The Dog Calmer

18/09/2026

After 40 years working with dogs, Avril Munson shares the surprising mistakes owners still make — even with all the information available today. 🐶💭 Read practical, experience-based insights on welfare, trust and modern training approaches. Read the full post: https://wix.to/2GaFHim

I started working with dogs professionally in 1984. That's over forty years now, and honestly, a lot has changed for the better. We take canine emotion seriously these days. We notice fear and stress instead of steamrolling past it. Welfare and trust actually mean something in this profession now, a...

16/09/2026

More fun at Hylands park

15/09/2026

6 year old Sable male Spitz castrated. Has to be re-homed as not getting along with another dog in the household.
Easy dog to live with indoors, can be reactive to other dogs out but would respond well to some training. Great with all people and other dogs that aren't entire or bossy. Weighs about 10 kilos
contact Avril in the first instance for a chat and see if you could be a fit.

12/09/2026

09/09/2026

Allowing any one to learn through experience by being on hand to offer encouragement and praise in the right places supports growth!

08/09/2026

Some days training feels like magic — and sometimes it really does. Read my latest story about Basil and Luna, two beautifully trained Labradors, and the small changes that made a big difference. 4-minute read by Avril thedogcalmer ➤ https://wix.to/w3I8MPm

Last week, I was invited to dinner by a longstanding client, Sam. This was partly a social occasion, but mostly an opportunity to observe a rather puzzling change in the behaviour of her Labrador, Basil.Sam and I have known each other for many years. Basil is the third Labrador she has trained with....

03/09/2026

So thrilled to share another 5 star review on Google!

"I contacted Avril because my dog was struggling with anxiety around people, she was becoming reactive, and I knew we needed extra help. Avril's patience, calm manner and soft-spoken approach made all the difference; my dog was relaxed around her from the second session, which says a lot. Every step was practical and easy to follow, I understand the "why" so much better, and what reinforced unwanted behaviours. She is noticeably calmer and more confident now, I feel more confident too. Can't recommend Avril highly enough."

The little dog in question is a Toy poodle, it has been a complete joy for me to be a part of her process and watch her blossom.

27/08/2026

🍂 Our September newsletter is here!

As the weather cools and dogs become more active again, autumn brings wonderful opportunities to get outdoors together—but also new scents, busy wildlife and fresh temptations.

This month, we’re looking beyond the training field, sharing thoughts on attention-seeking behaviour and reflecting on everything dogs bring into our lives.

Read the newsletter here: 🍂 Our September newsletter is here!

As the weather cools and dogs become more active again, autumn brings wonderful opportunities to get outdoors together—but also new scents, busy wildlife and fresh temptations.

This month, we’re looking beyond the training field, sharing thoughts on attention-seeking behaviour and reflecting on everything dogs bring into our lives.

Read the newsletter here: https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/1699277/emails/196895942409979831

26/08/2026

6 year old Sable male Spitz castrated. Has to be re-homed as not getting along with another dog in the household.

Easy dog to live with indoors, doesn’t like other dogs generally. Would be an excellent companion and as long as access to a garden would be quite happy not to go for walks. Great with all people. Weighs about 10 kilos

contact Avril in the first instance for a chat and see if you could be a fit.

19/08/2026

What if your dog isn’t just being “attention-seeking”? 🐶 In my new post I flip the script: maybe your dog thinks you need attention — and their behaviour is an invitation to reconnect, set clearer boundaries, or offer safer ways to engage. Short read (3 mins) with practical ways to respond that reduce chaos and build calm. Read more: https://wix.to/8MQ7B0Z

We talk a lot about dogs being "attention seeking." Jumping up, barking, pawing at you, pestering you while you're trying to get something done. Or there's the classic one — they grab something they know they shouldn't have and legs it, fully aware you're about to chase them."He's just doing it fo...