Dogs are experts at learning by forming associations. Is that good? Is that bad? Does it hurt? Was it scary? Etc.

We use this canine superpower to our advantage by helping our dogs create new associations to triggers which then changes how our dogs actually feel about those triggers!

Instead of relying on corrections to suppress the expression of behavior, we work on using food, play, and skills to change how our dogs actually feel about things that currently scare, frustrate, or upset them. Not only does this help our dogs feel better in their own bodies as they navigate the world, it also builds up their trust in you to help them work through those tough situations.

Here is an important example:

Say I am walking my dog and I don’t like the way he reacts to seeing another dog. Maybe he just barks in excitement, but I don’t like it. I shout, “No!” and jerk his leash. This happens every time we see a dog. Pretty soon, my dog’s reaction to other dogs is terrible—he barks and growls and lunges and snaps because I have built a negative association in him: Dogs equal pain. In other words, I have reinforced my dog’s feeling that there is a reason to fear or dislike other dogs.

Instead imagine that, as I am walking my dog I am able to use my understanding of canine body language to see that my dog is hyperaware or nervous about a dog approaching. Instead of leaving my dog to figure it out and make choices I don’t like, I step in and support them!  Together we can move further away from the dog and delightful yummy treats come out the entire time the dog is in our sight.  Now my dog is starting to feel that their human can help them out when they’re worried and that maybe seeing other dogs is kind of awesome!