Dog Training the Glenturret Way

11/11/2025

Here are Some Top Mental Stimulation Games for Dogs
1. The Sniff & Seek Game (Nose Work)
Hide treats around the house or garden and encourage your dog to “find it.”
Why it works: A dog’s nose is their superpower — scent games provide deep mental enrichment and reduce anxiety. (Studies show scent work lowers cortisol and heart rate in dogs.)
2. Puzzle Toys & Food Dispensers
Try a KONG, Lick Mat, or puzzle feeder where your dog has to work to release treats.
Why it works: Problem-solving toys activate the prefrontal cortex — the same part of the brain used in training and social interaction.
3. “Which Hand?” Game
Hide a treat in one hand and let your dog sniff to guess.
Why it works: Builds focus and impulse control, plus it’s easy and fun.
4. Name the Toy
Start teaching your dog the names of their toys. (“Get the ball,” “Find Teddy.”)
Why it works: Cognitive training like this strengthens memory and communication — and some dogs can learn 100+ words!
5. DIY Obstacle Course
Use cushions, chairs, broomsticks, and boxes to create a simple agility course indoors.
Why it works: Combines mental and physical exercise while boosting confidence.
6. The “Shell Game”
Hide a treat under one of three cups, shuffle them, and let your dog choose.
Why it works: Enhances concentration and problem-solving.
7. Training Refreshers
Teach a new trick or revisit old ones with a twist (e.g., “spin,” “touch,” “crawl”).
Why it works: Short, positive training sessions build trust and mental stamina
Tip: Even 10–15 minutes of mental work can tire your dog out as much as a 30-minute walk and often leaves them calmer and more content.
Andrew Durrant.

11/11/2025

Why mental stimulation matters — and sometimes more than just exercise
When we think of our dogs staying happy and healthy, the first thing that often comes to mind is a long walk or a good run. Don’t get me wrong—physical exercise is absolutely important. But what’s often overlooked is how much our dogs’ minds need to be engaged too. In fact, mental stimulation can be just as important—sometimes even more so—than exercise alone.
Here’s why:
• Dogs are smart creatures who thrive on problem-solving, novelty, and use of their senses. Merely walking the same route every day doesn’t fully satisfy that mental need.
• When their minds aren’t challenged, dogs can become bored, stressed, frustrated or exhibit unwanted behaviours (chewing, barking, pacing). A study found that dogs with little mental enrichment had a higher incidence of behavioural problems.
• Mental exercises—training new cues, tackling interactive toys, scent games, exploring new routes—can tire a dog faster than simple physical activity because their brain is working hard.
• For older dogs especially, mental stimulation is shown to support cognitive health and slow cognitive decline—not just physical walks.
• That said, it’s not an either/or: physical exercise and mental stimulation go hand-in-hand. The best result comes when you combine both.
So what does this look like in practice?
• Mix your dog’s walks: change up routes, let them sniff, explore new smells.
• Add puzzle toys or treat-hidden games to tap into problem-solving instincts.
• Spend 5-15 minutes of training each day to engage their mind.
• Rotate toys and games so things stay fresh.
• On days when a long walk isn’t feasible, a good mental session might still help them feel content and calm.
• I recommend Sarah Whitehead book Mind Games full of games you can play with your dog.
Andrew Durrant

11/11/2025

23/08/2025

Were do I get my training aids i was asked today, Well
we have been extremely impressed with Howard at fullpip.co.uk. The quality of the dummies is consistently excellent, making them the best on the market. Howard’s customer service is exceptional — he is always available to offer expert advice, takes the time to understand individual needs, and ensures a very quick turnaround on all orders. His professionalism and reliability make Fullpip our go-to choice, and we would not hesitate to recommend them to others. Take a look at Howards Webb site
fullpip.co.uk Quality Quality

09/08/2025

24/05/2025

SOCIALISATION FOR DOGS: STARTING RIGHT AT ANY AGE!
What Is Socialisation?
Socialisation means introducing your dog to the world in a positive, controlled way. This includes:

People (adults, kids, visitors)
Other dogs and animals
Different places (homes, parks, streets)
Sights, sounds, smells, and handling
A well-socialised dog is confident, calm, and easier to train.
When Should Socialisation Start?
The ideal window:
3 to 14 weeks of age – this is your puppy’s critical learning period.
During this time, puppies are naturally curious and less fearful. It’s the best time to teach them that the world is safe and fun.
Early exposure (done safely) to new people, animals, and environments builds a strong foundation for a happy, friendly dog.
Can Older Dogs Be Socialised?
Yes – but it takes more time and patience.
If a dog missed early socialisation, they may:

Be fearful or reactive
Avoid new people or dogs
Get anxious in new places
But with the right approach, older dogs can learn to be more confident and relaxed.

How to Socialise an Older Dog
Go slow
Let your dog explore at their pace. Don’t force interactions.
Pair new experiences with rewards
Use treats, praise, and toys to create positive associations.
Start small
Begin in quiet environments before moving to busy ones.
Use desensitisation and counter-conditioning
Gradually expose your dog to triggers in a non-threatening way, while rewarding calm behaviour.
Avoid overwhelming situations
One bad experience can set progress back – keep it positive and calm.
Consider professional help
A qualified force-free trainer or behaviourist can design a safe plan tailored to your dog’s needs.
Things to Avoid
Punishment or shouting this creates fear, not confidence
Rushing progress – take small steps
Flooding your dog with too many stimuli at once
It’s Never Too Late to Learn
Whether your dog is 8 weeks or 8 years old, you can help them feel safer and more secure in the world.

The goal: a dog who enjoys life, trusts people, and handles new things with calm curiosity.

13/05/2025

one to try

13/05/2025

learning not to swap dummies piper finds this very stressful so i have to keep it as light as possible and give him lots of motivation and not over do it slowly over a 3 or 4 week period

09/05/2025

so some of you might have seen Pipers last video we were working on his delivery 3 weeks on its much better and constant well done Piper