Freya V. Locke - Dog Behaviourist | Author | Blogger. Issue 37, 2024
Writing in my pyjamas and drinking my body weight in coffee.
Hi Gang
Welcome to another weekly Saturday newsletter!
I’m very sleepy today thanks to this little herbert:
Fun Not Fear® Journal
This week has seen me hanging around benches, car boots, and parks.
Places with plenty of space around you and your dog, while being able to relax, are extremely advantageous for both of you. Besides providing mental stimulation and fresh air for your dog, it also boosts confidence and strengthens your relationship.
Loitering like a wierdo People watching is an easy way of letting your dog relax, desensitise and see the world. Sit far enough back so they can see without panicking and try to relax. I suggest an enjoyable picnic for you both of your favourite things. Take a blanket sprayed with Pet Remedy* to sit on. If you are calm and triggers are far away but still viewable, it gives them the chance to make up their own minds that the world is not such a scary place.
And, if they are at the stage where they can take treats, follow a simple cue, and play easy little games, then they can begin mentally pairing triggers with good things.
Simple games and sniffari exercises, while loitering relaxing, can also help easily excited or highly aroused dogs practice calmness by managing their excitement levels to prevent frustration around triggers.
Just like socialising puppies, spending time with your adult dog in public spaces with triggers present, but in a manageable way, can be highly beneficial for addressing and preventing behavioural issues.
Where can you think of, to relax with your dog and watching the world go by?
Want to know more about helping your anxious dog the Fun Not Fear® way?
We have a book! Available in all formats from Amazon.
Grab your copy, and get helping the dog in your life to overcome their struggles.
Spotted and sharing.
Feed Your Dog’s Microbiome (Not Just Your Dog)
A good article on your dog’s gut microbiome. Very important stuff, when we look at our dog’s behaviour from a holistic point of view.
My other posts - because I write about other stuff too!
Handy links.
*affiliate link - I only ever recommend products I use or have used myself.
Hope you all have a wonderful week and I’ll see you all in this Saturday newsletter next weekend!
Warm’N’Fuzzies,
Freya xx