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      Relax and Process

      Does your dog seem constantly on edge, barking at every sound, or struggling to settle down? The ability to relax and process information is a valuable life skill for all dogs. This article will guide you through techniques to help your furry friend unwind, improve focus, and cope better with their environment.

      Common Misconceptions

      • Myth: My dog just has a lot of energy, they can't relax.
      • Reality: Even energetic dogs need downtime. Relaxation training helps them learn to self-regulate.
      • Myth: Relaxation training is punishment.
      • Reality: Positive reinforcement techniques make learning to relax enjoyable and rewarding.
      • Myth: Only high-strung dogs need relaxation training.
      • Reality: All dogs benefit from learning to manage their emotions and settle down.

      Steps to Address

      Teaching Phase

      1. Create a Calm Zone: Designate a quiet, comfy space for your dog to relax, like a crate, bed, or mat.
      2. Capture Calm Behavior: Reward your dog for naturally calm moments. When they're lying down or resting quietly, calmly say "relax" or "settle" and offer a treat or praise.

      Reinforcing Phase

      1. Introduce Relaxation Cues: Pair relaxation with a specific cue, like placing a mat on the floor and saying "relax" as your dog lies down. Reward them for staying there quietly.
      2. Practice Relaxation with Short Sessions: Begin with short training sessions (a few minutes) and gradually increase the duration as your dog progresses.

      Proofing Phase

      1. Generalize the Behavior: Practice relaxation in different locations and with mild distractions. Reward calmness consistently.

      Maintenance Phase

      1. Continue practicing relaxation exercises periodically throughout your dog's life.
      2. Use relaxation cues in situations where your dog might get stressed, like before vet visits or during thunderstorms.

      Pet Parent Coaching Tips

      • Be Patient and Consistent: Learning to relax takes time. Be consistent with your cues and rewards.
      • Manage Excitement Levels: Avoid overstimulating your dog before relaxation training. Calm play and exercise beforehand can help.
      • Set Up for Success: Choose quiet training times and avoid distractions like loud noises or new people.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • My dog gets restless during relaxation training! 
        • Start with very short sessions and gradually increase duration. If your dog struggles, shorten the session or re-enter a calmer environment.
      • What if my dog whines when I ask them to relax? 
        • Ignore whining unless it escalates to barking. Reward only calm behavior, not attempts to get your attention.
      • How long will it take for my dog to learn to relax? 
        • Every dog learns at their own pace. Be patient and consistent, and you will see improvements in their ability to settle.