In response to a rise in common behavioural issues among dogs, ACME Whistles has launched The Kennels, a free online training hub that provides expert advice from a collective of respected dog trainers.
The platform seeks to assist dog owners in better understanding and managing canine behaviour, helping to bridge the communication gap between pet and owner.
The new hub was created with input from prominent trainers, including Ben Randall, owner of Beggarbush Gundogs; gundog trainer and judge Jason Mayhew; dog behaviourist Nick Jones; certified trainer Lara Sorisi; and former England Gundog team member Laura Hill. Each brings a unique training approach, making the content accessible for various dog training needs, whether for pet dogs, gun dogs, or support animals.
Addressing Rising Behavioural Concerns
The launch comes at a time of increasing concern regarding dog behavioural issues. According to the PDSA Animal Wellbeing Report, 60% of veterinary professionals have reported a rise in dog behavioural issues over the last two years. They attribute these issues to factors such as a lack of socialisation, owners’ unfamiliarity with canine communication, and inadequate puppy training. The Kennels platform aims to address these gaps by providing free, high-quality resources.
Ben McFarlane, head of marketing at ACME Whistles, emphasised the need for this support: “The stats around increasing issues with dog behaviour in the UK highlight a problem that needs tackling, and we hope The Kennels will help dog owners learn how to better communicate, teach, and build a healthy bond with their pets.”
ACME Whistles, which has a long-standing reputation in the dog training world, introduced the first dog whistle in 1935. The whistle has become a fundamental tool for trainers, and this latest initiative reflects ACME’s continued commitment to fostering effective communication between dogs and their handlers.
Training Options for Diverse Needs
The Kennels offers a variety of video-led training modules designed to suit individual needs. Training sessions cover areas such as basic puppy training, led by behaviourist Nick Jones, and dog walking etiquette with Lara Sorisi. This content aims to establish strong foundations for nurturing positive behaviours in dogs while helping owners build skills to guide their pets confidently.
Award-winning trainer Ben Randall also shares his perspective on the importance of effective communication. “Now is the time for dog owners to take responsibility and train their dogs,” said Randall. “Training means confidently communicating with your dog, which helps to keep them safe while off the lead and enables you to retain control in a variety of situations.”
Randall’s advice, along with the other trainers’ contributions, is designed to instil a responsible training approach, enabling owners to cultivate their dog’s desired behaviours while respecting the animal’s needs and boundaries.
