Before changing or modifying any canine behavior with my clients or own dog, itâs important to ask âwhyâ this behavior is occurring in the first place and decide if modification is necessary.
Many of the behaviors we find frustrating or annoying are in fact behaviors that are really ânot so weirdâ when we reflect on what the dog was artificially selected to do. For instance, my working breed was selected to protect livestock and spend its days working on a farm.
I would be lying if I said my dogâs guarding behaviors didnât frustrate me. Iâm human! On those days, I take a step back and remind myself what my dog was bred to do in the first place. I remember that my dog may be getting a release of dopamine or finding fulfillment in barking at the Fedex or Amazon driver or the morning jogger because guarding was what she and her ancestors were bred to do.
â¨So this brings the important question of when SHOULD we change our dogâs behavior?
đŠ When the behavior becomes an obsession and is interfering with our dogâs day-to-day; causing concerns for fear, stress, or welfare issues.
This week reflect on your dogâs behaviors (the ones you like and donât). Ask yourself if the ones you do not like much really do need fixing before any training begins.
As cute as the ghost trend looks on your feed, this âoutiftâ unfortunately prevents movement and blocks our dogâs vision. Letâs go ahead and skip the ghost trend this year and keep our dogs comfortable and confident this Halloween. If your dog is anxious in costume, opt for a Halloween-themed collar or bandana instead. Also, letâs go ahead and keep the photoshoot sessions short. These pics may be cute, but remember most dogs would rather just be dogs than influencers. #forcefreetraining #positivereinforcementtraining #postivereinforcementdogtraining #dogtraining #dogtrainingtips #dogtraining101 #advoateforyourdog #forcefreedogtraining #517living #517community #lovelansing #ghosttrend #halloween #doghalloween #fearfreehalloween #fearfreehalloweencostume #fearfree #fearfreepets
Fall Enrichment Tip: âPlay Findâ It In A Pile Of Leaves
đDid you know that dogs have up to 300 million scent receptors compared to just 5 million in humans? Their sense of smell is 10,000 to 100,000 times more sensitive than ours, making sniffing not just enjoyable, but crucial for their well-being.
Allowing your dog to use their nose reduces stress and encourages relaxation. Sniffing is a powerful mental workout, activating the brain in ways that help them process their environment and gain a sense of accomplishment. For dogs, sniffing is how they truly âseeâ the world, so giving them the time to explore through scent is cruical for their mental health.
For my big feelings girl, I use the âfind itâ game to help manage her triggers. This game redirects her attention from stressors to a rewarding task that naturally can bring her back into a calm state.
đWant a fun fall enrichment idea? Try playing âfind itâ in a pile of leaves! Toss a treat, give the cue, and let your dog dive into a scent-filled adventure. đâ¨
#enrichmentfordogs #enrichment #letthemsniff #LetDogsSniff #DogEnrichment #ReactiveDogTips #Falldogs #patterngamesfordogs #sniffari #dogtrainingtips #dogtraining #reactivity #reactivitytraining
Fall Enrichment Ideas & Tricks Training
I get it, it can be tough when you have a reactive dog and donât get to attend the fall, dog-friendly events in your community. If you can relate to this my advice to you is to bring the fall fun into your backyard! Nothing is stopping you! đđ
Tricks training is a great way to build your dogâs confidence, get out their excess energy, and meet their needs with enrichment.
When we fill our dogâs cups we often see a reduction in the âundesirableâ or frustrating behaviors we find in our dogs, which is why I love tricks training! Also it is a great way to grow your bond with your dog.
đFor a fall enrichment idea with a tricks training twist, grab a pumpkin from your local pumpkin patch and have them place two paws on it.
Not only will this trick get you a super cute IG-worthy photo, it is a great way to teach your dog balance and build up their confidence. What tricks are you currently working on with your dog? Share with me in the comments! đ
đTwo Paws Up Tutorial:
Prepare: Gather treats, find a quiet space, and use a sturdy, low object like a stool.
Get Attention: Hold a treat to capture your dogâs focus.
Lure to Object: Guide your dogâs nose toward the object, encouraging them to place both front paws on it.
Add Cue: Once they reliably place paws, introduce the cue âTwo Paws Upâ and gradually reduce treat luring.
Practice: Build confidence by increasing time on the object and practicing in different environments.
#dogtraining #dogtraining101 #reactivedogtraining #tricksdog #trickstraining #dogenrichment #enrichment #enrichmentfordogs #dogtricks #domorewithyourdog #enrichmentideas #fall #fallenrichment #fall #falldog #dogsofmichigan #michigandogs #lansingdogs #lansingdogparents #517living #517community #lovelansing
I hate to break it to you, but there are no âquick fixesâ in dog training. If a trainer promises fast or guaranteed results, thatâs a red flag đŠ and youâll likely be disappointed when progress doesnât come as expected. đđŞŚ
Real change in your dogâs undesirable behaviors takes time, consistency, and patience.
When selecting a dog trainer, keep these AVSAB guidelines in mind:
â¨Evidence-Based Practices: They should rely on scientific methods and modern dog training methods.
â¨Uses Positive Reinforcement: Effective training focuses on rewarding good behavior. Steer clear of trainers who rely on aversive tools or methods, as these can negatively affect your dogâs psychological well-being and physical development and may cause future fear/aggression behaviors.
â¨Individualized Approach: Training should be tailored to your dogâs specific needs.
â¨Continual Education: They should stay updated with the latest training techniques.
â¨No Guarantees: Be wary of trainers who promise quick fixes or guaranteed results.
â¨Vaccination Requirements: Ensure they prioritize the health and safety of all dogs.
Choosing a dog trainer is one of the most important decisions youâll make for your dog, as it can significantly influence their future behaviors and wellbeing.
If youâre a #Lansing area dog parent seeking humane and effective training for your dog or puppy, comment âtrainingâ to get started on your journey towards lasting change!
#lansingmichigan #dogsoflansing #dogsofmichigan #michigandogs #dogtraining #dogtraining101 #positivereinforcementtraining #positivereinforcementdogtraining
How To Get Your Dog To Focus On You
My 3 Simple Training Tips To Gain Your Dogâs Focus đđ
1. Start in a distraction-free and indoor environment when socializing a new cue; I recommend to clients to start in their living room!
2. Incorporate game-based training methods to keep your dog engaged in the training session. This video shows a game I like to call âAround-The-Clock Stay.âIt builds on your dogâs resilience and focus as you move around them (in a clock â° movement), where they learn focusing on you is the most exciting thing they can do (leads to rewards like treats!)
3. Teach your dog a âlook @ meâ cue so they can learn to keep focus and with practice youâll be able to build upon the cue in more distracting environments.
đ Are you in the #Lansing area and ready to find a focused and resilient companion?
â¨Comment âtrainingâ to learn more about our dog training services.
#517living #517community #dogtraining #puppytraining #dogsofmichigan #michigandogs #lansingdogs #lansingdogparents #dogsoflansing #dogparentsoflansing #lovelansing
Reactivity Training Tip: Wait The Cue Out
Why, during #reactivity training, do I wait it out before repeating a cue? đ¤
I want to give her the time to take in and process the environment, allowing her to decide not to engage with the triggers she finds scary or overwhelming. This approach helps her build resilience.
On a recent walk with Riese, she was first triggered by a bunny (just off to the left of the video, barely visible and what I was initially trying to capture on my phone), and then, within minutes, by another distractionâtwo dogs with their owners heading outside. We were at a far enough distance where she wasnât over her threshold and could choose to focus back on me. Every small victory, like the one shown here, is progress, so I choose to celebrate!
đŹ What little wins have you noticed in your dogâs training journey over the past week? Share them in the comments! đ
#ReactiveDogSupport #DogParentTips #lansing #lovelansing #lansingdogs #dogsoflansing #dogsofmichigan #michigandogs #reactivity #reactivitytraining #reactivedogawareness #advocateforyourdog #reactivedogs #517living #dogtraining #dogtraining101 #reactivityindogs #dogreactivity #leashreactivity #reactivitytips
Friday Gentle Reminder: Meet Your Dogâs Needs
As a dog trainer, I can easily shift into training mode and want to focus on improving Rieseâs leash reactivity. However, sometimes the best thing for both of us is to take a step back and enjoy a walk at her pace and her leading the way.
đWhy do I take sniffari walks and recommend it to my clients?
â¨Walking at your dogâs preferred pace and direction is mentally stimulating for them and it can help reduce frustration and reactivity. Simply put, sniffari walks cater to your dogâs natural instincts and needs, creating a more relaxed and positive walking experience for both ends of the leash
đHappy Labor Day and if youâre looking for something fun to do with your dog on your day off, try a sniffari!
Are you fed-up with walks filled with lunging and pulling? Here's the â¨Secret Sauce⨠for exercising your leash-reactive dog without having to take an actual walk. đ
Channel your dog's excess energy with enrichment! Let your dog sniff, explore, and try some playground Parkour. Itâs amazing how fulfilling your dogâs mental and physical needs leads to a calmer, more confident companion. Many unwanted behaviors like jumping, excessive barking, or counter-surfing can be managed with the right mental stimulation.
What unique enrichment activities do you use beyond a lickimat or stuffed Kong/Toppl? Share with me in the comments.
#DogEnrichment #CanineEnrichment #MentalStimulationForDogs #EnrichedDogsAreHappyDogs
#DogTrainingFun #EnrichmentForDogs #DogBrainGames #HappyEnrichedPups #EnrichmentMatters #Lansing #DogTraining101 #DogsofLansing #LansingDogs #LansingDogTrainer #517living #517community #lovelansing #dogparentsoflansing #lansingdogparents #lansingdogmom
â¨Your Friday Gentle Reminderâ¨
Just like every person, every dog is living its own unique experience. Their behaviors, choices, and personalities are shaped by their Learning, Environment, Genetics, and Selfâwhat is called the L.E.G.S.⢠approach in ethology.
Understanding a dog through the L.E.G.S.⢠framework allows us to see them as individuals with unique needs and behaviors. It emphasizes the importance of considering all aspects of a dog's life when addressing behavioral issues or training.
â¨Why Is It Important In Dog Training? â¨
L.E.G.S.⢠is important in dog training because it provides a holistic understanding of a dog's behavior, allowing trainers and owners to tailor their approach to each individual dog.
#dogsoflansing #dogsofgrandrapids #dogtraining #dogtrainingtips #dogtraining101 #reactivity #forcefreetraining #positivereinforcementtraining #positivereinforcementdogtraining #grandrapidsdogparents #lansingdogparents #lansingdogmom #lansing #517living #517community #dogtrainer #lovelansing #bodylanguage #dogbodylanguage #advocateforyourdog #legs #legsanimalethology #animalbehavior #caninebodylanguage #lansing #animalethology #ethology #experienceGR #grandrapids #thepackindoordogpark
We donât expect humans to be perfect, so why would we expect otherwise from our dogs? Sometimes we unintentionally place our dogs on an unattainable pedestal of perfection, dictating how they âshouldâ act. We end up feeling frustrated with behaviors that donât align with societyâs expectations of what our dogs should be. But guess what? Dogs are living their own individual experience just like us, with their own set of needs that need to be met in order to thrive.
Through the lens of LEGSâLearning, Environment, Genetics, and Selfâwe can truly understand and embrace their individuality. By meeting them with empathy and compassion, we can create a bond that celebrates every facet of who they are and find understanding in why they do certain behaviorsâeven the very ones we may not always like (doesnât this sound familiar with family members, partners, spouses, co-workers, or even your own children?).
â¨Imagine a relationship where imperfections are welcomed and celebrated, and where living a life together means both of each otherâs needs are met with compassion and understanding.
If youâre a #Lansing dog owner ready to forge a deep connection with your dog, letâs work together. All I ask is that you and your dog come exactly as you are!
#dogsoflansing #dogtraining #dogtrainingtips #dogtraining101 #reactivity #forcefreetraining #positivereinforcementtraining #positivereinforcementdogtraining #lansingdogparents #lansingdogmom #lansing #517living #517community #dogtrainer #lovelansing #bodylanguage #dogbodylanguage #advocateforyourdog #legs #legsanimalethology #animalbehavior #reactivity #itsokaytohavebigfeelings #bigfeelingsdogs #dogswithbigfeelings #lansing #animalethology #ethology #canineanxiety
Certified Rewards-Based Dog Training & Tricks | Serving Lansing Area
