scent of a deer or the rustle of leaves, PST might be the missing piece. No gadgets or harsh corrections—just time, curiosity, and connection.

Let’s help your dog do what they love… with you.

📩 Want to learn how PST could help your dog thrive? Send me a message at hello@barkshiredogtraining.com so we can arrange a chat about the challenges you're facing and how I can help.

At Barkshire Dog Training in Reading, Berkshire, I believe in Patience, Connection, Fun, and Kindness. PST embodies all four—and it’s one of the most empowering paths you can take with your dog.

Here’s to walks that bring you closer, games that spark joy, and a bond built not on control, but on trust, understanding, and shared adventure. With patience, connection, fun, and kindness—anything is possible.🐾