profile

Positive Dog

Reactivity, Recall, and Settling at a Cafe...

Published 3 months ago • 1 min read

Recall, reactivity, and calm behaviours all draw from the same foundations: self-control and arousal management. On the surface, they don't seem the same - recall is fast and high-energy, reactivity is emotionally charged, and settling at a cafe is low-energy and chill.

These behaviours all depend on the dog’s ability to regulate their internal state and make choices under stimulation.

​

Different goals, same skillset

When you call your dog, they must disengage from distractions and focus on you.

When faced with a trigger (dog, skateboard, squirrel), they must inhibit their initial reaction and choose a calmer response.

When sitting quietly at a café, they must regulate excitement and frustration, even when the server comes by or a person at a neighbouring table looks like they want to share their muffin.

All of those are examples of self-regulation — the dog managing internal impulses in the face of external stimulation.

Most people treat these skills as separate issues.

“My dog doesn't come when called.” “My dog is reactive.” “My dog can’t settle.”

But they’re not three different problems — they’re three symptoms of the same missing foundations. If your dog struggles with arousal management, everything else becomes harder.

Stay tuned for info on an upcoming class! I'm just formulating the details and I'm really excited to share it with you ❤️

Happy training,

Christina

​

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

Christina Young, BSc, CDBC, PCBC-A

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

This sweet little face belongs to Abbey. Abbey has been gone for a few years now, lost to one of those diseases that eventually claims the lives of old dogs. Abbey had a great family - two humans who loved her dearly and who gave her an amazing life. One of those humans became a trusted and treasured friend. Back when I was one of Abbey's trainers, I didn't know a lot about dogs like her - those who would bite to protect themselves when they felt threatened. Back then, it was the Cesar Milan...

about 3 hours ago • 1 min read

I LOVE working with multiple dogs in a home - there are so many training opportunities for teaching self control, patience, and emotional regulation, right in your own home! I just met Gracie and Rory and we put a plan in place to build Rory’s self-control—so there’s more peace in the home and Gracie gets her own space, toys, chews, and one-on-one time with her people without needing to put the puppy away. My home is so quiet... For the first time in 20 years, I only have 2 dogs. I am used to...

about 15 hours ago • 1 min read

I was so excited to reconnect with Gillian and Tucker, students from 5 years back, to see where they are now. We had just two sessions 5 years ago and Tucker is not only still with them, but out there living his best life! 😍 🎧 Listen to Tucker's Story Did you miss the webinar? Want to watch again? The main presentation is first with all of the Q&As at the end! There were some great questions! YouTube Link (Video Replay) Would you rather listen while you walk your dog? I uploaded the audio...

1 day ago • 1 min read