Freework for Dogs in Hitchin
A calm, enrichment-based experience designed to help your dog relax, regulate and feel safe — without pressure, commands or overwhelm.
Do you live with a dog who is…
- Anxious?
- Reactive to the outside world?
- Overexcited?
- Struggles to settle?
Freework is designed for dogs who find the world overwhelming.
Traditional training doesn’t always address how they feel. Freework supports their emotional well-being and helps them to relax.
What is freework?
Freework is a gentle enrichment activity that allows your dog to explore, forage, lick and chew at their own pace — helping to naturally calm their nervous system.
Unlike traditional training, Freework is:
- Dog-led
- Pressure-free
- Focused on relaxation, not obedience
It’s suitable for:
- Over-excited puppies
- Anxious or reactive dogs
- Adolescent dogs
- Adult dogs
- Senior dogs with reduced mobility
Your role as a guardian is simply to observe, support quietly, and learn more about your dog.
Why does freework help dogs feel calmer?
Freework taps into your dog’s natural instincts.
Foraging, licking and chewing:
- Release dopamine (the “feel good” chemical)
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Promote calm behaviour
- Encourage focus and emotional regulation
But the benefits go deeper…
By observing your dog during Freework, we can also:
- Identify signs of discomfort or pain
- Understand movement patterns
- Spot early indicators of physical issues
This is powerful — especially as many behaviour challenges are linked to underlying discomfort.
How does a Freework session work?
Each session is carefully set up for your individual dog.
We create a series of “stations” using:
- Snuffle mats
- Lick mats
- Towels, fabrics or everyday items
- Natural treats and food
Your dog is then invited to explore freely.
There are:
- No commands
- No pressure
- No right or wrong way
Most dogs naturally settle into a calm, focused state within minutes.
Your dog will typically spend 15-20 minutes engaging in each Freework session and will decide when they have finished.
Is Freework right for your dog?
Freework is perfect if you want to better understand your dog, support their emotional well-being and provide enrichment without overstimulation.
Freework is ideal if your dog:
- Gets over-excited or struggles to settle
- Is anxious or easily overwhelmed
- Reacts to dogs, people or environments
- Is going through adolescence
- Is recovering from injury or has reduced mobility
- Is sensitive to noise
- Needs confidence building
- Finds walks overstimulating
What happens during a Freework session in Hitchin?
Each session is tailored to your dog.
We begin with a short chat to understand your dog’s needs.
Then:
- A personalised Freework setup is created
- Your dog explores while we observe (and record video)
- We review movement, behaviour and preferences
- You learn how to recreate this at home
Depending on your dog, we may run a second session to refine the setup.
You’ll leave with:
- Practical guidance
- A deeper understanding of your dog
- A simple way to continue Freework at home
FAQs
Your Questions Answered
Do I need a trainer for Freework?
Not long-term — but working with a professional initially ensures your setup is safe, effective and tailored to your dog.
What if my dog isn’t food motivated?
We can adapt Freework using toys, scents or other motivators your dog enjoys.
My dog gets over-excited around food — will this work?
Yes. Some dogs start off fast and frantic, but naturally slow down as their nervous system settles over time.
I’m struggling with my dog’s weight, should I avoid Freework?
No. You can either use part of your dog’s daily food intake, if they are on a kibble based diet; or for dogs on a moist food diet, then you can use some of this on lick mats and dry treats, but reduce their daily allowance of moist food to compensate.
Is Freework suitable for puppies?
Absolutely. It’s a great way to build confidence and introduce new textures and experiences safely.
Can senior dogs do Freework?
Yes — it’s especially beneficial for older dogs as it encourages gentle movement and enrichment without strain.
Will this replace training?
No — Freework isn’t training. It complements training by helping your dog feel calmer and more regulated.
My dog has restricted mobility, will Freework be beneficial?
Most likely. But it depends on the reason for your dog’s restricted mobility. If it’s post-surgery, please check with your veterinarian first. If your dog is older and struggling with mobility through age-related conditions, Freework is a great way to offer enrichment and gentle movement, but the set up needs to be appropriate for your dog.
Freework for dogs in Hitchin, Hertfordshire
If you’re looking for a calm, supportive approach to your dog’s wellbeing — Freework offers something truly different. Sessions are available in Hitchin and the surrounding areas in Hertfordshire.
About your Hitchin Freework Trainer
“I began using Freework with the dogs in my care, and their owners started noticing the difference too—calmer behaviour, better relaxation, and dogs that seemed more content overall.”
Running a successful home boarding and daycare business since 2015 has given me years of hands-on experience with dogs of all temperaments.
Alongside this, I’ve completed a Level 6 qualification in Canine Behaviour and Management—giving me a deeper understanding of how dogs experience and respond to the world around them.
Some dogs adapt easily to our busy lives. Others find it overwhelming. If your dog struggles to relax, reacts to their environment, or always seems “on edge,” you’re not alone. Nor are you doing anything wrong.
Like many owners, I’ve experienced this myself. We adopted our latest rescue dog in 2023. She’s loving, intelligent, and eager—but her early life left her feeling easily overwhelmed. While she responds well to training, I found that something was missing.
When I discovered Freework, I was curious—but also realistic. It didn’t magically transform her behaviour overnight. But what it did do was just as important.
After a busy or stressful day, Freework gives her the chance to slow down, process her environment, and truly relax.
The change is subtle—but powerful.
She settles more deeply. Sleeps more peacefully. And feels more at ease.
I began using Freework with the dogs in my care, and their owners started noticing the difference too—calmer behaviour, better relaxation, and dogs that seemed more content overall.
That’s why I now offer Freework sessions in Hitchin and surrounding areas. Not to “fix” dogs—but to help them feel calmer, safer, and more able to cope with the world around them.
I am enhancing my knowledge of Freework by studying to become a Certified ACE Trainer.
Happy Freeworkers
Carol introduced myself and Goose to the world of free work and I am very grateful that she did. Goose is half cocker spaniel, half Labrador so nothing makes him happier than using his nose. I haven’t spent loads on work stations, just a snuffle mat and ball, a lick pad and a home made rummage box. I tend to let Goose enjoy some free work of an evening and after his dinner and it definitely sets him up for a relaxing and peaceful evening releasing any built up excitement of me coming home. Thanks Carol.
We’ve had a great experience with Wagalot! Our dog absolutely loves going, she recognizes the sound of the car and waits by the door, ready to leave, which says a lot. Carol does a great job creating a positive, structured environment, and we’ve noticed a real improvement in her recall since she started attending. She comes home happy and well-exercised, and I always feel confident knowing she’s being well cared for. I’d definitely recommend Wagalot to anyone looking for a reliable and engaging doggy day care.
Carol has been doing Free Work in Hitchin with our dog, Maple, and even in a few sessions she comes home calmer and more relaxed. Maple is a very noise sensitive and anxious dog so we are looking forward to working more with Carol to help Maple cope better and give her the tools to be a happier and healthier dog.
