Paws Academy

One of the most unsettling moments for any dog owner is when recall suddenly stops working. A dog who once turned and ran back happily now seems to ignore you completely, even glancing over before choosing something else instead (often something far more interesting). It can feel abrupt, personal and worrying, especially when recall once felt reliable. This shift most commonly happens during adolescence. It leaves many owners questioning their training, their relationship with their dog or...

Motivation is one of the most talked about ideas in puppy training. We want puppies who are keen to learn, interested in us and willing to engage. When motivation dips, training feels harder. When it flows, everything feels easier (and more enjoyable for everyone involved). Behind motivation sits a powerful chemical messenger called dopamine. It is often misunderstood, sometimes oversimplified and frequently misused in training advice. Dopamine is not about forcing excitement or pushing...

When you bring a puppy home, it is easy to feel like time matters. There are things to teach, habits to shape and a sense that every moment counts (especially in those early weeks). Training plans often take centre stage, while sleep quietly gets pushed aside. In reality, puppies need far more sleep than they need training. Rest is not a pause from learning. It is a crucial part of it. Without enough sleep, training becomes harder, behaviour becomes more unpredictable and progress feels...