Pup Talk The Podcast (Niki French: award winning dog trainer)

Pup Fest is back for its 4th year and its the biggest by far!

Listen in for the all the details you need to know and full speaker line-up.

Sign up FREE to the Guest List here

https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/pup-fest 

And make sure you're in my Facebook group http://www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/ 

What percentage of your walks would you describe as calm and stress-free for you and your dog each week?

If not all of them, listen to this episode where I want to challenge common misconceptions and talk about new ways to help dogs that are nervous, reactive or over-excitable when out and about.

To get your copy of STOP Walking Your Dog visit

The first-ever Pup Fest is here - the online doggy festival to boost your start to 2021. Its all FREE and runs from the 18 - 24th January.

Listen to the line of experts, workshops and training sessions. Plus take part in the Wild to Wonderful 4-day challenge, details of the competitions and prizes.

To get on the Pup Fest guest list - click on this link https://puptalk.co.uk/pup-fest-2021-landing-page/

To take part in Pup Fest join the Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

Is it too early to be thinking about how your dog is going to cope in firework season? Does your dog struggle with noises?

Listen to why you might want to sign up for my FREE Nervous Dog Noise Webinar on Friday 26th August. 

You'll also get a free PDF Workbook to create your dog's specific noise plan.

https://go.puptalk.co.uk/nervous-dog-noise-webinar-landing-page/

Today's episode is all about Boxer dogs as I talk to Jo Wilson about what makes Boxer dogs so unique.

They are definitely not a breed for inexperienced owners, so we talk about what people need to consider before taking one on for the first time.

If you want to join the Pup Talk Facebook community join us at www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can find Noodles (and Jo and Teddy!) at www.instagram.com/noodley_noodles/

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

Don't forget to subscribe to the show and it would be amazing if you left a review!

Join me talking to Tom Candy, Senior Training and Behaviour Advisor at the UK's largest dog training and welfare organisation.

In part 1, we talk about working with shelter dogs and Tom's job upskilling and supporting training and behaviour teams across the SW of England.

Rachel Rodgers, of Nose to Trail, is an award-winning dog behaviourist, dog trainer and parkour instructor based in the North West of England.

We're talking about pain and how it can really impact on our dog's behaviour. The challenges on identifying pain and things you can look out for.

She tells us about a new booklet she's just written on pain and behaviour for Canine Arthritis Management, which will be available from CAM from September.

www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/ 

www.nosetotrail.co.uk 

www.caninearthritis.co.uk

https://puptalk.libsyn.com/pup-talk-the-podcast-episode-83-amazing-advances-in-arthritis-treatments

Nikki Venditto isn't a dog professional, but she is not your average dog mum. Fluffage Towers is the home of 3 Miniature Schnauzers.

In this episode we move on to talking about the power of listening to what our dogs are telling us. This included sometimes not wanting to go for a walk.

We also talk about the fun of free shaping. Plus Nikki's bedtime pumpkin flapjack recipe. I have tried them myself and they're delicious, as well as being great for settling a dog's tummy.

This episode is powered by Magic Mind productivity shots. They have a limited offer you can use for up to 48% off your first subscription. Or 20% off one-time purchases with the code PUPTALK20 at checkout. Visit http://www.magicmind.com/puptalk/

For anyone that got a puppy or dog in since March 2020, you may have felt like you should have made more progress with them. If so, this episode is for you.

I talk about the highs and lows of our first year with Bodie. And give you some tips to help you along the way.

To take get more Pup Talk, join the free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

Working recently with a family with a very nervous rescue dog, made me think about the importance of our relationships with our dogs. Whether they are new to us, or they’ve been in our lives for years. Here I talk about a super simple game that helps.

With any nervous dog, I recommend not taking them out for a walk. You can grow the skills they need at home with a variety of games to exercise their mind and body.

I want to change your view of what you can do to help your dog. And make your life so much easier! My book comes out on 1st December and is packed with dog training tips to help you have the most fun with your dog AND tackle any behaviour struggles that you’re having.

Get on the waitlist and I’ll enter you into a prize draw for just being on the list!

https://go.puptalk.co.uk/book-launch

Sadly pet bereavement is something most of us will have to face at some point, whether through death or changing circumstances. It's not something that is talked about enough. 

We talk about how counselling can help and how to support children with the loss of a pet. Wendy also shares how it makes good business sense for employers to be more supportive at this time.

To contact Wendy visit www.thescottishpetbereavementcounsellingservice.com

For more Pup Talk, join my free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk 

Lisette, Co-Founder of the Doggy Lottery, tells Niki about how it all started, how the lottery works and the increasing struggles rescue charities are now facing. 

And it all started with the aptly-named Beauty, her tri-pawed Saluki/Collie X from Dubai. 

For more help, join the Pup Talk Facebook community join us at www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can find the Doggy Lottery at www.doggylottery.co.uk

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

Recently, someone asked me about the steps we've taken to get Bodie to where he is now. Still not the calmest dog around, but we've made so much progress.

In this podcast I talk through my top 10 tips that we have used with Bodie. He can now recall away from other dogs. And he's much calmer around lots of the things that used to get him really over-excited.

I'd love to know which tips you think are the most helpful.

If you need more help, do check out my dog training membership with direct access to me, Niki French https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack

It's Aromatherapy Awareness Week and I'm chatting with Jitka Krizova founder of Vita Canis. We talk about itchiness and summer allergies and what we can do to help our dogs.

We also go through some tips for pups of any age, struggling with car journeys.

To get in touch with Jitka, visit www.vitacanis.co.uk

For more Pup Talk join the free Facebook group for dog lovers  www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/ 

The YouTube video I mention is here https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=_xliOxGJrrA&mc_cid=ba5a0c520e&mc_eid=82a0d8e974&fbclid=IwAR0SbBbo3tPLTAZ2Ha3BbOLT-xmbgzBlSTjq_vFb97ZaDoXiIOpIk2ULRRA

Is your dog reluctant to come in from the garden when you need them to?

Here are my 5 top tips and strategies to help.

Ben Sweeney is the Co-Founder of Vidivet. He describes Vidivet as the lovechild of Dr Google and NHS111 for your dog!

How often have we been unsure whether we should take our dog to the vet or not? Bodie is not great at the vet, so I don't want to take him unless it's necessary.

But how do you know what information online is accurate?

Imagine if you could get a quick response that helped you decide what you needed to do. And to go armed with whatever you needed to help your local vet make a quicker diagnosis.

Whether you have pet health insurance or not, I think this is a fabulous service (from just £4/month).

You can even get a free trial of Vidivet (make sure you enter the discount code PUPTALK).

www.facebook/groups/puptalk/

www.vidivet.com

Part 2 of my chat with Jo Gilfillan about shut down foster dog Ragnar.

Jo Robbens is the Co-Founder of Surrey Petworking. Here we talk about the journey she's been on with her Balkan Underdogs rescue dog, Belle. And the second rescue dog that is on it's way!

You can find Surrey Petworking on Instagram @surreyworking

You can follow the UK-based Balkan Underdog charity on Instagram @balkanunderdogs

You can follow Niki on Intagram @puptalk101

Don't forget to subscribe to the show and it would be amazing if you left a review!

Canine behaviourist, Heloise McCarthy, talks about her work at Wood Green Animal Rescue and the importance of understanding dogs body language. We also talk about the need for patience with some of the most special rescue dogs.

For more help, join the Pup Talk Facebook community join us at www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can follow Heloise at www.instagram.com/thepetdogproject/

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

To take get more Pup Talk, join the free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

Did you know just how many different types of natural chews there are! Daily chews are so beneficial for puppies and dogs.

Sarah Latham couldn't find the range of high quality natural chews all in one place for her large family of dogs. So she set up her own business!

We talk about health benefits, allergies and what chews are good for puppies and dogs of all sizes and ages.

You can find out more at https://friendsandcanines.co.uk?ref=19274 or follow Sarah on Instagram @friendsandcaninesdogtreats

If you want to join the Pup Talk Facebook community join us at www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can also follow Niki on Instagram @puptalk101

Don't forget to subscribe to the show and it would be amazing if you left a review!

Growing calmness in nearly every dog can help with so many training struggles, including barking. In this episode, I give you some quick tips to help. Including how to start your dog's day off on the right paw.

Book waitlist - https://go.puptalk.co.uk/book-launch/

Natural, long-lasting chews - https://friendsandcanines.co.uk?ref=puptalk

Lick mats - https://a-ok9.com/collections/accessories?ref=rYbcILADiwnc

Niki runs through some Christmas tips and games to help your dog cope with excitement, novelty and stress at this time of year.

For an amazing range of high quality, natural long-lasting chews - https://friendsandcanines.co.uk?ref=puptalk

To stock up on lick mats (they just go in the dishwasher) https://a-ok9.com/collections/accessories?ref=rYbcILADiwnc

For A-OK9 Calm supplement to help with the gut, brain and training link - https://a-ok9.com/collections/calm-k9?ref=rYbcILADiwnc

For more help, join the Pup Talk Facebook community join us at www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

There is so much more to canine enrichment than snuffle mats, lick mats and puzzle feeders. 

Have you thought about auditory and visual enrichment?

I'm talking to Kirsty Everard. She's a really experienced dog trainer and canine enrichment technician. Listen for lots of ideas, whether you've got a puppy, adolescent, adult or senior dog.

For more Pup Talk, check out the free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

Or follow Niki on Instagram www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

Find Kirsty at www.kirstyspaws.co.uk

I get to ask my boyfriend Ash, what it's like living with a dog trainer! Having consistency around our dogs with everyone that comes into contact with them can be so helpful.

But not always easy. This is Ash's view on dog training what it's like being shown/told what to do. 

For more Pup Talk http://www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk

To get in touch with Ash email a5h01@hotmail.com or http://www.my-synapse.com

To follow Niki on instagram http://www.instagram.com/puptalk101

Niki gives you lots of tips to help get your dog ready to settle while you need to be working from home (hands up who is attending on-line conferences).

For more help, join the Pup Talk Facebook community join us at www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

To get in touch with Emily Canactive Hydrotherapy Centre

https://www.facebook.com/canactive

www.canactive.co.uk

To take get more Pup Talk, join the free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

This episode is with Amey Markham from The Good Dog Journey. As well as helping with training and behaviour, Amey also guides clients on getting the right dog for them. And the consequences of not making a considered choice.

You can get in touch with Amey at www.thegooddogjourney.com 

For more Pup Talk, join my free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/ 

Pup Fest 2022 had an amazing line-up. In this episode, I give you a few highlights. If you're listening to this before 30th January 2022 you can still watch any of the sessions at www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

The doors to Pup Talk The Pack membership are also open. You don't need to be alone in struggling with your dog. Join this wonderful community and direct access to Niki French for just £25/month.

Ex racing greyhounds can make brilliant family pets.

In today's episode, I talk to Dee Stringer from Slumbering Hound. She tells me about ex-racer Aston was the inspiration behind her business.

We also talk about what you might expect and some common misconceptions about these wonderful dogs.

https://www.slumberinghound.com/ 

https://www.kentgreyhoundrescue.com/

www.puptalk.co.uk 

Don't Walk Your Dog Day is happening Saturday April 2nd 2022. Not all dogs thrive on walks, but what else can you do to have calm and happy dogs?

Here's how you can get involved - https://go.puptalk.co.uk/awareness-day/

'Grab & go' social media posts - https://bit.ly/3iSCBQ9

Join in the home games and enrichment session at 12pm Saturday 2nd April at http://www.facebook.com/puptalk/

Read my blog - 5 reasons why you wouldn't walk your dog - https://puptalk.co.uk/5-reasons-why-you-wouldnt-walk-your-dog/

In this episode, I'm talking to my friend Ricky Perrin. After a freak accident 9 years ago left him in a wheelchair, he decided he didn't want to wait to get an assistance dog. So with no previous experience, he got a Yellow Labrador puppy, Harry, and trained him himself. That's how he tackles most things in life!

To connect with Ricky https://www.facebook.com/peza34 

To take get more Pup Talk, join the free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

In part 2, we talk about frustration in dogs - what it is and why it's such an issue for shelter dogs.

We also talk about balancing the right levels of routine and predictability that are helpful in a shelter environment.

Novelty is hard for lots of dogs, it used to be a useful survival strategy. But it's not necessary now. Why does your dog struggle with times like Halloween and what can you do to help them?

Lots is the answer! This is a really practical episode.

For lick mats I love https://a-ok9.com/collections/accessories?ref=rYbcILADiwnc 

For a fabulous range of long-lasting chews https://friendsandcanines.co.uk?ref=puptalk

For more Pup Talk www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/ 

I'm talking to Becky Smith founder of PetTrailer UK about the amazing benefits of pet trailing for every kind of dog. The positive power of scent work for reactive and nervous dogs. Or that fact that it's just huge fun!

And if you live close to Northwich, Cheshire, do check out the Charity Trail Day on the 5th September, raising money for Pancreatic Cancer UK. Plus there's a fabulous online raffle if you don't live close enough. Amongst other prizes, you can win a flying lesson or a 121 online training session with me. 

www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

www.pettrailer.co.uk

For more Pup Talk visit the free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

Or follow Niki on Instagram www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

If your January needs a boost, join us for Pup Fest - 3 days of free dog training and workshop. 27th - 29th. All for free https://go.puptalk.co.uk/pup-fest-2023/

www.myanxiousdog.co.uk

www.facebook.com/myanxiousdog/

I'm chatting with Sarah Jones, founder of My Anxious Dog. Her Working Cocker, Bella, had a nasty incident with a dog when she was younger and she became very nervous about other dogs.

Working with behaviourists helped, but the clear visual signal of wearing yellow has made life much easier for both of them.

Bella inspired Sarah to set up My Anxious Dog and now has 20th March coming up as #dogsinyellow day. Let's raise awareness and get involved.

http://www.myanxiousdog.co.uk/

http://www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/ 

I'm talking to Jo Milnes about how she got involved in helping an elderly neighbour, who had 3 Springer Spaniels stolen just 2 weeks ago. Jo has spread this story all over social media and regional news. 2 dogs have been returned and she's not stopping to try and bring the youngest dog, Keedy, home.

We talk about tips to try and minimise the risk of a dog being stolen. And where to start if the unthinkable happens. Plus the importance of social media and not being afraid to ask for support from many different directions.

For help with lost and stolen dogs, Dogs Lost UK is a great https://www.doglost.co.uk/

Jo is just launching a new dog hamper and is giving a percentage of the proceeds to Dog Lost UK, to support help them. www.distinctivepets.co.uk 

To take get more Pup Talk, join the free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

How much do you find yourself focusing on trying to stop your dog doing something? Or getting them to do something theyre not?

Do you stop to think about why your dog is doing that thing? What's going on with their emotions?

I'm talking to Andrew Hale from Dog Centred Care about thinking more about our dogs' emotional experiences and just how much are they trying to tell us that perhaps we don't listen to.

Do you wonder what is going on in your dog's gut? Are spending a lot on food and supplements but not sure if you're getting it right?

Your dog's gut microbiome has a huge impact on their health and behaviour. 

Join me talking to TV Vet and Head of Veterinary Science & Nutrition at Biome9 about their gut health test and personalised nutrition reports.

If you want to try Biome9 you can get 15% off here https://biome9.com/PUPTALK with the code PUPTALK

I'm chatting with Becky Baker creator of the K9 Nation app. She tells me about how being overwhelmed with a new puppy led to the development of the app.

K9 Nation is like TripAdvisor meets Facebook for dog-owners.

You can download the free app on Apple and Android. Or find out more at www.k9nation.dog

For more Pup Talk, check out the free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

Or follow Niki on Instagram www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

Nothing really prepares you for when your puppy is going through the biting phase. Their baby teeth are sharp, and it can feel relentless.

Understanding the reasons why it’s happening and having strategies to manage it can, save your sanity and your fingers!

Tug-E-Nuff toys, pick ones with long handles - https://tug-e-nuff.co.uk/?ref=PUPTALK

Calm-K9 Lick mats (don't leave them down as chew toys) – https://a-ok9.com/collections/accessories?ref=rYbcILADiwnc

Long-lasting chews, size appropriate selection boxes are great for puppies - https://friendsandcanines.co.uk?ref=puptalk

Nylabone classic puppy chews - https://nylabone.co.uk/

Join my free Facebook group Pup Talk with Niki French

Natalie and James are getting married and they have a very special reason for their new dog Bertie, a Labrador Cocker Spaniel X,  to be there.

Lockdown has caused their wedding plans to be turned upside down, but Bertie is in training to get him ready for the big day.

Natalie takes time out just a couple of weeks before the new date to tell us how it's going. Like me, Natalie is a Pro Dog Trainer with Absolute Dogs, and we talk about the training games that have helped Bertie get ready.

Congratulations to Natalie and James and Bertie!

If you want to join the Pup Talk Facebook community join us at www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can also follow Niki on Instagram @puptalk101

Don't forget to subscribe to the show and it would be amazing if you left a review!

As Karen's dog Bailey was getting older, she wanted to be able to work from home to spend more time with him. After some research identified a gap in the market, Luxury Dog Hampers was born. 

Karen now has 2 very different dogs. Bertie, a teenage Working Border Collie and Arthur, 5-year-old Newfoundland. So we also talk about how she handles their very different energy needs.

www.luxurydoghampers.co.uk

www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/ 

Stephanie Zikmann is The Holistic Dog Groomer and is on a mission to change how we look at grooming. This is not just about how our dogs look, but how their physical and mental well-being is cared for as well.

Plus she shares some tips on what we can do ourselves at home.

She got a new children's picture book out 8th October, encouraging safe interactions between children and dogs - I Can Be A Dog Detective.

She's also the author of The Magic of Holistic Grooming, a great resource if you want to understand more.

https://www.holisticgroomingacademy.com

https://www.instagram.com/theholisticdoggroomer/

Louise Wilson is the go-to woman in training and consultancy for specialist wildlife detection dogs. With an incredible CV in canine detection handling and training, she tells us about the incredible roles trained dogs play in animal conservation work.

She's also got 10 of her own dogs, rescues that are now her talented team of working dogs - and no, she doesn't have a favourite!

But we also talk about how scent work training and games are brilliant for our pet dogs, especially those that have behaviour struggles.

To follow Louise's amazing work, or to get in touch - https://www.facebook.com/Conservationk9consultancy/ 

To take get more Pup Talk, join the free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

Halloween is the start of a challenging time of year for our dogs, especially if they're anxious or nervous. 

Here are nine practical and easy tips to make Halloween less stressful for your dog and you.

Talking to Jess Barton from Forest Canine Massage & Wellness.

In part 2 part, we're talking about all the small things that you can do to help prevent injuries and  potential longer term impacts on your dog's body.

Zoe Hindle is the Fit Pet Physio and mainly works with retired and active sporting dogs.

But we're talking about what you can do to prevent injuries in your pet dog. Plus simple ways to help your dog heal from surgery or injury, or just maintain your dog's long-term health.

www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

www.fitpetphysio.com

www.instagram.com/puptalk101

www.instagram.com/fitpetphysio 

I'm chatting with children's author Catherine Emmett about how getting a new puppy in lockdown has meant the right kind of appropriate socialisation. Growing their relationship with Maggi, the 1-year-old Black Labrador, and introducing her to calm older dogs.

Dog training has come a long way since she had her childhood dog, Bob. Catherine's new book, The Pet is inspired by Bob and it's out on the 13th May (available to pre-order now).

To take get more Pup Talk, join the free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

Jo now has 2 rescues from Balkan Underdogs and they couldn't be more different.

Poppy found life very challenging at the start, and Jo had many sleepless nights as the family adjusted their lives to help the new arrival settle in and find her place.

We talk about how you have to train the dog in front of you, which can change day by day, hour by hour. And take things entirely at their pace.

Balkan Underdogs would love any support you are able to give them www.balkanunderdogs.org.uk

If you want to join one of the friendliest dog groups on Facebook click here www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/ 

Ash is interviewing Niki about Pup Fest 2021 and the new membership - Pup Talk The Pack.

Doors to the new membership are open until 31st January 2021, until later this year. 

For more information - https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack 

To take get more Pup Talk join the Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

I thought you might like to get to know Ash and I a little bit more. So this week's episode I hand over to Ash to ask me some questions.

Have you heard about probiotics for cleaning and to help with some increasingly common health issues with our dogs? I'm talking to Joe Flanagan, CEO of Ingenious Probiotics, about how things are changing. 

My favourites so far:

Pet ear health conversation between Joe and Dr Richard Doyle - https:////www.youtube.com/watch?v=neqSl4SxOaQandnbsp

www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/ 

• Why do so many dogs struggle at the vets?
• What you learn first you learn best.
• What can we do before our dogs go to the vets or in between visits?
• Avoiding the 'waiting room of doom'.
• Tips for confidence with weighing scales.
• How to hand your dog over with the least amount of stress.
• Avoiding space invaders.
• Help with managing our stress.
• Reading body language in the
• Cooperative care (not consent) and motivational conflicts.
• Predictability.

It's National Pet Choking Prevention Day on 22nd June that kicks off the brand new Enrichment Safety Week running 22nd-29th June. 

Have you thought about safety issues to do with canine enrichment? Like choking or bacteria?

Join me chatting with Melissa and Sophie from Paws In Earnest about their new campaign to raise awareness. 

To listen to the previous episode about the many forms canine enrichment can take - 

Aileen Stevenson from The Perfect Puppy Company chats with me about dogs and new babies. Why do some dogs struggle? And what can you do to prepare to make the changes as stress-free as possible?

After a very popular session at Pup Fest 2023, fellow Pro Dog Trainer Dr Natalie Rogers is back to talk about aged-related hearing loss. She talks about why it happens, what behavioural changes we can see and what we can do to help all dogs as they age.

http://www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/ 

How to toilet train your puppy in 9 easy steps.

Follow the steps and you will get there quickly. Yes, it takes time and energy early on but you’ll be so pleased you did!

For more Pup Talk, check out the free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

Or follow Niki on Instagram www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

Pup Fest is back! It's a free online dog training festival from Friday 21st - Sunday 23rd January 2022.

Listen to the full guest schedule and how you can get involved.

To get on the guest list click on https://go.puptalk.co.uk/pup-fest-2022/

Todays podcast is episode 100 and is Ash asking me the questions. I asked what people wanted to ask me and here they are.

To celebrate reaching 100 episodes, I'm running a flash sale on joining Pup Talk The Pack membership. https://pup-talk.mykajabi.com/the-pack

Calling all Whippet lovers.

Debbie Humphreys is the founder of Redhound for Dogs. She's a self-confessed Whippet addict and author of Life with a Whippet.

Debbie shares some of what she's learned from living with Whippets most of her life. 

It's always struck me about the similarities between teaching children and teenagers and training dogs. So in this episode, I'm talking to teacher and fellow Pro Dog Trainer, Julia Hawkins from All To Play For Dog Training.

Our conversation is relevant for dogs of all ages, but anyone with a teenage dog or a recent rescue/rehomed pup will find it especially useful.

You can find Julia at www.facebook.com/alltoplayfordogtraining 

For more Pup Talk, join my free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/ 

Niki talks you through an easy food motivation worksheet to help make your dog training more effective.

To take get more Pup Talk, join the free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

Knowing a little about dogs' body language can help helpful for your relationship with your dog. As well as possibly keeping them or you safe around unfamiliar dogs.

I also get to catch up with Heloise to see how Geoffrey the dashing German Shepherd puppy is doing as a whiney 1-year-old.

To follow Geoffrey's progress www.instagram.com/thepetdogproject/

For more Pup Talk visit www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/ 

I'm talking to Paula Stewart from The Animal Talent Agency about what skills a dog needs to work in TV commercials and films. Does your dog have what it takes?

This is not just about having the best-looking pup around (we all have that surely!). Animal welfare is top of Paula's priorities and I love that most of the skills that canine actors need are brilliant skills for everyday life.

Does this sound good? A calm and confident dog that has a brilliant relationship with you, their guardian/pup parent/owner (whatever you like to call yourself).

To get in touch with Paula visit www.theanimaltalent.agency 

For more Pup Talk www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/ 

Founder of Our Pets Health, Dr Alex Avery aims to reduce the number of vet visits we need to make with our dogs. By following simple steps we can improve their health, help avoid injury and disease and save money.

For more tips you can download a free guide at www.ourpetshealth.com

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In this episode I'm talking to rock climbing duo Georgina and Petar about how their Romanian rescue puppy Cleo inspired an amazing range of zero-carbon toys.

They've proved sustainable toys can be fun, robust and good looking! To find out more visit:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/cleosrope

http://www.instagram.com/cleosrope

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You can also follow Niki at www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

A personal story from me, Niki French, this week that links directly into helping our dogs to move forwards, especially when it feels like there is no progress.

I'm talking to Claire Harris, Founder of Pets2Places. She tells us how far car safety has come for human passengers, but we're lagging a bit behind when it comes to our dogs.

She also tells us about the role of pet taxis and their increasing demand.

Get in touch with Claire at www.pets2places.co.uk

For more Pup Talk visit the free Facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/puptalk/

Or follow Niki on Instagram www.instagram.com/puptalk101/

I've been on the road for 8 days, leaving Ash and Bodie to look after each other.

They are both the high energy in our home; I'm normally the calming influence. 

I was surprised by how the week went. There were some interesting outcomes.

For my favourite source of chews, check out - https://friendsandcanines.co.uk?ref=puptalk