In this episode, I am joined by Sarah Hawkins, founder of Barkshire Dog Training in Reading, UK. Sarah is a qualified IMDT trainer and a certified Predation Substitute Training (PST) instructor. Known for her calm, kind, and connection-driven approach, Sarah specialises in helping dogs with strong chase instincts, from squirrel-obsessed spaniels to high-prey-drive sighthounds. Her work focuses on giving dogs safe, enriching outlets for behaviours that are completely natural, but often misunderstood.

Together, we explore Predation Substitute Training, a modern, science-led method that channels a dog’s predatory drive into structured, fulfilling activities. Whether you’re struggling with wildlife chasing, over-arousal on walks, or simply want to better understand your dog’s instincts, this episode is packed with clarity and practical insight.

In this episode Cheryl and Sarah discuss:

• Why dogs chase — the natural predatory motor patterns behind the behaviour.
• What Predation Substitute Training (PST) actually is and how it was developed.
• How PST works in real life: replacing the chase with enriching, safe alternatives.
• Common mistakes humans make when trying to stop chasing behaviour.
• How to identify your dog’s favourite part of the predatory sequence.
• Practical PST activities you can try at home or on walks.
• How PST strengthens connection and confidence between dog and guardian.
• Real success stories from Sarah’s clients at Barkshire Dog Training.
• When to seek help from a certified PST trainer and what to expect in a session.

Want to connect with Sarah? details below:

Website: 121 Dog Training | Barkshire Dog Training | Reading

(1) barkshire dog training - Search Results | Facebook

Barkshire Dog Training- Reading, Berkshire (@barkshiredogtraining) • Instagram photos and videos

www.youtube.com/@BarkshireDogTraining

From Chaos to Connection: Understanding Predation Substitute Training (PST)

Predation Substitute Training | Force-Free Anti-Chasing Methods

For questions or to work with Cheryl, you can reach her via:
Website: Chel's Tails | Dog Walking and Training
Email: cherylmarney@outlook.com
Facebook: Chel's Tails Canine Coaching
Instagram: @chelstails
TikTok:@chelstails
Podcast Facebook: We Love Dogs

Katharine's Qualifications:

In this episode Cheryl and Katharine discuss:

• Katharine Brunsch’s journey from sports science and policing to canine wellbeing
• What Tellington TTouch actually is and how it differs from massage or traditional dog training
• The core elements of TTouch:
  
  
  • Gentle bodywork
  • Groundwork and movement
  • Body wraps and equipment
• How TTouch supports the nervous system and helps dogs shift from stress to calm
• The role of body awareness in canine behaviour and emotional regulation
• How TTouch fits within positive reinforcement and force-free training
• What it means to take a trauma-informed approach with dogs
• Real stories of dogs Katharine has worked with and the changes TTouch created
• How guardians can recognise when a dog is ready for touch — and when they need space
• Simple, safe TTouch techniques owners can try at home
• Common handling mistakes people make with nervous or reactive dogs
• How building trust and choice into touch can transform relationships with dogs
• Where listeners can learn more about TTouch or train with a certified practitioner

Want to connect with Katharine? details below:

(1) Tellington TTouch for Sensitive Dogs | Facebook

(1) Facebook

Email: info@caninesupport.co.uk

Website: Canine Support

Dog owners can find practitioners or events like workshops near them on our TTouch British Isles Guild page Home - Tellington TTouch Training British Isles

There are many online courses on the main TTouch page Homepage - TTouch Online Learning Platform

For questions or to work with Cheryl, you can reach her via:
Website: Chel's Tails | Dog Walking and Training
Email: cherylmarney@outlook.com
Facebook: Chel's Tails Canine Coaching
Instagram: @chelstails
TikTok:@chelstails
Podcast Facebook: We Love Dogs

In today's episode I chat with James Hedges. James is a member of the IMDT and IAABC.

Based down in South East England, James specialises in helping owners and dogs rebuild confidence, trust and calmness.

Walking a reactive dog can feel lonely, frustrating and emotionally draining - but your not alone.

In this episode Cheryl and James discuss:

• What reactivity actually is — and how it differs from aggression or disobedience
• The emotional and physiological reasons dogs react
• Why punishment or correction often make reactivity worse
• Practical, kind strategies to help reactive dogs feel safe and confident
• How to support yourself emotionally as the owner of a reactive dog
• The importance of shifting from control to understanding
• Real-life insights from James’s work with reactive dogs and their families

This episode is for:

• Anyone living with or training a reactive dog
• Owners who feel judged, embarrassed, or alone on walks
• People who want to replace frustration with understanding and connection

Reactivity isn’t a reflection of failure — it’s communication.

With compassion, patience, and the right support, calmer days are possible.

Want to connect with James? details below:

Website: Dog Trainer James - Welcome

Email: dogtrainerjames@gmail.com

Facebook

Instagram: @dogtrainerjames

For questions or to work with Cheryl, you can reach her via:
Website: Chel's Tails | Dog Walking and Training
Email: cherylmarney@outlook.com
Facebook: Chel's Tails Canine Coaching
Instagram: @chelstails
TikTok:@chelstails
Podcast Facebook: We Love Dogs