the power of movement: teaching back and forth
When dogs encounter triggers, they often freeze and become rigid. This reaction not only makes it challenging to extricate both a guardian and dog from a potentially dangerous situation but it also increases the likelihood that the dog will become tense and react explosively. Teaching a dog to keep moving can help create distance between the dog and the trigger quickly, not only ensuring the dog’s safety but also providing the dog with an alternative activity in the presence of a trigger.
In this video, KPA faculty member Emma Parsons and her dog demonstrate the practice of moving back and forth. Emma marks the forward movement and delivers a treat in the opposite direction to encourage backward movement. By incorporating this exercise into their training routine, Emma teaches her dog to remain calm in the presence of a trigger and to learn that moving past it, either forward or backward, is a rewarding experience!
Learn the ground-breaking Click to Calm method, tools, and techniques that award-winning author and behavior specialist Emma Parsons has used to help hundreds of her clients and their dogs in Click to Calm for Instructors.
Happy (Puppy) Training!