Games based training
The next zoom reactive dog class will be starting early next year.
Today I took mum to a specialist appt, and brought the dogs out for a drive. We played short training sessions in this new novel and very stimulating environment. Keeping the sessions short and fun, with the use of games.
Just some of the games are bounce back boundaries, paws up, hind end awareness, side, middle and switch, DMT, disengagement pattern and box feeding. We finished with some scent work and then back in to the ac in the car.
Good thing about rain days…. Puddles!!! Plus we accidentally met up with our friend (and best vet ever) and her pup and did some parellel walking without expectation of play.
Tonight the pups had zoom classes as demo dogs for Separation Struggles and Cooperative Care. To get them focused before hand we did a little training session.lol Linc is still the wild child but he tried his best.
Delivery driver
When I know I have a delivery, if possible I will set up the environment for a training session. If not possible, the dogs just don’t have access to the front door. This was Lucy (had hoped Brian would show up too - but he was too busy playing outside). I used a paws up object - it gives her a place to be and a job to do. I also did a practice run before talking to Mr Nobody etc as if it was real.
Teaching a hold
Before class this morning the pups did a few mins of training. Today’s plan to teach a hold. Brian’s first day, Poco and Lucy have it mastered and Linc never quite grasped it.
Who do you think the wild child will be….?
Happy Halloween…
Tomorrow is Halloween. Please keep yours pets safe and secure. If wanting them to wear costumes take the time to teach them how, and make sure they are confident and comfortable with them. Keep tasty treats out of reach. Don’t let your pups answer the door on Halloween either :)
My happy place. And yep the grass needs a mow.
Relaxation Protocol
A couple weeks ago I started the relaxation protocol with Brian (and whoever else turns up for a session).
The original protocol is from Karen Overall. It’s great but can be challenging to follow.
We are using Calmdog.App to make it easy to follow.
I’m not cuing a wait or stay etc.
Truth be told, my only criteria is he stays on his bed (but that’s his choice too). I’d prefer a down, but sit is fine too. And in an arthritic dog, whatever it finds comfortable. I reward each successful trial. And if he isn’t successful I’ll try again, and if not successful on that attempt break it down to make it easier (move slower, reduce time, stay closer).
Brian started step 4 this morning. We completed it, but will repeat tomorrow as he broke once for a dropped treat.
Why should you consider making the time to incorporate
below.
Increased Alpha Waves:
Alpha waves are associated with a state of relaxation and calmness.
When dogs are relaxed, there is an increase in alpha brain waves, which helps them feel more at ease
Enhanced Theta Waves:
Theta waves are linked to deep relaxation and sleep.
A relaxation protocol can help increase theta waves, promoting better rest and recovery for your dog
Reduced Stress:
Relaxation techniques can help reduce stress and anxiety in dogs.
Overall Well-being:
By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, a relaxation protocol can contribute to the overall health and happiness of dogs, enhancing their quality of life.
Incorporating these techniques into your dog's routine can make a big difference in their mental and physical health. 🐾
Tired pups
The pups had a dog walking class yesterday (lol they were the students of the students). Safe to say they were a little tuckered out…. Especially when you spot where Brian chose to sleep.
Contra freeloading
Did you know that many animals, including dogs, often prefer to work for their food rather than getting it for free? This fascinating behavior is known as contra-freeloading! 🐶✨
What is Contra-Freeloading?Contra-freeloading is when an animal chooses to perform a task to obtain food, even when identical food is freely available. This behavior has been observed in various species, including dogs, birds, and even fish! 🐕🐦🐟
Why Do Dogs Do This?
Mental Stimulation:
Working for food provides mental enrichment, keeping your dog's brain active and engaged.
Natural Instincts:
It taps into their natural foraging and hunting instincts, making mealtime more satisfying.
Learning and Training:
It can be a great way to reinforce training and desired behaviour.
How Can You Incorporate This at Home?
- Use puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys to make your dog work for their meals.
- Incorporate training sessions where your dog has to perform tasks or tricks to earn their treats.
- Hide small portions of food around the house or yard for your dog to find.
Remember, a mentally stimulated dog is a happy dog! 🐾❤️
Contra-freeloading: Something that every psychologist, neuroscientist .... https://lucklab.ucdavis.edu/blog/2019/2/9/contra-freeloading.
The Contrafreeloading Concept – What Does It Mean. https://zoosnippets.com/post/the-contrafreeloading-concept-what-does-it-mean. #allpets #allpetsed #contrafreeloading
