The Dog Blog!

Here you find collected information, updates on the latest techniques, tips and knowledge concerning your Dog's all round health and wellbeing.

Topics may be seasonal too and will be added throughout the year.

Have an idea for me to investigate and write up my findings?

Drop me a line HERE

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Behaviour
Calmness
Disengagement
Dog Health
Enrichment
Pulling On Lead
Reactivity
Separation Anxiety
Stop Barking
Stop Lunging
Uncategorised

Finding Calm in Yellow at DogFest Bristol with My Anxious Dog

By A Pawsitive Step | 7 September 2025

Travel with Your Dog: The Universal Checklist (UK & Abroad)

By A Pawsitive Step | 16 August 2025

What is Concept Training for Dogs?

By A Pawsitive Step | 29 July 2025

Hot Dogs & Frazzled Feelings; 6 Degrees of behavioural Heat Stress in Dogs.

By A Pawsitive Step | 16 July 2025

In the Press: A week of recognition for A Pawsitive Step

By A Pawsitive Step | 13 June 2025

The Nose knows! Unleash your Dog’s Sniffer Power in Malmesbury

By A Pawsitive Step | 6 March 2025

Money Saving through Considered Dog Choices

By A Pawsitive Step | 30 April 2024

Dogs & Noise reactivity ‘Remember, remember, the Fifth of November…’

By A Pawsitive Step | 7 September 2023

“…And don’t it feel good!” Top tips to keep your dog cool when things hot up

By A Pawsitive Step | 7 June 2023

Walking on Sunshine? Your Dog would rather not! Here’s why…

By A Pawsitive Step | 31 May 2023

Richard Black

Catriona came to our house to visit the 14 week old cockapoo puppy in our home environment. We explained that she barks when she goes in her pen and jumps up a lot. Catriona explained the importance of rewarding the behaviour we want while ignoring behaviour we don’t. She taught us the ‘Mouse Game’ (she can explain). We did as we were taught and the puppy is completely reformed character at bed time. BTW, this happened immediately. So Catriona made a big difference in one visit, and we look forward to receiving more support from her.

Bill and Alix Wootten

I have nothing but good things to say about A Pawsitive Step - Catriona really understands dogs on a level I’ve not come across before. She helped us read our anxious dog in a different way, and gave us so many games and support to help her. We’ve made so much progress and it’s all thanks to this wonderful kind and dog based approach. No slip leads, correction or over bearing, just tuning in to the dog and helping them make the right decisions and build their confidence.

Rachel Mcmeekin

We first met catriona three years ago with our first dachshund puppy. She attended puppy and teenager lessons and we credit catriona with our dog now off lead walking, calm in pubs and cafes and shops and having the most lovely temperament you could wish for your family dog. Most recently, catriona has helped us with our newest boy dachshund with his anxiety and reactiveness around other dogs by really getting into the root of his problems (IVDD and possible diet issues). She has given us saucy amazing advise with we are now so positive about his quality of life . Both our dogs love catriona and we would recommend her to anyone within the Chippenham area to see her before anyone else.

Alex Hudd

I have been so impressed with Catriona’s knowledge and understanding. She approaches dog behaviour from a holistic point of view, looking at root reasons for the outward behaviour not simply trying to train them out of it with treats and diversionary methods. She explains the methods and games she would like you to try very clearly and the reasons behind them, ie what it’s retraining the dog to understand or how it’s making them feel emotionally (safer, useful, calmer). Her approach is also practical and manageable in terms of time and fitting into your daily life. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Catriona and a Pawsitive Step

Hilary Turnell

I have found mantrailing with Betsy so rewarding and how connected you are with your dog. I go every two weeks and by doing this regularly you and your dog grow in confidence and you become so proud of your dog. Catriona is there with you every step of the way with her excellent teaching and encouragement. Thank you Catriona.

Monika C

I wanted to say a huge thank you to Catriona for helping our beautiful girl, Molly, to become the best version of herself. Molly attended classes for misbehaved “teenage” dogs. Catriona has shown us ways through play and consistency how to work with Molly, day after day, to slowly overcome her aggression, anxiety and phobias. Molly has now transformed from an anxious rescued dog into a confident, trusting and loving member of our family. Thank you Catriona and A Pawsitive Step. Monika&Roland&Molly

Ben Harris

We couldn't be happier with Catriona's dog training services! Her expertise, patience, and genuine love for animals truly shine through in every session. Our dog has made progress in obedience and behavior thanks to her tailored approach. Highly recommend Catriona for anyone looking to improve their dog's behaviour !

Doggy Playschool Company

Wonderful trainer. Catronias dedication and passion for understanding dog behaviour is evident and through reward based games and exercises builds confidence for both dog and owner whatever the issue - I would highly recommended Catronia

Charlie Farrington

Catriona has been a great help in getting my rescue Lola feeling more comfortable and confident in her new life. We have made great strides forward in just a short amount of time thanks to the tools and training Catriona has shown us. We are looking forward to continuing this with some of the other courses on offer, cannot recommend A Pawsitive Step enough!

Kaile Bowsher

I booked a few 1 2 1 sessions with Catriona, she came to my home and really got a feel for the chaos of family life, 2 children under 4 yrs, that our miniature dachshund has had to put up with. Catriona was so understanding, this really reassured me that the training I was managing to getting in, was actually helping. What I needed was support and physical training, not just watching youtube, someone I could talk to and ask questions. Catriona ticked all these boxes. I still have lots to work on but in the 4 weeks I have been having these sessions we have managed to re introduce a pen, Dexter has learnt games, and the barking is reducing. Thank you Catriona, you are a joy to have in my home.

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