Sit or Down within the Presence of Triggers – CattleDog Publishing

Q: My coach instructed me to place my canine in a sit or down when different canine cross by on walks. However she tries to climb behind me or run away after I do that. What ought to I do?

A: Placing your anxious canine in a sit or down close to their triggers is like ordering somebody afraid of spiders to take a seat close to one. Taking away your canine’s alternative and management to maneuver to security can worsen their inner battle. This can be a flooding technique and might intensify their concern and insecurity of these triggers.

Basis abilities reminiscent of voluntary eye contact and nostril focusing on can hold your canine engaged if these are recognized behaviors. Cueing different abilities your canine enjoys, reminiscent of spin, toes up, or weave, can be utilized both independently or as a part of a conduct chain, a sequence of recognized behaviors. Your canine’s favourite methods will help create a constructive, conditioned emotional response to approaching triggers.

If the triggers method too carefully, transfer your canine to a safer distance to maintain your canine from reacting if potential. Use high-value treats or favourite toys to distract, redirect, or transfer additional away. Sticky meals, reminiscent of canned cheese or pouches of peanut butter or child meals, encourage licking which can additionally assist hold your canine extra engaged and promote leisure within the second. Cue your canine once more for a enjoyable conduct when you’ve gotten moved away from the set off, and hold your tone jolly.

All the time reinforce fascinating behaviors and ask for alternate options to undesirable ones. Keep away from strolling your canine in conditions the place they’re uncomfortable till you might be each prepared. A brief, high-quality stroll is extra vital than a protracted, poor one. When you need assistance, contact an authorized coach and seek the advice of together with your veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary behaviorist.