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Daily Mirror
01-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Daily Mirror
Dog trainer warns UK Cockapoo lovers to be wary of 5 things before adopting
A dog trainer has urged anyone considering adopting a Cockapoo to make five considerations before bringing the cute breed into your home Dogs are a man and woman's best friend, they have been for years and that will never likely change. But there's a lot to think when adopting a dog for the first time. There's the obvious ones: do I have enough time to dedicate to my dog? Will they slot into my family life? Will we commit to walking our dog daily? Dogs are needy animals that require love, care, nourishment, stimulation and affection for a happy and fulfilled life. One breed that has tipped the ranks of popularity in recent years is the Cockapoo, a cross-breed between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. They are a delight to look at, with their fluffy coats, beady eyes, and tonnes of energy. According to the Royal Veterinary College, Cockapoos and French Bulldogs are officially the UK's most popular puppies. The PDSA also says Cockapoos have obtained the fifth position for the top overall breed in the UK. While absolutely adorable to be around, many owners can underestimate just how much work a Cockerpoo is, according to dog trainer and behaviourist Shelina Duke from With The Flo. She said: 'Cockapoos are a joy, funny, bright and full of character. But they're not toys or accessories. They need real training, real enrichment and real commitment.' She has listed five considerations to mull over before adopting a Cockerpoo, from handling to characteristics and even to the amount of fluff these bundles of cuteness shed. They're not easy to handle Believe it or not, Cockapoos are at the top of the list for first-time owners. But their behaviour isn't as cute as their looks, according to Shelina. She explained: 'They're incredibly intelligent and full of energy. If you don't give them enough stimulation, they'll find their own fun, and it's usually the destructive kind.' It's hard to keep up with the fluffiness Everyone loves a 'hypoallergenic' dog, but their curly coat requires a lot of work - and it's quite time-consuming. 'Some cockapoos shed, some don't, but all of them need brushing, trimming and regular professional grooming. I've seen so many dogs have to be shaved due to painful matting,' she added. They get very attached easily Cockapoos are very affectionate, but that comes with a catch you should be aware of - when left alone, they can struggle a lot. Shelina said: 'Without early independence training, they're prone to separation anxiety, which is stressful for both the dog and the owner.' Dog training is important It's always rewarding when your dog listens to your commands. Taking care of your dog isn't only taking them for walks, but also training them mentally! 'They come from two working breeds, so their brands need a workout. Tricks, agility, scent work, anything that gives them purpose helps prevent boredom and bad behaviour,' she commented. Cockapoos are friendly, but it takes time Dogs aren't naturally sociable. They need to get used to certain environments and see the same faces in order to fully express themselves. Shelina added: 'They need proper exposure to people, places and other dogs from a young age. Without it, they can become nervous or even reactive. It's all about getting the foundations right early on.'
Scotsman
15-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Scotsman
Is your dog a narcissist? How Scottish owners can spot if their pup is addicted to attention
They demand cuddles during Zoom calls, bark the second you pick up your phone, and perform tricks nobody asked for, sound familiar? Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... As more of us Scottish folk treat our dogs like members of the family, a curious new challenge is emerging: dogs who act like divas. Experts say some pets may be developing a real dependence on human attention, and it's not always healthy. While dogs aren't narcissists in the way humans are, excessive attention-seeking can point to deeper issues around security, stimulation and training. Left unchecked, it can lead to behavioural problems, frustration, and a very clingy canine. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Enter Shelina Duke, an ethical dog trainer who's helped thousands of pet owners navigate the quirks of modern dog behaviour through her award-winning platform, Go With The Flo. A former teacher who swapped the classroom for the canine world, Shelina combines sharp observational skills with a science-based, compassionate approach to training. Shelina Duke is offering this advice to dog owners with a diva pup - Animal News Agency Shelina says. 'Dogs aren't ego-driven so can't be classed as a narcissist in the human sense of the word, but some definitely act like the main character! Often, it's because we've unintentionally reinforced that behaviour. Luckily, we can help them reset.' She added: 'Dogs are naturally social, and many thrive on connection, but when that need tips into dependence, it's time to help them rebalance. It's not about giving less love. It's about helping them feel calm and confident in their own fur.' Below, Shelina shares four tell tale signs your dog might be addicted to attention, and how to gently bring things back into balance. 1. They perform on cue, even when there was no cue Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Is your dog addicted to attention? - Animal News Agency If your dog spins, barks, or does a full sit-stay-rollover routine just to catch your eye, they might be relying on antics to get affection. 'It's sweet, and clever, but it shows your dog may not know how else to engage with you,' says Shelina. What to do: Reward calm, quiet moments rather than flashy stunts. Over time, this helps your dog learn that just being with you is enough. 2. They interrupt everything (including your Zoom calls) A dog poses in a mirror Your dog waits until you're on a work call to squeak their toy or climb onto your lap? That's no coincidence. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Dogs notice patterns. If you react to their interruptions during busy moments, they'll repeat it. It's learned, not manipulative.' What to do: Teach a 'settle' cue using a mat or blanket, and build positive associations with staying there. Enrichment toys can also provide quiet distraction. 3. They get jealous when you show affection to others Some dogs insert themselves between you and your partner, children, or other pets. Sound familiar? 'This is what I call 'affection guarding'. It's not vanity, it's about emotional reassurance.' Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad What to do: Show your dog that love isn't a limited resource. Pet another animal or person while giving your dog praise or a treat, so they link it with positive feelings. 4. They sulk when ignored A dramatic flop onto the floor. A long, mournful sigh. The cold shoulder. Some dogs really know how to lay on the guilt. 'These Oscar-worthy moments often come from frustration. If a dog expects constant attention, being ignored can feel really tough.'
