how to create a safe place for your dog: Part 2
In Part 1 of How to Create a Safe Place for Your Dog, KPA faculty member Debbie Martin demonstrated how to establish a safe station for your dog when she is feeling anxious or fearful. Now, in Part 2, Debbie demonstrates how to desensitize a dog to sounds that cause anxiety and fear, and how to teach the dog to go to the safe place when she hears those sounds.
For this exercise, you will want to use the mat that was used to train relaxation in Part 1, high-value treats or food toys (Debbie is using a Kong and lick mat), and an audio recording of a sound that previously induced fear. Begin by playing the sound at a very low (barely audible) volume while the dog enjoys high-value treats on his mat. The volume of the sound should progress gradually (one level at a time) so that the dog remains relaxed at each increment. If the dog begins to show signs of fear, the volume has increased too quickly. Eventually, you will be able to play the sound at a high volume while the dog remains happy and relaxed on the mat. You are now ready to teach your dog that the sound is the cue to go to the mat!
For more tips on how to train better and have fun with your dog, check out KPA’s Dog Trainer Comprehensive course!
Happy Training!