Pawsitive Play: 50 Games to Train, Bond and Thrive With Your Dog
Part of the trusted Pawsitive Range by Renee Patience
Pawsitive Play is a practical, encouraging and deeply human approach to dog training which is centred around connection, not control. Whether you're a first-time dog owner or someone looking to build better habits without pressure or punishment, this book offers a clear, kind and effective alternative to traditional obedience training.
This guide introduces over 50 reward-based training games, all designed to help you and your dog work together through play, not force. Each game has been handpicked by Renee Patience, head trainer at Paws Academy, to target real-life behaviours such as recall, calmness, lead walking, focus, confidence building and more....all while deepening the relationship between you and your dog.
What You’ll Find Inside
Step-by-step instructions for each game, including how to teach it, what it helps with and when to use it in everyday life
A full chapter on how dogs learn and why games work better than rigid routines or outdated methods
Clear guidance for first-time owners and those new to positive reinforcement, without the jargon or pressure
Practical tools to support reactive dogs, nervous dogs, high-energy dogs, and everything in between
Advice on building a simple, flexible training plan that fits around real life – no long sessions or unrealistic expectations
Real-life solutions for common challenges, including pulling on the lead, overexcitement, fear, barking, and more
Tips on enrichment, relationship building and trick training to keep your dog mentally stimulated, especially during quieter days
A full chapter dedicated to confidence building, especially useful for rescue dogs, puppies, and sensitive breeds
Games designed for older dogs, multi-dog households and dogs who need gentle, non-physical engagement
Support for creating daily routines through short, meaningful training moments rather than long drills or strict rules
Each chapter focuses on a different area of training and behaviour, giving you the tools to meet your dog where they are, and guide them through curiosity, choice and reward. You’ll learn how to build your dog’s skills in a way that’s calm, enjoyable and sustainable, all without harsh handling, corrections or equipment that causes fear or discomfort.
Who It’s For
Puppy owners looking to start the right way
Rescue dog guardians wanting to build trust and safety
Families needing structured but gentle routines
Dog lovers keen to improve recall, focus or lead manners
Anyone tired of rigid training approaches that don’t feel right
Owners of reactive, anxious or excitable dogs
People who want to enjoy training, not dread it
Whether you’re dealing with a bouncing puppy, a sensitive rescue or a dog who just needs a bit of direction, Pawsitive Play offers a kinder way forward. No pressure. No punishment. Just real progress through games you and your dog will actually enjoy.
This book is part of the trusted Pawsitive Range by Renee Patience, founder of Paws Academy, a respected trainer known for her thoughtful, dog-centred approach. The Pawsitive books are designed to give everyday dog owners the tools, confidence and support to raise calm, happy and responsive dogs, one step at a time.
