It's Training Tips Tuesday and time for some top tips from Alsager Nub News sponsor, 'All to Play for'.

Owning a dog isn't always easy but top dog trainer, Alsager's Julia Hawkins, from Linley Grove is a font of knowledge on the subject.

Julia, a former maths teacher, uses concept training which helps dog owners to see how they can reshape their dogs' brains using games.

She offers tips on her blog https://alltoplayfor.co.uk/blog/ as well as other help and contact details on her website at https://alltoplayfor.co.uk/ shares some special tips for your pooch.

Today she is talking about fireworks - but it's only September I hear people say, says Julia

"But here's the thing - preparing our dogs for fireworks season will take time. There are no quick fixes so let's get started straight away."

Here are Julia's top tips:

• Start playing firework sounds from YouTube REALLY quietly. It needs to be quiet enough that your dog doesn't react at all. Then gradually, over the weeks, start increasing the volume.
• The sound of Taiko drums can be really useful at disrupting the sound of fireworks - start getting your dog used to them now! You can find them here 
• It's not just the noise of fireworks which can be a problem to our dogs - sometimes the flashing lights are and issue too. Does your dog have a safe space where the windows are covered?
• Are you planning to go to a firework display? They are not enjoyable for the vast majority of dogs. Can you plan to keep them safe and away from the fireworks instead?
• Start playing games to help your dog build their confidence with noises. A great idea is to have a box containing objects which make a noise! Rusty paper, cans with no sharp edges, foil, bottles etc. Scatter food in the box so that your dog has to move the objects to get it. Make sure that you supervise this game closely, use your imagination and have fun!!

Julia with her two Romanian rescue dogs. (Photo: Deborah bowyer/Alsager Nub News)

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Interested in finding more about 'All to Play For'? Julia also has a Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/alltoplayfordogtraining and can be contacted on 07913 757304.

You can also read our launch article on Julia here