Canine Ethical Associates

15/06/2024

How Long Will It Take?

It’s natural to desire swift resolutions to our dogs’ behavioural issues. After all, seeing them content and stress-free not only benefits their wellbeing but ours too. However, just as personal therapy doesn’t follow a fixed timeline, neither does the behavioural adjustment in our dogs. The complexity of behavioural issues means that each dog heals and adapts at their own pace, influenced by their unique experiences and mental state. Some may show rapid progress, while for others, change may be slow, and for some, there may never be a complete resolution, particularly if trauma has played a part.

In understanding human psychological processes, we appreciate that therapy takes time—our dogs deserve the same patience and understanding. Rather than attempting to ‘fix’ them within a set period, we should focus on understanding, supporting, and making continuous adjustments to their environment to better meet their needs.

Instead of asking, “How long will it take?” perhaps the more fitting question is, “How can I improve their quality of life today?” This shifts our focus from a fixed endpoint to an ongoing journey of care and adjustment, where every small step contributes to their greater happiness and well-being.

Let’s measure progress not by the speed with which problems are resolved but by the quality of the days we create for them. ❤️

27/05/2024

🎉 Bank Holiday Special on our Redefining Reactivity Course! 🐾

As a special treat this Bank Holiday, I’m thrilled to offer a 25% off discount on the Redefining Reactivity course, perfect if you are looking to deepen your understanding and enhance your approach to handling reactiviy with your dog! Use the code: reactive25—valid until 1st June!

This comprehensive course is packed with valuable resources:

• Extensive Video Tutorials: Hours of video tutorials and videos demonstrating the CDD method in real-life scenarios.

• Detailed Guides and Step-by-Steps: Everything you need to apply these methods effectively.

• Exclusive Student Group Access: Join our vibrant community to ask personalised questions, submit videos for analysis, and participate in Facebook live sessions for real-time guidance.

• Rich Content Library: From life skills training to handling specific reactivity challenges, it’s all covered here.

Discover how this course can transform your approach to reactivity, making walks and interactions more enjoyable and stress-free. Dive into detailed modules that break down not just the ‘how’ but the ‘why’ behind each technique, fostering a deeper bond between you and your dog.

👀 Curious about what’s inside? Check out this sneak peek of the course contents in our video below!

Ready to join? Enrol here https://canineethicalassociates.thinkific.com/courses/redefining-reactivity-with-cdd

Don’t miss this chance to gain expert insights at a great price. Transform your reactivity challenges into opportunities for growth and bonding with your dog! 🐕❤️

15/05/2024

💪👏Empowering Your Dog Through Freedom of Choice

Have you ever wondered what goes through your dog's mind when they pause at the crossroads of a trail, or hesitate at the edge of a busy park? Often, we're tempted to make these decisions for them, but what if we offered them the freedom to choose instead?

🐾 Why Choices Matter: Allowing your dog to make decisions is more than just a practice in patience; it's a profound way to boost their confidence and reduce anxiety. When dogs feel in control of their actions, especially in uncertain environments, they develop a sense of security that's essential for their mental health.

🐾 How to Start: Next time you’re out with your dog, try letting them decide which path to take on your walk or when they’re ready to leave the park. Watch their body language closely—this isn't about letting them run wild, but about understanding their preferences and comfort levels.

🐾 The Impact: You might find that giving your dog this kind of autonomy can lead to a deeper, more communicative relationship between you both. Dogs who are allowed to express their preferences often exhibit fewer signs of stress and reactivity.

This approach isn't just about walking paths; it's about reshaping the way we interact with our dogs. It’s about treating them with the respect and understanding they deserve, which in turn, enriches our shared lives immensely.

🌿 For those intrigued by nurturing a bond that respects a dog's individuality and encourages their autonomy, the transformation can be remarkable. Your walks might just become the highlight of your day, filled with mutual understanding and discovery.

Let's give our dogs the respect of choice. It's a small change from us, but a significant step for them.

Feel free to follow and learn more as we explore the fascinating journey of truly understanding and connecting with our dogs, enhancing both their lives and ours. 🐕❤️

13/05/2024

Imagine a child, who is completely dependent on their parents to care for them and keep them safe. Like all children, they rely on adults to protect, teach, and guide them.

Imagine that this child is scared of other children, or something else. Perhaps the child has been bullied before, or had an experience that led to this fear. Or maybe they have something else going on, and this is heightening their fear of other things.

Imagine that another child approaches this frightened child, and the scared child shouts, "Please leave me alone," but the approaching child doesn't understand and comes closer. Or perhaps the parent of the scared child takes their hand and encourages them to get closer. The scared child becomes hysterical, their behaviour now driven by fear and heightened emotions. The child begins to shout and lash out, and has gone completely out of control.

Imagine the adult of this scared child getting angry with that child, telling them off, shouting at them, and eventually punishing them physically. Thankfully, the consequences of this action would be dealt with very carefully by child protection services in most situations. The child's welfare is a priority.

Now, I want you to imagine the same thing happening to a scared dog. Accept, in this scenario, no protection services come, no help arrives, and those who do want to step in to prevent this event from repeating are not allowed to do anything about it. The dog's welfare is not a priority in the eyes of the law. In some countries, this may not be the case, and the priority of animals is high. But sadly, in the UK and other countries alike, that is not the case.

Imagine now, instead of that scenario, the scared child or scared dog, they are listened to the first time. When they say, "I'm scared, go away," we hear them, we listen to them, and we validate them. We take action that advocates for their current needs, we reassure them that it's okay, that they don't have to feel scared, they don't have to get closer if they are not ready. Then we go through a process with them, where we take the time to learn about their feelings, that we teach them how to express themselves healthily. We help them build their confidence at their pace, in a way that helps them in the long term.

Imagine how we would feel in all these scenarios if we were the scared dog, the scared child. Step into their perspective. Understand them truly.

In 2024, I believe we do have the capacity to change if we can just learn how. We cannot expect our dogs to change their behaviour if we cannot change our own in order to aid their ability to change their feelings.

Let us always be the guardians that our dogs trust us to be.

11/05/2024

Even our customer's dogs want to have a read! (Or a munch?!) Get your copy here https://bookgoodies.com/a/B0D39DCPBN

11/05/2024

In wooded walks and crowded parks,
Where barks may chase the light of day,
A nervous glance, a sudden start,
The world's a stage where triggers play.

Yet here we stand, not just to train,
But develop trust without the pain,
With gentle hands, no collars tight,
In whispers soft, as not to fright.

No harsh command or tightened grip,
But choices wide and partnership,
A dance of dialogue, no force applied,
To soothe the mind and heal inside.

We tread with care on paths unknown,
With every step, their confidence grown,
From shadowed fears to morning's grace,
Each dog may find their peaceful place.

For every growl a silent plea,
From every fear, may they be free,
In trust we build a bridge anew,
With hearts aligned, we see this through.

So let them speak in barks and wags,
Find calm in hills or forest drags,
In our journey, let there be,
A bond unchained, a spirit free.

Bethany Bell.

Feel free to share :)

09/05/2024

What is your dog's favourite food?

09/05/2024

In the diverse world of canine education, we encounter many methods—conventional training, holistic approaches, structured teaching, and more. Each has its merits, but it's vital to underscore one crucial principle: none of these methods should ever involve causing pain, discomfort, or using physical and psychological force. True force is never necessary to guide or teach our dogs.

The term 'force' can be interpreted in many ways. For instance, helping your dog into the car or keeping them safely on a lead during walks is sometimes necessary for their safety and does not equate to negative force. However, there is a clear distinction between these actions and the force that overrides a dog’s comfort and autonomy—such as dragging a dog into a scenario they find terrifying, luring them closer to something they fear, or physically manipulating them into a posture like sitting. These actions do not respect the dog’s emotional state or individual needs.

We must strive to understand and respect our dogs, offering guidance that nurtures and supports rather than intimidates or harms. There are abundant resources and methods available that allow us to teach and connect with our dogs without ever needing to compromise their well-being. Let’s choose methods that develop trust and respect, enhancing the profound relationship we share with our dogs. By embracing approaches that avoid negative force, we not only protect their physical and emotional health but also deepen our connection with these wonderfully sentient beings.

07/05/2024

I have some exciting news!

I've published my second book, "Redefining Reactivity". This book serves as a comprehensive guide to overcoming reactivity using the CDD method, complementing my first book or standing strong on its own. While my initial book delves into my personal journey and the philosophy behind the CDD method, holistic teaching, and natural learning, this latest work focuses specifically on practical applications for managing reactivity in dogs.

"Redefining Reactivity" includes the five stages of dialogue, guiding you through teaching dialogue and using word association. It offers insights on how to support dogs using holistic methods and addresses reactivity when conventional training methods have not worked. This book champions a force-free, ethical approach to dog training.

Here is the link https://bookgoodies.com/a/B0D39DCPBN - where you can purchase the book as an eBook or paperback. The hardcover version will be available soon. If the link does not work, you can search for the title on Amazon for your country region. As it has just been released, it may not yet appear in the search results.

A huge thank you to everyone who has supported me on this project and throughout my journey! I could not have done this without your encouragement.

If you haven't yet checked out my first book, it's titled "Barking Up a New Tree - Rethinking Dog Training", and my latest release is "Redefining Reactivity - Using the CDD Method."

06/05/2024

Embracing innovation and standing out from the crowd can be a daunting endeavor, particularly when it involves introducing ideas that challenge the status quo. Choosing to offer something different, perhaps even controversial, isn't just about breaking norms—it's about courage and conviction.

Walking the path less travelled requires bravery, especially in the face of potential criticism or rejection. The fear of being disliked, mocked, or dismissed is a significant hurdle. However, the pursuit of change is not about universal approval but about impact and authenticity. Being unique often means exposing yourself to vulnerability; it means you might become a target for criticism. Yet, it is in these moments of challenge that growth occurs and resilience is built.

The rewards of daring to be different are profound. For every detractor, there is an advocate, for every critic, a supporter. These supporters are the ones who recognise the value in new perspectives—they are the pioneers alongside you, embracing innovation and change. Their respect and encouragement are invaluable, reminding us that our efforts resonate with those who are ready to listen and evolve.

If you encounter something different yet ethical that makes you feel uncomfortable, rather than resorting to mockery, defensiveness, or insults, consider why it evokes such a reaction. Politely ask the person to explain their approach or perspective. Learn about it before passing judgment. This open-mindedness can develop a richer understanding and appreciation for diverse viewpoints.

Therefore, do not shy away from your unique path. The world thrives on diversity and innovation. It needs individuals who are prepared to push boundaries and propose alternative solutions. While the journey of introducing new ideas can be fraught with challenges, it is also rich with opportunities—to learn, to grow, and to potentially transform a field. So, step forward with your convictions, offer your unique contributions, and remember: the world needs a little more 'different.' Let your distinct voice be heard, and do it with the understanding that real change often begins with a single brave step.

02/05/2024

Guidance for our dogs, especially when managing reactivity, is not about controlling their every move or making them conform to rigid expectations. It’s about leading them through the complexities of their environment and emotions with empathy and understanding.

When we guide our dogs, we’re not pulling them along a predetermined path but helping them navigate their world. For a reactive dog, this means creating safe and comfortable experiences that allow them to explore and react to stimuli at their own pace. This approach requires patience and attentiveness, ensuring that each step we take together is built on trust and respect.

Guidance is about listening to our dogs, interpreting their signals, and responding to their needs without imposing undue stress. It involves teaching them how to cope in a human world without suppressing their natural instincts. When a dog understands that their guardian is a source of safety, not pressure, their confidence grows. This empowerment helps them make more informed choices about how to react to potential triggers. It takes the pressure off them; they don’t have to perform for us, behave in a specific way, or respond to specific cues. They can just be, and we will guide them through.

By guiding our dogs with kindness and consistency, we develop a relationship where learning and growth are not about following commands but about understanding and adapting to the world around them. This approach allows dogs to feel more secure in their environment, reducing the likelihood of reactive behaviours and enhancing their overall well-being.

25/04/2024

Just a few weeks ago, I started working with this beautiful girl. After suffering with previous neglect and trauma, she found the most perfect home with dog parents who have been truly devoted to her. We have been using the CDD method, and there is such a noticeable difference in today's session. She is less reactive, more confident, happier, and enjoying her walks so much more. A few weeks ago she hated going outside and would tremble as soon as she saw her triggers or even the environment where her triggers might be. Today she did not tremble, she had a spring in her step! She conquered her walk with confidence. She is still early into her journey and her new life, and we will have more sessions with her, but it is always a joy to see such a lovely difference ❤️

11/04/2024

🤩 Our dogs, much like us, are individuals, each with their own distinctive personalities. What works for one might not necessarily be the best for another, and that’s perfectly okay!

When it comes to training and everyday activities, it’s important to remember that not all dogs are cut from the same cloth. Some thrive on structured training and enjoy the challenges it brings, while others might prefer a more relaxed, go-with-the-flow type of interaction. Similarly, while some dogs love the hustle and bustle of busy places, others might find quieter, calmer environments more to their liking.

Understanding and respecting these differences can make a world of difference. Tailoring our approach to fit our dog’s unique personality doesn’t just make day-to-day life smoother; it can significantly reduce behavioural stress and deepen the bond you share. After all, acknowledging who they are and adapting our methods accordingly shows our dogs how much we love and value them.

So next time you’re planning activities or training sessions, take a moment to consider what really makes your dog tick. It’s all about making their tails wag in the happiest way possible! 💖

28/03/2024

Synthetic aromas are largely made up of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which float through the air, are inhaled, and then enter the bloodstream. These highly popular aromatic liquids are actually chemicals, including lactones, benzene and aldehydes, all of which have been linked to birth defects, central nervous system disorders, neurological disorders, and/or allergic reactions, including eye, skin and respiratory symptoms.

🐾 Our animals often spend their days stuck inside our homes, unable to get away from these airborne pollutants; if your goal is to remove damaging chemicals from your family’s living environment, the first place to start is by unplugging plug-ins.

You can find our pet-safe home freshener and odor deodorizer recipes🍋🐾 to download in the The Forever Dog LIFE Learning Lab!

28/03/2024

🌍 A New Horizon in Dog Training: The Enlightening Journey of the CDD Method

Why not do something extra special with your dog?

🌿 I’ve got something really exciting to share with you all – it’s about a journey that’s not just any journey, but one that transforms the way we connect with our dogs. It’s about understanding them on a whole new level, making every moment count. That’s what the CDD method is all about – teaching and learning with our dogs in the most natural, holistic way possible.

Why We’re All Loving the CDD Method:

• It’s for Every Dog: Whether you’ve got a bouncy puppy, a tempestuous teen, or an adult dog who’s set in their ways, there’s something here for everyone.
• Transforms Reactivity: It’s been amazing seeing dogs who used to react with fear or aggression start to relax and trust more. It’s like they’re seeing the world in a whole new light.
• Keeps Those Brains Buzzing: It’s not just about tricks and commands; it’s about really keeping our dogs’ minds active and engaged, no matter their age.
• So Much Fun: We’ve been having a blast with activities that challenge both our dogs and us, in the best way possible.

Here’s What’s In Store:

I’ve put together courses that are super close to my heart, tailored for every stage of your dog’s life:

• Reactivity Course: For our dogs who find the world a bit too much sometimes, this is a game-changer.

• Puppy Course: Start your pup’s journey on the right paw with trust and understanding from day one.

• Adolescent Course: Those tricky teen years? We’ve got you covered, helping you navigate them with ease and positivity.

• Adult Dog Course: For our mature fur-friends, we keep the learning going, keeping them sharp and entertained.

Each course is like a little community in itself, where we share, learn, and grow together. It’s about fitting into your life seamlessly, making every moment with your dog an opportunity to bond and learn.

🌟 Join Our CDD Adventure 🌟

I’m so excited to share this with you all. Whether you’re looking to ease reactivity, set your puppy up for success, guide your adolescent dog, or just keep your adult dog engaged, we’ve got something special for you.

Let’s embark on this journey together and see just how deep the bond with our dogs can go, creating a lifetime of memories and understanding beyond what we ever thought possible.

💫 Ready to see the change? Check out our courses and let’s start this beautiful journey together. https://canine-dialogue-dynamics.com/index.php/courses/

27/03/2024

🌟 New! Adult Dog Course: Discover the Potential of Your Mature Companion 🌟For Ages over 2 years old.

Is your loyal companion stepping gracefully into their adult years? Our latest course is designed to awaken the full potential of your adult dog, offering a fresh perspective on learning that transcends traditional training methods. Whether you’re looking to enrich your current training routine or embark on a new journey of understanding and connection, this course has something unique to offer.

Why Choose Our Adult Dog Course?

Our course goes beyond the basics, diving deep into the realms of cognitive health and emotional intelligence. It’s perfect for those who:

• Appreciate the value of lifelong learning for dogs of all ages, understanding that mental stimulation is as crucial as physical exercise.

• Seek to deepen the bond with their adult dog through activities that engage the mind, promoting a more profound sense of companionship.

• Want to provide their dog with a rich, fulfilling life that nurtures their well-being at every stage.

Course Highlights:

• Holistic Approach: Discover a holistic pathway to your dog’s education that nurtures their mind and spirit, fostering a happier, healthier life.

• Cognitive Health: Learn how introducing new challenges and experiences can significantly enhance your dog’s cognitive functions, keeping their mind sharp and focused.

• Flexibility: Whether used alongside traditional training methods or as a stand-alone approach, our course offers the flexibility to suit your dog’s unique needs and preferences.

• Lifetime Benefits: Understand how continued learning can contribute to a more adaptable, emotionally resilient, and cognitively healthy dog, well into their senior years.

What’s Included?

• Access to comprehensive video tutorials and written materials that guide you through innovative techniques and exercises.

• Practical, enjoyable activities designed to fit into your daily routine, making learning accessible and stress-free.

• Membership in an exclusive community of dog lovers committed to providing the best for their adult companions, offering support, inspiration, and shared experiences.

Enrich Your Dog’s Golden Years

Embark on a journey that promises to enrich your adult dog’s golden years, providing them with the mental stimulation and emotional connection they deserve. It’s never too late to introduce new dimensions of learning that can profoundly impact their quality of life.

Enroll now and witness the transformation as your dog explores new horizons of learning and well-being. Together, let’s create a world where every adult dog enjoys a life filled with joy, learning, and unbreakable bonds.

🐾 Join us and unlock the untapped potential of your beloved companion today!

Discover our Canine Dialogue Dynamics course, crafted for those looking beyond conventional dog training. By focusing on verbal communication and empathy over rewards, we guide you in establishing a profound bond with your dog, fostering trust, confidence, and a solid base for lifelong companionship...

27/03/2024

What's one thing your dog does that you wish you could understand better? Let's explore the world of holistic learning together!

26/03/2024

🐾 New Course Alert: Canine Adolescence Applying the CDD Method! 🐾

Is your pup going through the challenging teenage phase? We’ve got you covered! Our brand new adolescence course is here to transform this tumultuous time into a period of growth and understanding. 🌟

📚 What’s on offer?

• Price: Just £35

• Format: Self-paced, allowing you and your dog to learn at your own rhythm.

• Support: Access to a dedicated Facebook group where your questions get answered, and you receive ongoing support.

• Holistic Approach: This isn’t just training; it’s an enriching journey that nurtures your dog’s health, well-being, and dietary needs.

Our course stands out because it’s built on the CDD method’s holistic principles. We focus on natural learning processes, going beyond traditional training to foster a deeper understanding and connection with your adolescent dog. Whether you’re looking to enhance your existing training regimen or seeking an alternative path, our approach is tailored to align with your dog’s innate instincts and needs, promoting a harmonious and balanced development.

🌱 Why choose this course? It’s designed not just to address the behavioural challenges of adolescence but to enrich your dog’s life through health, well-being, and natural diet insights. Perfect for those seeking a comprehensive and empathetic approach to this critical stage in your dog’s life.

Embark on this journey with us and unlock the full potential of your adolescent dog with the CDD method. Your adventure to a more connected and understanding relationship with your dog starts now!

🐾 Start your CDD journey today. Enrol here:

Discover our Canine Dialogue Dynamics course, crafted for those looking beyond conventional dog training. By focusing on verbal communication and empathy over rewards, we guide you in establishing a profound bond with your dog, fostering trust, confidence, and a solid base for lifelong companionship...

23/03/2024

And finally - Science is beginning to catch up on what we have already known for ages! This is why I use language instead of training cues and what inspired me to develop the CDD method!

Researchers at Eötvös Loránd University, Hungary, find a human N400-like semantic mismatch effect in dogs’ ERPs to objects primed with matching or mismatchin...

18/03/2024

Age yourself by commenting what the first concert was that you ever attended?

15/03/2024

Yesterday I went to visit the most wonderful dogs. One is a rescue dog who has only been with her new family for 6 weeks! She had been quite neglected and abused in her first 4 years of life but is incredibly resilient and now has the best parents to help her heal! 6 weeks ago she wouldn't come near anyone, and now she is already fully trusting her humans, and even came to say hello to me, had a nap next to me during my visit and played with a toy for the first time. I just love my job. This is what it is all about. Giving dogs the best life possible! ❤️🐾

I cover some areas in East Sussex and Kent for in person sessions.

15/03/2024

We are looking to share dog behavioural and lifestyle tips. What would you like insight on?

14/03/2024

How many is the perfect number of furry family members in your household?

26/07/2022

I have nearly 3 thousands likes and over 3 thousand followers! ❤️ I am not sure what the difference is but I want to thank you all for taking such an interest in what I do! I also really need some feedback, my posts are for you, I want to cater for my audience, so I need to know how I can help you all best. What subjects interest you? What would you like to read about? I've noticed my posts aren't reaching as many of you, facebooks algorithms do make it harder to gain as much visibility as I used to. If you wouldn't mind liking, commenting or sharing posts you like that would be a huge help to me. Please feel free to ask any questions and post any subjects you would like to hear more about ❤️

26/07/2022

'If only dogs could speak to us then we could know what they want or need' great news! They can speak, we just didn't know how to listen! They speak all the time, but we didn't know what they meant!

'If only my dog knew what I was saying, then they could understand me better" Even more great news! They can understand us, we just didn't know how to communicate properly! Dogs can understand more than basic singular commands and cues! They understand language!

So now we know dogs do speak to us and can understand us. What can we do with this? So much! This changes so many things we thought we knew about dogs! This means we can teach them in a completely different way! Free Will Teaching offers a natural and organic way to live with our dogs, in a way which strengthens our relationships with our dogs and expands our knowledge of our dog's capabilities.

We no longer need to wish they can understand or wish we could understand them. It is entirely possible!

25/07/2022

Puppy Sleep

Are you struggling to get your puppy to sleep the recommended 18-20 hours a day?

I am not surprised! But don't worry, there is nothing wrong with your puppy when they don't sleep this much. Simply put, this is a guideline that has no scientific backing to it. There is no evidence that puppies need this amount of sleep. Thinking about it, I am not sure I know of anyone who has a puppy that is only active and awake for around 4 hours over a 24-hour period.

Puppies are full of energy. They are learning, are full of curiosity, and want to play, explore, and discover. Don't get me wrong, sleep is important, and if a puppy doesn't get enough sleep this can affect their ability to think clearly. When they get overtired, they can become exasperated, start manically biting, go into a frenzy, become over aroused, be unable to calm down, focus, or listen, and be grumpy (we have all been there)!

It is important to bring the myth that puppies need to sleep 18-20 hours a day to light though, as owners may feel they need to impose sleep on their puppies when they are not asleep for this length of time. This is understandable, as people are told that if their puppy doesn't get this amount of sleep their health and welfare is compromised. Imposing sleep is also encouraged for lots of other activities and emotional states that are normal for puppies, such as over arousal, over excitement, whining, puppy biting, and anything else that could possibly be associated with tiredness. The problem here is that this overlooks the finding the actual reason for what the puppy is doing, as we think everything is to do with tiredness because we have been led to believe that they should be asleep most of the time.

Tiredness is sometimes the reason, but certainly not always. Could your puppy be bored? Experiencing growing pains? Having teething pains? Could they be hungry? Are they just wanting to play? Are they trying to communicate? Are they just excited? Do they need attention? Do they not know what to do with themselves? None of these reasons can be answered by imposing sleep, which will only create issues of misunderstanding and building frustration when you don't accurately interpret each other's needs. When we impose sleep, our puppy may eventually go to sleep, but that doesn't necessarily mean they were tired. They will sometimes give up and just go to sleep as there are no other options.

The small amount of research there is on canine sleep does show some insights. Kinsman et al. (2020) compared the sleep of 16-week-old puppies to 12-month-old dogs. They found that the average time spent asleep in a 24-hour period was 11.2 hours for the 16-week-old puppies, and 10.8 hours for 12-month-old dogs. The 16-week-old puppies spent more time asleep during the day, and 12-month-old dogs spent more time asleep during the night. They also found that of the puppies and dogs that had access to people during the night, 86.7% of the puppies and 86.8% of the dogs chose to stay around those people.

Another study (Bodizs et al. 2020) shows that the sleeping location along with pre sleep experiences made a material difference to the quality of the sleep. Active days with positive experiences and a safe sleeping location (indoors compared to outdoors) led to better sleep compared to negative experiences, and had a beneficial impact on memory, social skills, behaviour, and learning.

There is limited research on canine sleep, and so there is not enough data to provide any guidelines on how much sleep a puppy or an adult dog naturally needs. So, what is the solution? Get to know your puppy, their individual needs, what their body language means, what their verbal communication means, what they are trying to tell you. You will soon recognise when they are tired and need your help to settle when they are very young. When they are a little bit older, they need less guidance as they become able to regulate themselves easier and settle themselves to sleep when they need to. Each puppy is an individual and will require an individual amount of sleep depending on what they have been doing, their age, their brain development, their diet, their lifestyle and their breed. Try not to focus on the number of hours they do or don't sleep, instead focus on whether they are tired and need a rest, along with what they are telling you about how they feel.

Kinsman, R., Owczarczak-Garstecka, S., Casey, R., Knowles, T., Tasker, S., Woodward, J., Da Costa, R., Murray, J. (2020). Sleep Duration and Behaviours: A Descriptive Analysis of a Cohort of Dogs up to 12 Months of Age
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7401528/

Bódizs, R., Kis, A., Gácsi. M., Topál, J. (2020). Sleep in the dog: comparative, behavioral and translational relevance
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352154619301378