We’re so pleased to announce that we have a new stockist!

You can now find a selection of our products at The Dog Spot at their new premises at Drapers Yard in Chichester!

The Dog Spot is a treasure trove of dog related products and gifts as well as lovely homewares. Not only that but The Dog Spot’s owner Emma is an experienced dog trainer!

As you know we always have a soft spot for canine companions, so we jumped at the chance to ask the owner of The Dog Spot, Emma, a few questions about her interesting new venture at Draper’s Yard.

“So tell me about your new shop venture!

I have been a dog trainer based in West Sussex since 2006 and set up my own training centre, Train my Dog, at a local College in 2012.  I closed the centre in February 2020 and rebranded as the Dog Spot.  Sadly, Covid hit at the same time and my plans were put on hold until recently.

The Dog Spot has been a dream of mine for some time.  I have always tried to communicate the important links between dog behaviour and diet to my clients and I wanted to create a space where people could get the very best advice and products to support their dogs at every stage of development. In addition, I have been able to build my own range of quality accessories, natural treats and products. 

I wanted to keep a small select range of the very best items that support my ethos of natural diet, balanced mind.  Our approach to training is very much the same. Fun, positive training techniques that offer mental stimulation for dogs alongside teaching owners how to better understand their dog’s natural instincts to create a more balanced relationship. 

What is the most surprising fact that you have learned about dogs?

There are so many amazing facts about dogs but I am still astounded by their incredible scenting ability.  From detecting cancer to tracking missing people I think many people would be surprised by what they are capable of in this area!

What are your top three favourite dog breeds and why?

I have to put Jack Russell’s at the top of my list, in fact terriers in general.  My little terrier mix Fells is 15 now and such a special dog.  Terriers are fun and feisty, incredibly intelligent and have energy to spare.

Second place would be Lurchers, again this covers such a wide section of dogs as Lurchers are basically a cross between a sighthound and a working dog.  I have owned and worked with many Lurchers and aside from being one of the world’s most versatile hunting dogs, they are incredibly sensitive and elegant.

Finally, I cannot choose between Dachshunds (all 6 varieties) & Working Cocker Spaniels. While many people consider Dachshunds to be handbag dogs to me these hunting hounds are just brilliant, I love their independent, fun and often mischievous spirit.  Working Cocker Spaniels are so intelligent and their endless energy and excitement for everything just brings me joy. 

Tell me about your first dog!

Our first family dog was a Collie cross from Battersea Dogs Home called Coco.  He also first sparked my interest in dog training and despite practically being expelled from his obedience classes I loved teaching him tricks, he was just a fun, loving family pet who will always have a special place in my heart.

What three key pieces of advice would you give to someone trying virtual dog training programmes?

Firstly, pick someone that is qualified, experienced and supports positive training methods. 

Secondly, manage your expectations.  Virtual dog training can offer great tips and guidance but remember is this is a way for owners to gain a better understanding about their dogs behaviour, it is unlikely to fix major problems quickly.

Next, be consistent!  This is something I always reinforce to clients.  Any form of training takes time, patience and commitment to a process.  Make it fun – just 10 minutes every day of some basic trick training (taught correctly) can drastically improve the attention and relationship you have with your dog.“

Many thanks to Emma for answering our questions!

For more information, please visit www.dog-spot.co.uk and check out The Dog Spot’s Instagram page at www.instagram.com/dogspotsussex