Lauren
@leadwithluna.bsky.social
Dog Trainer
My goal is to make dog training accessible and affordable to everyone using force-free kind methods. I also provide 1-to-1 private dog training and dog walking services in Belfast, Northern Ireland
https://substack.com/@leadwithluna
My goal is to make dog training accessible and affordable to everyone using force-free kind methods. I also provide 1-to-1 private dog training and dog walking services in Belfast, Northern Ireland
https://substack.com/@leadwithluna
#blueskydogs #dogsofbluesky #safetyarounddogs #dogtraining #positivereinforcement #learning #dogs
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
Pups n’ Tots: Teaching Kids How to Stay Safe Around Dogs This Holiday Season
A fun, interactive workshop that helps children understand dogs, build confidence, and stay safe this festive season.
open.substack.com
November 29, 2025 at 10:32 AM
#blueskydogs #dogsofbluesky #dogs #dogbehaviour #pets
We Punish Dogs for Having Anxiety
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
We Punish Dogs for Having Anxiety
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
We Punish Dogs for Having Anxiety
Why It’s Time to Treat Behavioural Struggles as Mental Health Issues
open.substack.com
October 2, 2025 at 10:08 AM
#blueskydogs #dogsofbluesky #dogs #dogbehaviour #pets
We Punish Dogs for Having Anxiety
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
We Punish Dogs for Having Anxiety
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
New post now available on understanding reactivity in dogs and how genetics, early experiences and socialisation all play a role 🐾
#dogodbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #reactivedogs #positivereinforcemen #dogbehaviour
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
#dogodbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #reactivedogs #positivereinforcemen #dogbehaviour
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
How to Really Understand Your Reactive Dog
Why barking, lunging, or growling is about fear and coping
open.substack.com
September 15, 2025 at 10:48 AM
New post now available on understanding reactivity in dogs and how genetics, early experiences and socialisation all play a role 🐾
#dogodbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #reactivedogs #positivereinforcemen #dogbehaviour
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
#dogodbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #reactivedogs #positivereinforcemen #dogbehaviour
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
Sunday’s post is now available! In this post I explore consent in dog training, how luring may not always be the best option and how bribery is sometimes actually ok!
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/is-your-do...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/is-your-do...
Is Your Dog Truly Willing? Understanding Consent in Dog Training
Explore how luring, bribery, and real engagement shape a stronger training relationship.
leadwithluna.substack.com
June 1, 2025 at 10:32 AM
Sunday’s post is now available! In this post I explore consent in dog training, how luring may not always be the best option and how bribery is sometimes actually ok!
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/is-your-do...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/is-your-do...
New post available today filled with tips and advice😊
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #pets #positivereinforcement #dogs
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/the-joy-of...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #pets #positivereinforcement #dogs
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/the-joy-of...
The Joy of Loose Lead Walking: A Positive Approach
Tailored techniques for pullers, sniffers, and easily distracted dogs that build connection without force or frustration
leadwithluna.substack.com
May 18, 2025 at 11:43 AM
New post available today filled with tips and advice😊
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #pets #positivereinforcement #dogs
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/the-joy-of...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #pets #positivereinforcement #dogs
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/the-joy-of...
"Drop it" is such an important skill for dogs to learn, it can be life saving, can help prevent resource guarding and it can be used to teach fun tricks such as fetch.
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/teaching-d...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/teaching-d...
Teaching "Drop It": The Essential Exchange That Builds Trust
A companion guide to help your dog learn to willingly release items
leadwithluna.substack.com
May 12, 2025 at 4:42 PM
"Drop it" is such an important skill for dogs to learn, it can be life saving, can help prevent resource guarding and it can be used to teach fun tricks such as fetch.
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/teaching-d...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/teaching-d...
Today’s post is on how to teach your dog to ‘leave it’. This will be a 4 part mini course, because it’s in 4 parts I’ve tried to keep it as concise as possible without leaving anything out.
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/teaching-l...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/teaching-l...
Teaching 'Leave It': The Life Saving Skill Every Dog Should Know
Week 1 of 4: Building the foundation for one of the most valuable skills your dog can learn
leadwithluna.substack.com
May 7, 2025 at 7:11 PM
Today’s post is on how to teach your dog to ‘leave it’. This will be a 4 part mini course, because it’s in 4 parts I’ve tried to keep it as concise as possible without leaving anything out.
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/teaching-l...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/teaching-l...
New post up today on how to help your dog if they struggle with being groomed 🐾
#blueskydogs #dogsofbluesky #doggrooming #pets #positivereinforcement #dogtraining
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/gentle-tou...
#blueskydogs #dogsofbluesky #doggrooming #pets #positivereinforcement #dogtraining
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/gentle-tou...
Gentle Touches: A Force-Free Approach to Dog Grooming
Help your dog feel safe and comfortable during brushing, nail care, and more.
leadwithluna.substack.com
May 4, 2025 at 9:29 PM
New post up today on how to help your dog if they struggle with being groomed 🐾
#blueskydogs #dogsofbluesky #doggrooming #pets #positivereinforcement #dogtraining
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/gentle-tou...
#blueskydogs #dogsofbluesky #doggrooming #pets #positivereinforcement #dogtraining
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/gentle-tou...
Today’s free post is about indoor reactivity, what it is, why it happens and some simple steps you can use today to help your dog.
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #positivereinforcement
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #positivereinforcement
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
Managing Indoor Reactivity: When Your Home Becomes a Trigger Zone
Simple strategies you can start using today to bring more calm back into your living room.
open.substack.com
April 27, 2025 at 10:00 AM
Today’s free post is about indoor reactivity, what it is, why it happens and some simple steps you can use today to help your dog.
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #positivereinforcement
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogtraining #positivereinforcement
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
Remember, you are your dog’s advocate. If something doesn’t feel right, whether it comes from a vet, dog trainer or groomer etc don’t be afraid to speak up.
#blueskydogs #dogsofbluesky #pets #dogs
#blueskydogs #dogsofbluesky #pets #dogs
April 23, 2025 at 8:30 AM
Remember, you are your dog’s advocate. If something doesn’t feel right, whether it comes from a vet, dog trainer or groomer etc don’t be afraid to speak up.
#blueskydogs #dogsofbluesky #pets #dogs
#blueskydogs #dogsofbluesky #pets #dogs
🐾 New post now available on the benefits of giving your dog choices along with advice on how you can you can implement them.
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets #positivereinforcement
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/the-power-...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets #positivereinforcement
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/the-power-...
The Power of Choice: Why Letting Your Dog Decide Matters
Building Confidence and Connection Through Everyday Decisions
leadwithluna.substack.com
April 21, 2025 at 6:23 PM
🐾 New post now available on the benefits of giving your dog choices along with advice on how you can you can implement them.
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets #positivereinforcement
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/the-power-...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets #positivereinforcement
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/the-power-...
Hi! I decided to add a voice over on this article using my own voice, it’s not perfect and it was a lot harder than I thought it would be. Hopefully I sound clear (I think I do).
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
Beyond the Daily Walk: When Traditional Walks Aren't the Answer
Quality alternatives and enrichment options for when daily walks aren't possible, practical, or beneficial for your dog's wellbeing
open.substack.com
April 17, 2025 at 8:27 AM
Hi! I decided to add a voice over on this article using my own voice, it’s not perfect and it was a lot harder than I thought it would be. Hopefully I sound clear (I think I do).
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
Sniffing isn’t a distraction—it’s therapy.
Let your dog sniff on walks. It’s how they process the world, decompress, and self-regulate. A sniffari can do more for their behaviour than miles of leash-pulling.
#dogofbluesky #blueskydogs #pets #dogs
Let your dog sniff on walks. It’s how they process the world, decompress, and self-regulate. A sniffari can do more for their behaviour than miles of leash-pulling.
#dogofbluesky #blueskydogs #pets #dogs
April 17, 2025 at 7:50 AM
Sniffing isn’t a distraction—it’s therapy.
Let your dog sniff on walks. It’s how they process the world, decompress, and self-regulate. A sniffari can do more for their behaviour than miles of leash-pulling.
#dogofbluesky #blueskydogs #pets #dogs
Let your dog sniff on walks. It’s how they process the world, decompress, and self-regulate. A sniffari can do more for their behaviour than miles of leash-pulling.
#dogofbluesky #blueskydogs #pets #dogs
My new post is now available to read, here I talk about the different types of harnesses, collars and leads, how some can cause physical problems and make dogs more stressful and anxious.
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
A Guide to Harnesses, Leads, and More
Choosing Equipment That Prioritizes Comfort, Movement, and Wellbeing
open.substack.com
April 14, 2025 at 10:33 AM
My new post is now available to read, here I talk about the different types of harnesses, collars and leads, how some can cause physical problems and make dogs more stressful and anxious.
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
Did you know, a common yet overlooked sign of pain in dogs is stretching? One sign to look out for is stretching more than usual in the prayer/bow position.
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
April 11, 2025 at 1:46 PM
Did you know, a common yet overlooked sign of pain in dogs is stretching? One sign to look out for is stretching more than usual in the prayer/bow position.
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
🐶 Puppy turning your hands into chew toys? Next time those sharp teeth come for your fingers, immediately offer a toy instead. This simple swap teaches good chewing habits without confusion.
#dogs #dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #positivereinforcement #dogtraining
#dogs #dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #positivereinforcement #dogtraining
April 8, 2025 at 7:58 PM
🐶 Puppy turning your hands into chew toys? Next time those sharp teeth come for your fingers, immediately offer a toy instead. This simple swap teaches good chewing habits without confusion.
#dogs #dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #positivereinforcement #dogtraining
#dogs #dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #positivereinforcement #dogtraining
This week I focus on resource guarding in dogs, what it is, how to prevent it and what to do when it occurs.
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #pets #dogtraining
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #pets #dogtraining
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
Understanding Resource Guarding in Dogs: A Force-Free Guide
Helping dogs feel safe and secure around their valued possessions—without punishment or confrontation.
open.substack.com
April 7, 2025 at 3:34 PM
This week I focus on resource guarding in dogs, what it is, how to prevent it and what to do when it occurs.
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #pets #dogtraining
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
#dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #pets #dogtraining
open.substack.com/pub/leadwith...
Hope everyone's having a good weekend! Sunday's free post is now available on my Substack 🙂
#dogtraining #dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/how-to-tea...
#dogtraining #dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/how-to-tea...
How to teach Sit and Down: Essential Foundation Cues
Starting Strong: How Two Simple Positions Set the Stage for Learning Success
leadwithluna.substack.com
March 30, 2025 at 5:51 PM
Hope everyone's having a good weekend! Sunday's free post is now available on my Substack 🙂
#dogtraining #dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/how-to-tea...
#dogtraining #dogsofbluesky #blueskydogs #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/how-to-tea...
Reposted by Lauren
*Puddles and Paws part 2 of 2* A few more helpful rain tips for my paw-rents for dogs who are not too fond of the rain. 🐾 ☔
#Dogsofbluesky #Blueskydogs #dogs #doglovers #Skydogs #petsofbluesky #dogsky #Rain
#Dogsofbluesky #Blueskydogs #dogs #doglovers #Skydogs #petsofbluesky #dogsky #Rain
March 24, 2025 at 11:23 PM
*Puddles and Paws part 2 of 2* A few more helpful rain tips for my paw-rents for dogs who are not too fond of the rain. 🐾 ☔
#Dogsofbluesky #Blueskydogs #dogs #doglovers #Skydogs #petsofbluesky #dogsky #Rain
#Dogsofbluesky #Blueskydogs #dogs #doglovers #Skydogs #petsofbluesky #dogsky #Rain
#catsofbluesky #blackcats #blueskycats #petsofbluesky #rescuecat #cats #pets
substack.com/@leadwithlun...
substack.com/@leadwithlun...
Lauren McKnight on Substack
Something a bit different to my dog related posts. Meet my wee cat Pandora aka Panda ♥️ she's pure black and now nearly 12 years old, she turned up in my garden one night as a stray in 2013 so of cour...
substack.com
March 24, 2025 at 8:33 PM
Free post available on the benefits positive reinforcement 🐾
#dogsofbluesky #dogs #dogtraining #doglovers
substack.com/@leadwithlun...
#dogsofbluesky #dogs #dogtraining #doglovers
substack.com/@leadwithlun...
The Science & Success of Positive Reinforcement: Why Modern Dog Training Works
Welcome!
substack.com
March 24, 2025 at 11:38 AM
Free post available on the benefits positive reinforcement 🐾
#dogsofbluesky #dogs #dogtraining #doglovers
substack.com/@leadwithlun...
#dogsofbluesky #dogs #dogtraining #doglovers
substack.com/@leadwithlun...
Sunday's free post is now available on my Substack 🙂
#dogtraining #dogbehaviour #caninebodylanguage #positivereinforcement #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/what-your-...
#dogtraining #dogbehaviour #caninebodylanguage #positivereinforcement #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/what-your-...
What Your Dog’s Body Language Really Means
How to Read Your Dog’s Signals for a Happier, Safer, and Stronger Relationship
leadwithluna.substack.com
March 23, 2025 at 4:45 PM
Sunday's free post is now available on my Substack 🙂
#dogtraining #dogbehaviour #caninebodylanguage #positivereinforcement #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/what-your-...
#dogtraining #dogbehaviour #caninebodylanguage #positivereinforcement #dogs #pets
leadwithluna.substack.com/p/what-your-...
Here's a photo of Luna when she was just a puppy, this was taken just a few days after we adopted her 🥰
#colliecross #puppy #cutedogs
#colliecross #puppy #cutedogs
March 22, 2025 at 5:36 PM
Here's a photo of Luna when she was just a puppy, this was taken just a few days after we adopted her 🥰
#colliecross #puppy #cutedogs
#colliecross #puppy #cutedogs
The benefits of play and letting the Wookie win 🐕
substack.com/@leadwithlun...
#dogtraining #canineenrichment #doglovers #dogs
substack.com/@leadwithlun...
#dogtraining #canineenrichment #doglovers #dogs
Lauren McKnight on Substack
The Hidden Power of Play (And Letting Your Dog Win)
Play isn't just fun—it's essential for your dog's wellbeing. Those daily play sessions provide:
Physical health: Maintaining fitness and healthy w...
substack.com
March 20, 2025 at 7:44 PM
The benefits of play and letting the Wookie win 🐕
substack.com/@leadwithlun...
#dogtraining #canineenrichment #doglovers #dogs
substack.com/@leadwithlun...
#dogtraining #canineenrichment #doglovers #dogs