Training with the dog at the centre

Science has shown us that the emotional systems within the brain are remarkably similar across all mammals. Knowing this can help us empathise with our dogs.

Emotions drive behaviour to fulfil a function. If we can change the emotions, the function can be met with more appropriate behaviour – and the dog will feel safer and learn to trust you, building your relationship. For example, if a dog is pulling on their lead, they may be feeling afraid of or overwhelmed by, the environment and need some support. Or maybe they are over-excited and need help to calm down a bit. Or maybe they are stressed because they are in pain. Or maybe they just need clearer guidance to meet your expectations for lead walking. Knowing why they are behaving as they are, allows us to provide support, addressing the issue productively.

Viewing behaviour as information, without labels or judgments, allows us to observe it with curiosity rather than narrow expectations which often lead to frustration. We move away from a task-orientated focus to a relationship-orientated focus, identifying what is intrinsically valuable to the dog. It is an approach that recognises that much of the behaviour we don’t want is driven by emotions which are aversive for the dog so the decision to resolve them can be driven by a desire to show our canine companions compassion, rather than just improving our own experience. It is a mindset which incorporates empathy and this builds connection.

Compliance is not the only end goal.

This approach does, however, require us to slow things down, listen to the dog through careful observations and go at their pace providing them with choice and using techniques, games and activities which motivate and engage them, helping them to feel safe.

While many of the tools I use align with the positive reinforcement approach developed over the last couple of decades, the mindset underlying them is a little different as I believe it is right to start with the dog and their needs, rather than our agenda. By following this sequence, we promote the learning that we want while maintaining (or building) a secure attachment with our dogs.