Week 3

Lesson 1 - Building optimism + the “cone game”

Tips to increase optimism and confidence even once the critical socialisation window has closed.

The cone game is great for this with the added advantage you can start shaping a behaviour that helps with putting on a harness or even a cone post-surgery.

Lesson 2 - Scent

Nosework or Scentwork is one of the best activities you can do with your dog.

It’s a great way to burn both physical and mental energy, perfect for all breeds of dog. Giving dogs permission to enjoy the hunt, this activity builds confidence, reduces anxiety, and gives your dog something to feel really good about!

It really is one of the best forms of exercise!

Lesson 3 - Spin

A really simple but fun trick to teach your dog!

Lesson 4 - Play Dead

Another fun trick! The key with this is to look for the two body weight shifts - first the back hip roll into the relaxed drop position.

Then the front shoulder roll when your dog commits to that movement to lie down on his side. This one is the key, then food on the nose down to the floor for the final position.

It’s also such a useful position for grooming, as you’ll see in the video!

Lesson 5 - Catch!

Can your dog catch? It often surprises us when our dog doesn’t just catch food naturally.

Catch is the basis of one of our week 4 exercises, but also fun for your dog and an easy way to deliver medication (I get 3 Chunker type treats, toss the first 2 for my dog to catch, then the last one has the tablet squished inside, toss to your dog and it’s down the hatch quick smart!).

Remember, it can take a couple of months for some dogs to learn, so take it easy and have fun!