🍪 Building Value!


What's With All The Cookies? 🍪

In training, whether we're teaching a brand-new behavior or working to change an old habit, the first step is always the same: build tons of value in the behavior we do want to see. That means... lots of cookies!

I just uploaded a fun throwback video featuring Riker learning how to stay calm instead of "fun policing" the other dogs when they start to run. In those early sessions, I kept the expectations low and the rewards high—that’s how you create a rock-solid foundation.

Once that foundation is in place, you can start raising the bar and easing off the cookies. And if things wobble? No worries—you’ve got that strong base to return to.

🎥 Watch Riker Learning the Relaxation Protocol


In this video, the other dogs are behind a gate so I can focus on Riker. Watch for the moments when I realize the task is a bit too tough—or when he nails it and I decide it’s time to level up. This was Riker’s first time in this setup, so I used a super high rate of reinforcement to set him up for success!


Ready to dig deeper and get real tools for managing leash reactivity?

Join the Leash Reactivity Deep Dive and start turning frustration into progress.


Other Free Resources

FB Reactivity Group

FB Puppy Group

Relaxation Protocol

Podcast

Podcast

Blog

2738 Holden Corso Rd, Nanaimo, BC v9x 1n5
Unsubscribe · Preferences

Positive Dog

Subscribe if you'd like to receive my somewhat regular emails including training tips and concepts as well as info about my upcoming freebies and programs!

Read more from Positive Dog

Let’s Make Walks Easier—for Both of You Do you ever watch people walking their dogs—coffee in hand, chatting away, looking like they don’t have a care in the world—and feel a little jealous? And then, when it’s time to walk your own dog… your body tenses. Your heart races. Maybe your hands grip the leash tight at your waist or chest. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. And here’s something really important: Your dog isn’t reactive because you’re anxious. Their reactivity is not your fault. But...

Rethinking Your Dog Training? You’re Not Alone. You’ve probably heard it before (maybe even from me!):“One-on-one training is the gold standard.” And sure—it makes sense. All eyes on you and your dog. More attention. More personalization. More results. But after running lots of programs, here’s what I’ve seen again and again:Small group training can actually be even more powerful. Every time I teach a Deep Dive, it proves itself. Let me show you why. Yes—individual support matters. And yes,...

Comparison-Itis: The Sneaky Challenge of Owning a Reactive Dog If you have a reactive dog, you’ve probably felt it—the heavy weight of comparison-itis. You scroll through social media or watch other dogs calmly strolling by, and suddenly you wonder, “Why can’t my dog be like that?” It’s totally normal to feel this way. But here’s the thing: every journey is unique. Reactivity isn’t a reflection of your skills as a pet guardian or trainer—it’s a sign that your dog is struggling with something...