Activdogs is now Steven Symonds — Dog Behaviour & Training. A name that better reflects the work I do.
Activdogs is now Steven Symonds — Dog Behaviour & Training. A name that better reflects the work I do.
This is where I collect practical articles on training, behaviour, equipment, enrichment and places to walk. The aim is to explain the reasoning as well as the exercise.
You will find articles on recall, whistle work, confidence, muzzle training and enrichment, alongside reviews of local dog-walking spaces. These resources are general guidance rather than a substitute for individual assessment where behaviour is complex or safety is a concern.
These are drawn from articles already published on the site.
Start with whistle training, then look at choosing the whistle itself and how recall fits into a wider training plan.
Use confidence games and cooperative equipment training to make everyday handling and difficult situations easier.
The site also includes reviews of local SANGs and walking spaces. Recent reviews include Canford Park SANG, ByTheWay Field SANG and Leigh Common, and Dogdean SANG.
If a problem involves significant fear, aggression, guarding, repeated reactivity or a safety concern, use Behaviour Support rather than trying to solve a complex case from articles alone.
Behaviour Support is for complex or worrying behaviour. Training is for building skills when your dog is able to learn.