Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt like your gundog has to be perfect. 🙋‍♀️

Social media, comparison traps, and the pressure to have a textbook retriever can make you feel like you’re always falling short. But here’s the truth—there’s no such thing as a flawless gundog.

In this episode of Found It, Fetched It, Jo Perrott sits down with LWDG experts Claire Denyer, Jemma Martin, and Samantha Thorneycroft-Taylor to break down why perfection is a myth—and why chasing it can actually hold you back. We’re talking about the messy, in-the-trenches moments of training, the power of progress over perfection, and how to build a confident, connected partnership with your dog (without losing your mind in the process).

If you’ve ever thought, Why isn’t my dog like that one on Instagram?, this episode is for you. Grab a cuppa, hit play, and let’s chat.

Are you feeling stuck in your gundog training, wondering if you're on the right track? Does it seem like everyone else's dog is progressing faster than yours? If you're asking, "How long will it take to train my gundog?"—you’re not alone. In this podcast, we’re breaking down the reality of training timelines, common mistakes, and the best approach to setting realistic expectations.

Overwhelmed by endless dog training advice online? You’re not alone! In this episode of Found It, Fetched It, LWDG experts Jemma Martin and Samantha Thorneycroft-Taylor cut through the noise to uncover the common-sense strategies that actually work. From tackling flashy social media trends to tailoring techniques for your dog’s unique quirks, we’re dishing out real talk and actionable tips to transform your training journey. Whether you're mastering the basics or navigating a new challenge, this episode will inspire you to train smarter, not harder—no gimmicks, just results.

What are the risks of sharing your gundog’s journey online? Jo and Charlotte Perrott, a social media expert, discuss protecting your privacy while staying connected. Learn practical tips to handle trolls, share content safely, and create a positive online space for your training journey.

In our final episode of 2024, Jo and the LWDG experts dive into the year’s biggest training lessons, proudest moments, and the transformative impact of the Ladies Working Dog Group community. From embracing setbacks as opportunities to celebrating success stories, we explore how gundog handlers can grow through connection, engagement, and fun. Plus, a sneak peek into trends and advice for 2025 to keep your training journey exciting and rewarding. Let’s wrap up the year together and look forward to what’s next!

The holidays are here, and while the season is magical, it can also be chaotic—especially with a gundog in the mix! 🎁 From visitors and tempting treats to the "tree of temptation," we dive into real-life tips for managing the mayhem with your furry friend. Join host Jo and LWDG experts Samantha Thorneycroft-Taylor and Claire Denyer as they share expert advice, relatable stories, and practical solutions for keeping your dog calm, safe, and happy this Christmas. 🎅🐾Perfect for gundog owners looking to enjoy a stress-free holiday season. Tune in to laugh, learn, and get your gundog (and yourself!) ready for the festivities!

In this episode, Jo is joined by Claire Denyer to discuss her pup Jeannie’s journey with elbow dysplasia. From early signs to diagnosis, surgery, and rehabilitation, Claire shares the challenges and triumphs of supporting a working dog through recovery.

Key Takeaways:

Recognise early signs.

The importance of crate training, physiotherapy, and mental stimulation.

Trust your instincts and seek advice early.

Links:

Join the LWDG: ladiesworkingdoggroup.com

Follow Claire: @clairedenyer

Subscribe and leave a review to support the show! 🎧

In this episode of Found It, Fetched It, Jo is joined by LWDG group expert Samantha Thorneycroft-Taylor to dive into the often-overlooked importance of the release command in gundog training. Whether you're training a working gundog or a family companion, mastering this command can make all the difference in building trust, control, and consistency with your dog.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why the release command is essential in gundog training.
• How to use a release word to improve impulse control and steadiness.
• Common mistakes handlers make when teaching or forgetting the release command.
• Real-life examples of how the release command enhances training and safety.
• Tips for introducing a release command with both puppies and older dogs.
• Why consistency and timing are key to avoiding confusion.

Key Takeaways

• The release command allows your dog to understand when a task is complete and permission is given to transition to another behavior.
• Teaching this command improves obedience, impulse control, and overall training success.
• Incorporating a release word into daily activities, such as feeding or removing the lead, builds consistency and structure.

Fun Highlights from the Episode

• Jo and Sam share personal stories of training mishaps and victories, including snowy day training epiphanies and unexpected canine responses.
• Discover the quirky release words used by different trainers and why any word works as long as you're consistent.
• Laugh along as Jo describes her dogs’ over-the-top reactions to praise, like handing them a metaphorical "box of Smarties."

Resources Mentioned

• Access the LWDG Membership for step-by-step training resources.
• Check out the LWDG Podcast archives for more tips on training and handling your dog.
• Follow Samantha Thorneycroft-Taylor on Instagram and Facebook under Languidogundogs or Canine Foundation for more training advice.

Join the Conversation

We’d love to hear about your experiences with the release command. Have you used it before? How has it impacted your training? Share your stories with us on social media or in the comments below.

Subscribe for More

Don’t miss future episodes! Subscribe to Found It, Fetched It for weekly tips, expert advice, and fun stories about training your gundog.

Upcoming Episodes

Our next episodes will be out on December 13th and 22nd, just in time for Christmas! After that, we’ll take a well-deserved break and return on January 11th with fresh content for the new year.

Thank you for listening, and happy training! 🎉