The Labrador Podcast - From Tails of Success Labrador Training

In this episode of The Labrador Podcast, we’re diving into the world of puppy socialisation—one of the most important steps in raising a confident, happy, and well-rounded Labrador. Discover what appropriate socialisation really is, what it definitely isn’t, and why it’s not just about meeting lots of dogs or people. We’ll explore the key skills your puppy needs to develop during their socialisation window, practical tips for safe and positive exposure to new experiences, and how to create your own puppy socialisation checklist. Whether you’re the proud owner of a new Labrador puppy or planning to welcome one into your family soon, this episode will help you set them up for success. Tune in for expert advice, clear explanations, and plenty of actionable tips! Follow us on your socials @tailssuccess for more Labrador training tips, or get in touch to share your thoughts and questions.

In this episode of The Labrador Podcast, Vikki is joined by Jules, who shares her journey with her two dogs, Sunny, the golden oldie, and Deefer, the spirited youngster. Jules tells us about her dogs' unique personalities and training paths, highlighting how their distinct temperaments and characters have shaped her approach to their care and training. We explore Deefer's comprehensive training journey, from an eager 8-week-old pup to a well-behaved 2-year-old, and debunk the myth that well-behaved dogs are simply a stroke of luck. Jules shares her secret to success, proving that consistency, understanding, and a tailored approach to each dog's needs can create a harmonious and happy life for both dog and owner. The conversation also ventures into the often controversial topic of castration, where Jules shares her thoughtful decision-making process regarding Deefer's procedure. Plus, we tackle some common challenges Labrador owners face, from managing a poo-eating habit to perfecting lead walking and stimulating a working-line Labrador's mind and energy. Jules, a professional dog walker, also offers invaluable advice on selecting a reputable assistant to help care for your dogs, ensuring they receive the best possible care in your absence. Whether you're a new Labrador owner or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with insights and tips to help you understand and nurture your furry friend's potential. Join us as we celebrate the joys and navigate life's challenges with Labradors, proving that with the right approach, anyone can create their own 'luck' in dog training. Need Labrador Training? www.tailsofsuccess.com Want to be our guest? www.thelabradorpodcast.com Find us on Instagram Find us on Facebook Find us on TikTok

In this episode of 'The Labrador Podcast,' I'm joined by Caroline from Hedgerow Hounds. Dive into a world where the health and nutrition of your Labradors take centre stage, enhanced by nature's own bounty. A Journey of Love and Rescue: Caroline shares her journey with Labradors, starting with her first two rescues from Labrador Lifeline and Labrador Rescue Trust. Discover how fostering and rehoming transformed not just the lives of these dogs but Caroline's life too. A Special Gift for Our Listeners: Caroline offers an exclusive discount for our listeners at Hedgerow Hounds. Use the code LAB10 at checkout on their website for 10% off. From Challenges to Solutions: Caroline recounts her early challenges with Brie, her first rescue, and how these experiences led her to explore natural healthcare solutions. This quest birthed Hedgerow Hounds, a haven of organic herbal blends for dogs. Nature's Pharmacy for Your Labrador: Caroline delves into the world of herbal natural supplements, from seasonal blends to specific remedies for calming, senior care, and gut health. Learn how these blends, made from herbs, superfoods, and seeds, provide holistic health benefits without any artificial colours or preservatives. A Personal Journey to Holistic Health: Hear about Caroline's journey in the '90s, starting with making her own dog food to combat poor gut health. This path led her to understand the power of herbs and complementary therapies, eventually creating the flagship blend 'Nature's Bounty.' The Magic of Green Clay and Tranquil Blends: Discover unique blends like the Italian cosmetic-grade Green Clay for skin conditions and the Tranquil Blend for stressed, anxious, or reactive dogs. Listener Questions Addressed: Caroline answers your questions on seasonal allergies, poor coat conditions, natural flea and tick prevention, and the pros and cons of fish oils. More Than Just Blends: Explore Caroline's insightful blogs on managing various dog health issues and recipes, along with learning about enrichment gardens and how growing your herbs can be beneficial for your Labrador. Connect with Hedgerow Hounds: Find Hedgerow Hounds on Instagram and on Facebook. Don't forget to visit www.hedgerowhounds.co.uk for more insights and to use your exclusive discount! Join us in this enlightening episode and discover how to nurture your Labrador's health naturally. It's a journey you and your furry friend won't want to miss!

In this episode of The Labrador Podcast, Vikki is joined by Katie, who shares the delightful story of her life with Bailey, a three-year-old Fox Red Labrador. Katie fondly recalls Bailey's journey from a rural farm to adapting seamlessly to city life and finally returning to her beloved countryside. She highlights Bailey's innate love for the outdoors, revelling in activities like swimming, running and enjoying the open spaces. Reflecting on Bailey's upbringing, Katie tells us how Bailey has been a wonderful addition to her life. She outlines Bailey's training regime, integrating daily heel walking exercises, mealtime training, and engaging weekend activities like agility, gundog skills, and scent work. The episode delves into the challenges Bailey faced, particularly her struggle with allergies. Katie describes the symptoms that led to a diagnosis of SLO, an auto-immune condition, and the subsequent journey to manage it Katie also touches on common misconceptions about Labrador care, emphasizing the need for a balance between physical exercise and mental stimulation. She shares creative ways of indoor enrichment to keep Bailey engaged and mentally stimulated. This episode not only highlights the joy and companionship Labradors bring into our lives but also the dedication and understanding required to nurture their well-being. Remember to check out Baileys account on Instagram HERE In this episode, Katie mentions two brands that she uses and likes. They are ButternutBox food and Tug-e-nuff toys. Take a look below to nab a cheeky discount from both brands ButternutBox - 75% OFF Box 1 and 25% OFF Box 2 by clicking this link Tug-e-nuff - 10% off purchases at checkout using this link

Welcome to Episode 35, where we're diving into one of the most common challenges Labrador owners face—how your dog reacts to the doorbell and visitors. Chaos when the doorbell rings? You're not alone! Listen in as we delve into the reasons behind this behaviour and how to manage it effectively. We'll explore everything from emotional triggers to learned behaviours and arm you with short-term and long-term strategies to create a calmer household for you and your four-legged family member. Whether it's an Amazon delivery or unexpected guests, discover how to make the doorbell an event you can both look forward to. I hope you find this episode as enlightening as it is practical. And remember, every dog is different, so take what resonates with you and leave the rest. Enjoy listening!

In this episode of The Labrador Podcast, we talk to Becky about her energetic and lovable Labrador, Freddie. At just 16 months old, Freddie embodies a cheeky personality that has stolen Becky's heart. Their journey has been of growth, challenges, and the unwavering bond between a pet and his dedicated owner. Becky reflects on her experience of adopting a Labrador named Noel during a previous relationship and how that encounter kindled her affection for the breed. Despite the loss of Noel due to relationship changes, Becky's love for Labradors persisted, leading her to embrace the joys and challenges of bringing a new puppy into her life and raising Freddie to be a happy, healthy teenager. The podcast delves into the ups and downs of Freddie's training journey. Freddie's dynamic personality was evident from his early days as an 8-week-old puppy. Becky's commitment to giving him the best upbringing included focused training efforts grounded in positive reinforcement and food-based methods, making the early stages of training a smooth process.  However, creating a solid sleep routine took time and effort, especially as Freddie entered his adolescence phase. The sudden onset of teenage behaviours disrupted training efforts, affecting sleep routines and responsiveness from Freddie. Freddie's intense barking through the night prompted Becky to sleep on the dining room floor for three months to support him through this trying phase. Becks also shares some tips that helped Freddie manage his emotions and maintain balance during the daytime. Becky shines a light on the individuality of canine adolescence. Every dog is different, and every situation is different. But after many discussions with a trainer and a vet, it was decided that castration was a sensible decision for Freddie and his individual challenges. Despite the complexity of this decision, Becky noticed positive changes in Freddie's behaviour after the procedure, illustrating the importance of considering individual dog needs and consulting professionals. Reflecting on their journey, Becky highlights the significance of routine, patience, and tailored approaches to training. She advocates reaching out to trusted trainers and veterinarians and seeking support from friends and family when necessary.  Listeners are encouraged to follow Freddie's adventures on Instagram and support Becky, who has made tough decisions with her dog's best interests at heart. Check them out at @foxredfreddie_ The Labrador Podcast is the official Podcast of Tails of Success - Labrador Training. Visit us on Instagram. - The Labrador Podcast Tails of Success Visit the website. - The Labrador Podcast Tails of Success

Welcome back to The Labrador Podcast, the official podcast from Tails of Success Labrador Training. In this episode of "The Labrador Podcast," Olivia shares her experiences with Mabel, her 3-year-old working-line black Labrador living by the sea in Cornwall.  Growing up, Olivia always wanted a dog, and when the time was right, she got her very own Labrador. Over the last few years, Mabel has become her beloved companion, soul dog and best friend.  Olivia recounts how Mabel was a lockdown puppy, leading to unique training challenges and the importance of ensuring appropriate socialisation occurred. She emphasises the need for constant training and refinement for Labradors of all ages. Olivia also delves into the realities of Labrador ownership, including some of the challenges Mabel has faced with visitors to the house and encountering strangers. Olivia shares her thoughts on the commitment required to nurture a labrador's happy and fun-loving traits.  The episode concludes with Olivia's passion for nutrition, sharing tips for an excellent diet for Labradors and Mabel's favourite food type. Additionally, listeners can enjoy top nutrition tips to keep their Labradors fit and healthy. The episode offers valuable advice for those finding it tough, emphasising understanding your dog's behaviour and the significance of preventive measures. References: www.AllAboutDogFood.co.uk Eden Holistic Pet Food - Use code MABEL10 for a 10% discount @mabel_thelab - Check out Instagram for Cornish adventures and dog-friendly places to stay and visit. All things dog-friendly in Cornwall (and LOTS of lovely pictures of Mabel) @the_labrador_podcast - find us on Instagram @tailssuccess - Find Tails of Success- Labrador Training on Instagram

Welcome to "The Labrador Podcast"! In this episode, Sarah and Amy share their experiences living with their young fox red Labrador, Mabel. Discover their training journey and unique insights into raising a working-line Labrador as a family pet. Sarah and Amy found a new approach to training Mabel in low-distraction environments through the Tails of Success Online Puppy School. They highlight the importance of understanding Mabel's needs and how training creates harmony in their lives. Learn how Mabel found her "job" after taking part in the Tails of Success Online Scent Detection course, which provides mental stimulation and strengthens her bond with her owners. Sarah and Amy also discuss their challenges during the puppy biting phase and tell us how lead walking is a work in progress for Mabel as they reflect on Labrador ownership. Follow Mabel's journey on Instagram at @mabel_foxred_lab. Tune in to this episode of "The Labrador Podcast" for a heartfelt exploration of life with a young and spirited Labrador.

In this episode of "The Labrador Podcast," we delve into the world of training with Megan and her 18-month-old working line Labrador, Ziggy. As Ziggy is Megan's first dog, for which she is solely responsible, she shares her unique experiences and insights into training styles and methods that differ from those used with her childhood dogs. Megan's preferred training approach is positive reinforcement, which she believes fosters a stronger bond between her and Ziggy. She discusses the skills and behaviours that are most important to her and shares how training has become a fun and rewarding experience for both of them. Megan manages Ziggy's Instagram account and explains how the Instagram community has become a valuable resource for advice and encouragement. Training and caring for Ziggy has sparked an interest in Meg, so much so Megan is now pursuing a career in dog training. She reflects on how her extensive research and newfound knowledge fueled her desire for further learning in this field. Reflecting on her journey with Ziggy, Megan admits that life with her beloved Labrador has exceeded her expectations. Their profound bond and connection have enriched their lives in ways she could never have imagined. Through personal experiences, Megan candidly addresses various topics, such as crate training challenges, considerations around castration, and the pressures involved in caring for a young dog. Megan shares Ziggy's love for natural chews and recommends her favourite products, providing listeners with an ambassador code for discounts at https://www.puppychopspetshop.co.uk/ (use code ZIGGY). In closing, Megan encourages listeners who may be struggling to seek support and reminds them that they are not alone in their journey as dog owners. To stay updated with Ziggy's adventures, follow their Instagram account @ziggystardog30 Join Megan and Ziggy as they navigate the world of positive reinforcement training and celebrate the special bond they have formed along the way.

Join host Vikki Sharpe in this episode of The Labrador Podcast as she welcomes special guest Lucy, who shares her experiences with her two young Fox Red Labradors, Ada and Nancy. Lucy's journey with her Labradors has been a valuable learning experience, filled with some mistakes but lots of moments of joy as they have developed and their training starts to pay off. During their episode, Lucy offers valuable insights into effective training techniques. She emphasizes the importance of integrating training into everyday life rather than treating it as a separate activity. Lucy and Vikki encourage listeners to trust their judgment regarding training methods, highlighting the pressure to conform to a particular approach. Instead, they believe in using the best practices for your dog and individual situation. After all, you know your dog best... it's your dog and your rules! Lucy shares her struggles with Ada's leash walking. She tells us how she's doing things differently with Nancy, providing useful tips for listeners facing similar challenges. The episode also covers common misunderstandings about Labradors, essential advice for new Labrador owners, and a special discount from Paw and Simple — a brand specializing in eco-friendly dog products. Listeners can use the code "ADA" at www.pawandsimple.dog to take advantage of this offer. Tune in to this informative and insightful episode of The Labrador Podcast, where Vikki and Lucy delve into training working line Labradors as family pets. They discuss the unique challenges and joys of raising two Labrador sisters and stress the importance of finding the right training methods to ensure a happy and confident pup. Check out Ada and Nancy on Instagram You'll also hear mentions of ButternutBox, Tug-e-nuff and @rexytheredlab Need help training with training or behaviour modification for your Labrador? Check us out at www.tailsofsuccess.com or on Instagram @tailssuccess

Tune in to Episode 29 of "The Labrador Podcast" to learn more about Dennis's health journey, the importance of responsible breeding, and George's experiences with his four Labradors. We first heard about Dennis in episode 10. In this episode, we catch up with his owners again as they update us about Dennis, a Labrador with Elbow Dysplasia. In the past year, George has expanded his family from owning two Labradors to now having four: Mabel, Dennis, Betty, and Percy George shares insights gained from caring for multiple dogs, particularly in relation to the health issues Dennis faces. He explains Dennis's condition of elbow dysplasia and its impact on his well-being. George discusses the use of Librella injections, which have proven effective in blocking pain receptors for Dennis. The episode highlights Dennis's journey with stem cell treatment for his dysplasia. George describes the procedure, how stem cell treatment works, and the remarkable results it has produced. Thanks to this treatment, Dennis no longer requires pain relief. However, not everything has been smooth sailing for Dennis, as he has now developed canine arthritis at the age of two. To keep him mobile and alleviate discomfort, Dennis undergoes regular hydrotherapy sessions, which he loves. George emphasizes the importance of doing thorough research when searching for a puppy. He advises listeners to ensure breeders have conducted proper health tests, as this could have potentially prevented the health issues Dennis experienced. George encourages asking questions, reviewing test results and paperwork, and being willing to walk away if not fully satisfied with the breeder's practices. The episode also provides an insight into life with four Labradors, highlighting the joys and challenges of having a pack of these energetic and lovable dogs. George extends shoutouts to the Stem Cell Vet and Cotswold Dog Spa for their contributions to Dennis's well-being. You can follow these lovely Labradors on their Instagram account @mabel_and_dennis

In this episode of "The Labrador Podcast," our guest Ashleigh shares her story about her beloved 15-month-old Labrador, Baxter. Ashleigh was initially convinced to get a dog after witnessing the endearing cheekiness of a Labrador at work. When Baxter's litter arrived, she knew it was the perfect time to bring a dog into her life. However, she soon realized that her expectations were far from reality. Despite reading books and watching videos about dog care, Ashleigh quickly learned that dogs are not preprogrammed and each is different. The first few weeks of Baxter's nighttime routine were traumatic and stressful for both. With her firsthand knowledge, Ashleigh knows that she would do things differently if she had her time again. Training Baxter at the local town hall proved challenging, as he was larger and more enthusiastic than the other breeds there. You'll also hear thoughts about the immense pressure on large-breed dog owners compared to small-breed owners. Ashleigh shares her strategies for keeping Baxter engaged when off-leash, including using scent detection skills outdoors and allowing him to explore and sniff his surroundings. Ashleigh emphasizes the importance of training and routines for a dog's well-being and reflects on how tough life would be for Baxter without these aspects. Understanding Baxter's emotional feelings and needs has influenced Ashleigh's life to the point where she changed her job to accommodate her furry companion better. This change allowed her to truly get to know Baxter, learn about his personality, and provide the best possible care for him. Finally, Ashleigh offers valuable advice to listeners based on her experiences. She encourages others to be prepared for the challenges of owning a dog, to recognize that every dog is unique, and to prioritize understanding their emotional needs. Ashleigh's journey with Baxter has taught her the importance of adapting to her dog's personality and providing him with the best life possible. Tune in to "The Labrador Podcast" to hear more about Ashleigh's inspiring story and deep bond with her Labrador, Baxter. Need some training support, check out www.tailsofsuccess.com

In this episode of "The Labrador Podcast," host Vikki Sharpe invites Karen to share her experiences with her young fox red lab, Bo. The discussion revolves around Bo's anxieties and sound sensitivity, which have posed unique challenges for Karen as they navigate their urban town environment. Karen opens up about Bo's challenges, explaining how she can be nearly crippled by sudden noises like cars or motorbikes, making it difficult for them to enjoy outdoor activities. Despite the challenges, Karen displays an admirable level of acceptance and dedication to Bo's well-being. While Bo may not be the dog she expected, Karen remains committed to helping her and ensuring the best possible life for her furry friend. Throughout the episode, Karen reflects on the struggle of knowing whether she's doing the right thing for Bo while also dealing with unsolicited advice from strangers who don't fully understand the situation. She highlights the importance of understanding that every dog is different and that getting to know your dog's unique personality and quirks is crucial. To address Bo's anxieties and sound sensitivity, Karen has incorporated daily training sessions into their routine. These training sessions focus on recall, building a solid relationship with Bo, and having fun together. Additionally, they engage in Scent Detection activities, which help stimulate Bo mentally and provide a positive outlet for her energy. Karen concludes the episode by sharing her insights and tips on socializing dogs, emphasizing the significance of recognizing and adapting to each dog's individual needs. By understanding their dog's personality and quirks, owners can tailor socialization experiences to suit their furry companion's comfort level and help them thrive. Join Vikki Sharpe and Karen in this heartfelt and informative episode as they explore Bo's journey with sound sensitivity, anxiety, and the dedication required to support a dog with unique challenges. Show some support to Bo and Karen on their Instagram account @redfoxlab_bo Find more about Tails of Success at www.tailsofsuccess.com

Welcome back to The Labrador Podcast, brought to you by Tails of Success Labrador Training. In this episode, we chat with Sophie about her journey with Cooper, her 3-year-old fox red labrador. Sophie shares her experiences of training Cooper, from the challenges of adolescence to the joys of raising a young dog. Sophie shares her thoughts on dog parks and why they can actually be bad for your Labrador. You'll also hear valuable advice about socializing young dogs and promoting neutrality around distractions. Something that was tough for Cooper, particularly as he was a 'lockdown pup.' Adolescence can be a challenging time for both dogs and their owners. Sophie shares her insights on navigating this period, including how to deal with testosterone and the benefits of chemical castration. We also discuss the importance of training from day one and why it is essential for the well-being of your pup. Sophie talks about the power of social media communities for dog owners, offering a platform for support and advice. Join us as we delve into the world of raising a young labrador with Sophie and Cooper, and learn valuable tips and insights for your own furry friend. Sophie also shares some discount codes for her favourite brands; check out all of the links below. https://www.puppychopspetshop.co.uk/ Enter code COOPER to save https://www.twiggytags.co.uk/ Enter code COOPER10 to save https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CubKitandCo Enter code COOPER10 to save Check out the Socials https://www.instagram.com/cooper.onthecoastline/ https://www.instagram.com/tailssuccess/ https://www.instagram.com/the_labrador_podcast/

The episode about Bonnie- This episode is dedicated to 'Golden Girl' Bonnie, the 5-month-old working line lab. Bonnie and her human, Milly, have worked with Tails of Success Labrador Training to train and navigate through the all-important puppy stages. Milly shares her story and insights into how she cares for and trains Bonnie. Here are some of the insights you can find in this episode: Why training, consistency, routines and creating positive habits from a young age are so necessary. Getting into a positive nighttime routine The frustrating realities of having a puppy Puppy socialisation tips Reflecting on experiences to make the future better Learning from mistakes Expectations v Reality If you enjoy listening, remember to subscribe to the channel to get new episode updates. Enjoyed an episode? We would love a review on your Podcast Platform. Follow Bonnie on her Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/bonnie_the_lab22/ Follow Tails of Success - Labrador Training on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tailssuccess/ Follow 'The Labrador Podcast' on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_labrador_podcast/ Learn about the Tails of Success Online Puppy School: https://tailsofsuccess.com/online-puppy-training/

Many of us make New Years Resolutions, and they fail, often because we don't have a decent plan. Don't let your dog training goals fail in the same way as your New Years Resolutions... your dog deserves better than that! In this episode, Vikki talks about the four specific steps to consider when training your Labrador in the year ahead.  Set a goal Make a plan  Do the work Celebrate your success Get these steps right, and your dog training will take off. Share your success with us on Instagram or Facebook @tailssuccess

Fireworks can be a traumatic experience for many Labradors.  From October to January, Fireworks are a big consideration if you have an anxious or noise-sensitive dog, so this episode delves into how you can prepare, the signs of stress and how to help your Labrador recover. Don't wait until just before bonfire night to listen, tune in and start preparing your dog right now.

Rosco is a 2-year-old gorgeous black Labrador living on the outskirts of London.  Carla, Rosco's human staff member joins us for this episode to talk about some of the challenges of Adolescence, a decision not to have Rosco Neutered just yet, the importance of training and an amazing Road-trip around Scotland. It's a good one... enjoy it! Follow Rosco over on Instagram @roscos.labrador.life

If your Labrador likes food-based treats and chews, you must listen to this podcast episode. We speak with Three Peaks Naturals about Natural Dog Treats, and our listeners can take advantage of a 15% discount when ordering from their website. If you're new to the world of natural dog treats, we highly recommend you give them a go. Labradors love them for their taste, and we love them for their health benefits. Three Peaks Naturals are a small business that supplies some incredible Natural Dog Treats to Labradors around the UK. In this episode, Jamie tells us about his Labrador, Bracken and the Three Peaks brand that now supplies tasty, natural dog products to Labradors. To claim your discount, visit www.threepeaksnaturals.com and use the code "SUCCESS" at checkout... Your dog will thank you for it!!! Follow Three Peaks Naturals on Instagram and Facebook @threepeaksnaturals

Fancy a discount on some new toys?  ⬇️ Check this out ⬇️ Chances are, your labrador loves to play, whether that's playing with their toys, people or other dogs. Tapping into your Labrador's desire for play can help release energy and create fun, but it can also be an incredible tool to help with their training. If your Labrador struggles with recall, lacks focus or is unmotivated to work for you, introducing interactive play to their daily routine can totally change things for the better. In this episode, Vikki talks with Danny from Tug-e-nuff toys to talk about the power of play and how using the right products in the right way can turbocharge recall and build incredible bonds with your Labrador. Tune in to learn more, and claim your discount on some brilliant new toys  to claim your discount, visit www.tug-e-nuff.co.uk and enter code LABRADOR at checkout