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Keep tails wagging this summer with simple trick training

School holidays are the perfect time for family adventures, and for many of us, that means bringing the dog along too. Whether you’re heading off on a staycation, travelling across the Channel, or simply planning more days out together, a little preparation can make the journey feel calmer, happier and more enjoyable for everyone. 

As part of our partnership with Le Shuttle, we’re helping pet parents get holiday-ready with a series of simple, fun trick-training videos from Caroline Wilkinson, Forthglade’s canine behavioural expert. 

These five short training sessions are designed to help you build your dog’s confidence, strengthen your bond and give them something positive to focus on during busy summer moments, from packing the car to arriving somewhere new. 

Why trick training is great before a holiday 

Trick training is more than just a way to teach your dog something cute. It can be a brilliant way to support their wellbeing, especially when routines are changing. 

A few minutes of positive training can help your dog: 

  • build confidence in new environments
  • stay mentally stimulated during the holidays
  • practise focus around distractions
  • enjoy calm, rewarding time with the family
  • strengthen the bond they have with you 

For dogs who find travel, new places or busy family plans a little overwhelming, simple training games can also offer reassurance. They give your dog a clear, positive task to try, with plenty of praise and rewards along the way. 

What you’ll need 

Before you start, choose a quiet space where your dog feels comfortable. Keep each session short, upbeat and relaxed. 

You’ll need: 

  • a handful of your dog’s favourite treats
  • a calm space with minimal distractions
  • a little patience
  • lots of praise
  • a happy, pressure-free approach 

Training should always feel fun. If your dog gets tired, distracted or unsure, take a break and come back to it later. 

Watch Caroline’s five trick-training videos 

Caroline Wilkinson, Forthglade’s behavioural expert, will guide you through five simple tricks you can practise at home, in the garden or while you’re away. 

Each video is short, easy to follow and suitable for relaxed summer training sessions. 

Video 1: Roll over 

A classic crowd-pleaser that helps your dog build confidence through movement, trust and positive rewards. 


Video 2: Push 

A fun, interactive trick that encourages your dog to use their nose or paw to engage with an object, helping build focus and problem-solving skills. 


Video 3: Spin 

A simple, upbeat trick that gets your dog moving, listening and engaging with you. Perfect for short, playful training sessions. 


Video 4: Bow 

A lovely trick that looks impressive but can also help your dog stretch, focus and enjoy a calm moment of connection. 

 

Video 5: Paw 

A family favourite and a brilliant beginner trick, helping your dog practise gentle interaction, patience and reward-based learning. 

  

Getting ready to travel with your dog 

If you’re planning a summer trip, it’s worth thinking ahead about what will help your dog feel comfortable. Pack their usual food, plenty of water, familiar bedding, treats for rewards and anything else that helps them feel secure. 

Training games can be a lovely part of that preparation. They give you and your dog a positive way to connect before the journey and can help create calm, familiar moments when you arrive somewhere new. 

With Forthglade and Le Shuttle, summer travel with your dog can feel that little bit easier and a lot more fun.

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