19/05/2026
2026-05-18 Hout Bay Puppy School
Yesterday was very windy at puppy school and we had to put our equipment away because it was literally blowing across the field! 🌬️🐾
We also welcomed two new puppies. Bijou arrived feeling confident and ready to explore, while little Penny found the wind, new environment and unfamiliar puppies quite overwhelming. Rather than rushing her, we slowed everything right down.
Penny spent most of class outside the puppy area, simply observing from a safe distance, processing the environment and learning at her own pace. Observation IS learning. By the end of class she even chose to approach and sniff a few puppies.
Science-based, force-free behaviour and training recognises that confidence cannot be forced. Puppies learn best when they feel safe, have choice and are allowed to engage voluntarily.
Gradual exposure paired with positive experiences helps build emotional resilience, problem-solving skills and healthy social confidence over time.
It is so important not to assume a puppy will “just get over it.” Slow and steady really does create lasting positive associations.
FORCE-FREE, consent based behaviour and training ROCKS! 💖🐶🥰🥳💥
Holistic Animal Behaviour
Lucille Hepburn Animal-Behaviourist
