🪟One of the quickest ways to stop window barking is to prevent the rehearsal by using curtains, window clings, or even closing doors to the rooms with the best big screens when you can't be present to work on training.
Management is often the first step in any training plan & can be the most impactful.
Save yourself & your dog the stress, close the curtains // add the privacy film.
You'll thank me later 🫶
Does your dog bark at windows?👀🪟
Living with a reactive dog doesn't mean you have to give up on all of your adventures, but it does mean you often need to plan ahead.
This weekend, I was going to an unfamiliar spot with Enzo for @frontnscenter 's Scentsational Scavenger Hunt, & since our schedule allowed it, I wanted to minimize both of our stress by going at a quieter time.
While every interaction is a learning experience for our dogs, we don't have to make every adventure a training session.
By planning ahead, we managed to enjoy our scent game & explore the park while keeping triggers at a comfortable distance. This meant not only did Enzo have fun, but I also got to enjoy our adventure without feeling like I had to be "on" the whole time.
Do you have any tricks for taking your sensitive dog places?
Trainers! Behaviour consultants! Vets!
How often have you heard "my dog's not food motivated"?
How often was that correct?
Reminder: Effective dog training looks boring
A follow-up from my stories this week.
Regardless of the issue you're working on with your dog, you're providing them with 24/7 support. Often, that means you end up drained.
Whether it's your trainer, your dog friend, your mom, or a licensed therapist, you need to ensure you have a support network to properly manage your own feelings & stresses.
Are you feeling stuck with your dog's training?
So is your dog!
Moresby kept jumping onto the bench when we were working on "paws up" because he has a similar gesture for "place".
Using a nose target while I sat on the bench reduced the target area and helped him pick it up quickly.
Allowing us to move this cue to different (very place-able) objects.
Adaptability is the secret sauce in your training plan!
**Sometimes, it's best to reach out to a professional to guide you on the most effective and efficient training plan to meet your goals.**
Here's hoping all August hikes are like this one ☀️
When are puzzle toys problematic? 🧩🐾
I've had several clients ask me about puzzle toys lately & whether their dogs are benefitting from them. Most, if not all, dogs will benefit from the mental workout & relaxing ritual of puzzle toys.
However, if your dog isn't given help learning the basics, these toys can be more frustrating than beneficial.
Signs of frustration to look out for:
-Digging
-Barking
-Rough handling of the toy
-Rapid movements & tense body (think staccato!)
-Biting/mouthing the toy
Ways to improve engagement:
-Give your dog a simpler rated toy
-Walk your dog through each of the basic steps needed to solve the puzzle
-Use aids like ropes added to handles to make the toy more accessible to your dog.
Each dog is unique & may excel in different areas. Set your dog up to succeed on a non-slip surface & have water handy. Remember to supervise your dog when they're puzzling to ensure they're engaging properly & staying safe.
