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I recently had a client ask me how to fit a slip lead correctly. No problem, I thought. I'll have a quick look online and send them a reliable article. Instead, the very first thing Google AI suggested was that a slip lead should fit around the dog's neck and sit high behind the ears. Honestly, I was horrified. Not because that's what has traditionally been taught, but because it completely ignored everything we've learnt over the last few decades about canine learning, welfa

Dog At The Vet In the ongoing debate around dog training methods, one claim resurfaces time and again: that force free training leads to an increase in behavioural euthanasia. As a professional dog trainer, I hear this discussed a lot over social media, primarily from Balanced Trainers. But here's the truth: there is no credible evidence in the UK to support the idea that force-free methods are contributing to a rise in behavioural euthanasia. In fact, I’m living with proof t

Muzzle training is one of the most misunderstood areas of dog behaviour support. Many people still assume that a dog in a muzzle must be dangerous, aggressive, or “naughty.” In reality, a muzzle is simply a safety tool ... no different from a harness, a seatbelt, or a bike helmet. It protects dogs, protects people, and gives everyone the confidence to navigate the world safely. Odie wearing a Muzzle My own dog, Odie, wears a muzzle. Not because he’s bad. Not because he’s choo

Dog guardians are often desperate for help when their beloved companion is struggling. Whether it’s barking, pulling on the lead, or anxiety, the promise of a “quick fix” can sound irresistible. But here’s the truth: if someone tells you they can solve your dog’s problem in a single session, it’s time to walk away. Why One-Session “Fixes” Are Misleading Behaviour isn’t a light switch. Dogs aren’t machines you can reset. They’re living beings with emotions, histories, and un

Dogs are our companions, teachers, and family members. Yet, myths about their behaviour and training still circulate, often leaving guardians confused or pressured into outdated methods. It’s time to bust those myths wide open and replace them with science‑backed, humane truths. Odie & Me - Andy Mills Photography Myth 1: You Must Be the Alpha The Truth: The “alpha dog” theory is outdated. Dogs don’t need dominance; they need guidance, trust, and partnership. Training rooted

At Maple Tree Dog Training, canine anxiety has been a recurring theme in conversations with guardians. Anxiety in dogs is not only common but also deeply misunderstood. By recognising the signs, understanding the causes, and exploring management strategies, we can better support our companions in living calmer, happier lives. Lauren, Rocco & Odie Recognising the Symptoms Anxiety can manifest in many ways, often mistaken for “bad behaviour.” Common signs include: Aggression or

Odie The idea that dogs can be neurodivergent might sound unusual at first, but for those of us who live and work alongside dogs with unique behavioural profiles, it feels like common sense. My own dog, Odie, lives with HSHA (Hyper-sensitivity, Hyper-activity), and he’s taught me more about compassion, creativity, and tuning-in than any textbook ever could. What Do We Mean by “Neurodivergent” in Dogs? In humans, neurodivergence refers to natural variations in brain function a

A compassionate, science-based approach to helping dogs thrive Force-free training is more than a method, it’s a mindset. It’s about...