You call your dog……and they don’t even look at you. No ear flick.No hesitation.Nothing. It can feel like they’re completely ignoring you. But here’s what’s really going on: In that moment, your dog is so focused on something else… they’re not able to respond to you. 🧠 What’s Actually Happening Dogs don’t just notice thingsContinue reading “Why your dog hears you… but doesn’t come!”
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Training Tip Tuesday: The Name Game
One of the first things I like to teach dogs is that their name predicts something good. My own dogs are a great example of this. If I say one of their names, they immediately spin back toward me, lick their lips, and head back to me, because they’ve learned that coming to me when theyContinue reading “Training Tip Tuesday: The Name Game”
What is a Conditioned Emotional Response in dogs? (And why it matters for training)
Have you ever opened a treat container and suddenly had your dog appear beside you? Or picked up the lead and watched your dog instantly start wagging their tail with excitement? Those reactions are examples of something called a conditioned emotional response. What Is a Conditioned Emotional Response? A conditioned emotional response (often shortened to CER)Continue reading “What is a Conditioned Emotional Response in dogs? (And why it matters for training)”
What Is Canine Cough (and why vaccinated dogs can still get it)
If your dog spends time around other dogs — whether at daycare, training, boarding, the vet, or even just stopping for a drink at a café water bowl — there is always a small chance they may come into contact with a respiratory bug. Yes, even shared water bowls outside shops or cafés can spreadContinue reading “What Is Canine Cough (and why vaccinated dogs can still get it)”
Bitches in Season, Mating & How We Manage It at Daycare and Boarding
At Shine Canine, we welcome both entire males and entire females into daycare and boarding — provided they are well-mannered, social, and suitable for group care. Being entire (not desexed) does not automatically mean trouble. It does not mean puppies are being made. And it certainly does not mean dogs can’t safely attend daycare. What matters most is behaviour, supervision,Continue reading “Bitches in Season, Mating & How We Manage It at Daycare and Boarding”
Is Your Dog Being “Naughty”… Or Just Unclear?
One of the most common things I hear as a dog trainer is: “He knows it… he just won’t do it.” But dogs don’t ignore us out of spite. They repeat what works. If pulling on the lead gets them forward — it works.If ignoring recall means more playtime — it works.If jumping gets attentionContinue reading “Is Your Dog Being “Naughty”… Or Just Unclear?”
Why health testing matters before breeding dogs
When we think about breeding dogs, it’s easy to focus on the exciting parts — cute puppies, great temperaments, and impressive working or sporting ability. But behind every truly responsible breeding decision should be something far more important: health testing. Health testing helps reduce the risk of inherited diseases and gives puppies the best possible startContinue reading “Why health testing matters before breeding dogs”
Recall Training – teach your dog to come when called
Training Tip Tuesday – By Tarah Why is Recall Important? A strong recall ensures your dog will come back to you no matter the situation. Whether you’re at the beach, park, or hiking off-lead, it’s a safety tool that gives your dog the freedom to explore while keeping them safe. Step-by-Step Guide to Recall TrainingContinue reading “Recall Training – teach your dog to come when called”
The Coromandel Peninsula
We are lucky to call The Coromandel Peninsula our home! Located to the East of Auckland, about a 1.5-2.5 hour drive from Auckland, depending on where you are traveling from and to. Not to be confused with Coromandel Town, which is a town up the beautiful Thames Coast Road on the West side of theContinue reading “The Coromandel Peninsula”
Choosing the Right Dog Breed for Your Lifestyle
Selecting the right dog breed is crucial for ensuring a harmonious relationship between you and your new furry friend. With so many breeds to choose from, it’s important to consider various factors such as activity level, grooming needs, trainability, and size. Here’s a guide to help you pick the perfect breed to match your lifestyle.Continue reading “Choosing the Right Dog Breed for Your Lifestyle”
