Beyond The label: Bull Breeds, Behaviour & Welfare - Interview With Jessica Hyams

Kicking off 2026 with an incredible episode

In this episode of We Love Dogs, I’m joined by Jessica Hyams, a Certified Canine Behaviourist and Trauma-Informed Professional, for an honest and compassionate conversation about bull-breed dogs.

Jessica shares her journey into behaviour work and her passion for supporting bull breeds, who are some of the most misunderstood dogs in the UK. Together, we explore why so many bull-type dogs are ending up in rescue, how pain and health issues can significantly influence behaviour, and the lasting effects of lockdown, social-media advice, and the use of aversive training tools.

We also discuss what makes bull breeds such incredible dogs, and why education, early support, and welfare-led approaches are so important — particularly in light of the XL Bully ban.

This episode goes beyond stereotypes and headlines, focusing instead on behaviour, welfare, and understanding the dog in front of us.

In this episode, Cheryl and Jessica discuss:

• Jessica’s journey into becoming a behaviourist
• Why she is so passionate about bull-breed dogs
• The over-representation of bull-type dogs in rescue
• How pain, and health issues, affect behaviour
• The impact of lockdown and social-media advice on dogs and owners
• The use and consequences of aversive training tools
• Understanding bull-breed traits and what these dogs need to thrive
• Common misconceptions about bull breeds
• Why bullies can be such amazing companions
• The importance of an early, supportive start
• The welfare implications of the XL Bully ban

Want to connect with Jessica? details below:

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For questions or to work with Cheryl, you can reach her via:
Website: Chel's Tails | Dog Walking and Training
Email: [e-mail]
Facebook: Chel's Tails Canine Coaching
Instagram: @chelstails
TikTok:@chelstails
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