
12/07/2025
For dogs with behavior challenges, learning how to calm themselves down is a critical skill. Long-term calming projects help them build this skill by creating regular opportunities to practice resting and regulating their emotions, especially during stressful moments.
These activities aren't about distraction or random enrichment activities. They're about creating a routine that supports your dog's nervous system and gives them a chance to feel safe, even when the environment is challenging.
For example, Consultant Ellen's dog, Griffey, used to completely panic every time the neighbor dogs barked. But after using calming projects regularly, Griffey started recovering more quickly. Eventually, he would still react, but the outburst was shorter, less intense, and he settled down faster. And that's real progress!
If you'd like to teach your dog to self-soothe, sign up for our upcoming Safe Spaces class where we'll give you the step-by-step plan to build calming projects into your routine and help your pet create a true safe space. Enrollment closes in a few days!
đ https://karenpryoracademy.com/live-classes/at-ease-safe-spaces-for-home-and-on-the-go-live-with-ellen-yoakum/