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Presented by
Tracy Buck, B.S.
Certified Professional Dog Trainer
KPA- Certified Training Partner
Puppy Mill
Rehabilitation
2Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Three Key Areas:
3
BEFORE & DURING INTAKE
REHABILITATION & FOSTER CARE
PLACEMENT IN ADOPTIVE
HOME
Shadow
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
4
1. Decision for Intake
2. Evaluation and Assessment of
Dogs for Intake
3. Minimizing Stress for Basic Care
BEFORE & DURING INTAKE
REHABILITATION & FOSTER CARE
PLACEMENT IN ADOPTIVE
HOME
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
5
1. Foster Care Requirements and
Educational Resources
2. Building a Rehabilitation Team
3. Relationship Building with the
Puppy Mill Survivor
4. Tools/Supplies for Rehabilitation
5. 5 Foundation Skills for Puppy Mill
Survivors
6. 4 Week Training Outline
7. Shy Dog Group Class Overview
8. Understanding Canine
Communication
BEFORE & DURING INTAKE
REHABILITATION & FOSTER CARE
PLACEMENT IN ADOPTIVE
HOME
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
6
1. Is dog ready for placement?
2. Screening adoption applicants
3. Ensuring success during first visit
4. Education of adoptive home
5. Transition to adoptive home
BEFORE & DURING INTAKE
REHABILITATION & FOSTER CARE
PLACEMENT IN ADOPTIVE
HOME
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
„Puppy Mill‟ Survivors
7
Originate from a variety of circumstances and
levels of care – each rescue is different…
Generally come from commercial breeders, but
hoarders and hobby breeders can also be a
source
CHEYENNEHW+, breeder release,was pet at one
time
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
„Puppy Mill‟ Survivors
8
Common Factors
Little to no socialization
Puppyhood - „sensitive‟ period is prior to 16-18 weeks
Adolescence – „sensitive‟ period at ~8 months
Adulthood – social maturity generally at 2 years of age
Deprived environment (cages, kennel runs, pen,
etc)
Inadequate exercise, enrichment and interaction
Generally no abuse, but often rough handling
Abused dogs have different needs
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Decision to RescueWhy Rescue at All?
9
1. Improved QUALITY of life for the dog
Quality of life is subjective
Humane euthanasia may be the kindest option
for some puppy mill dogs
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Decision to RescueWhy Rescue at All?
10
2. Support and Protect the Human/Animal Bond
Expectations of adopters for the breed
Expectations of adopters for the particular dog
– clear understanding and acceptance that the
dog is a „Special Needs‟ dog
Not about saving the life of every dog
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Decision to Rescue
11
Do we have the resources to help at this time?
1. Availability of funds
2. Availability of foster care
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Selection of DogsBefore Meeting the Dogs
14
1. Decide how many dogs your organization can
handle.
2. Obtain as much information as possible as to the
original housing and care situation
Speak directly to the owner if possible, or ask the
shelter to obtain the information for you
Speak directly to someone who participated in the
seizure/intake of the dogs into the shelter
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Selection of DogsBefore Meeting the Dogs
15
3. Evaluate each dog individually as the level of
socialization may be different per dog
Don‟t rule out the entire group based upon the behavior
of just one dog
Individual dogs may have been obtained from pet
homes
Some older dogs may have been „favorites‟ and treated
as pets
Individual dogs may have been socialized if children
were present (especially if coloration is different)
Some dogs may have been kept in large pens on dirt
with lots of enrichment (junk) in the penCopyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Selection of Dogs
Evaluation/Assessment
16
Age should be a consideration,
but not the deciding factor.
Younger isn‟t always better.
Personality
Observe the dog‟s behavior in a
group situation. If possible,
complete observation from a
hidden area.
Select dogs that appear to be
confident and slightly pushy with
the other dogs
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Selection of Dogs
Evaluation/Assessment
17
Social Affiliation
Observe the dog‟s behavior when you approach the
dog in confinement
Select dogs that approach the barrier, especially
ones that jump on the barrier and attempt to make
contact
Select dogs that seek eye contact
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Selection of Dogs
Evaluation/Assessment
18
Formal Behavior Assessments
SAFER test is a standard evaluation that most
shelters conduct.
Most puppy mill dogs will not pass this test.
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Selection of Dogs
Evaluation/Assessment
19
Informal Assessment
Observe dog‟s behavior while in a
kennel run and other person
approaches to leash the dog.
Carefully note the body language
to evaluate whether the dog is
considering a snap or bite
Observe the dog‟s behavior during
handling and average level of
restraint
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Selection of Dogs
Evaluation/Assessment
20
Four possible reactions during highly pressured,
fearful encounter:
1. FREEZE
2. FLIGHT
3. FIGHT
4. FOOL Around (rarely see in puppy mill dogs)
Decide prior to the assessment which behaviors
will be acceptable based upon the resources of
your rescue. (I personally would not accept dogs that
exhibited a FIGHT response due to our limited resources).
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Basic Care with Minimal Stress
21
Communicate to veterinarian and staff prior to rescue
Complete fecal / blood panel (dogs raised in group
confinement in breeding situations have increased risk
of health issues not usually found in pet dogs)
No leash walks for elimination; use kennel runs
Kennel compatible dogs together if possible
Initial bathing should take place at vet or shelter if
possible
Hold on these until the dog is under sedation for
neuter/dental:
Nail clipping, ear cleaning
Body clipping if the dog requires extensive grooming
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Basic Care with Minimal Stress
22
Communicate to veterinarian and staff prior to rescue
Most vets no longer use „Ace‟ for anxiety (provide vet
with current research findings if needed)
Recommend Dr. Sophia Yin‟s Low Stress Handling book
Is the clinic interested in behavior? If not, are they
willing to partner with other vets who have expertise in
this area?
If the vet diagnoses a generalized anxiety disorder, the
dog will most likely be placed on medication during the
rehabilitation period (canine equivalent of Zanax, Paxil,
Prozac, etc)
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Basic Care with Minimal Stress
23
Grooming
Delay grooming for the
first week in foster
care, if possible
If absolutely necessary,
someone other than
the foster home should
bathe/trim nails
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Foster Care Requirements
24
Household is calm
All human and canine
members are supportive
Availability to spend
minimum of 30 minutes per
day training the dog
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Foster Care Requirements
25
Foster care will last a
minimum of 3-6 months;
12-18 months until
placement isn‟t unusual
Availability and willingness
to take the dog on regular
field trips
Knowledge about canine
communication and
behavior
SHADOW: HW+, breeder release,
was pet at one time
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Educational Resources
26
Conferences:Clicker Expo
Association of Pet
Dog Trainers
Seminars/DVDs: Sue Sternberg
Patricia McConnell (Both Ends of the Leash, Other End of the Leash)
Nicole Wilde (Fearful Dog book & seminar)
L - Danny: mill release 4 months
R - Stoney: hoarder rescue 7-8 years
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Educational Resources www.DogWise.com www.ClickerTraining.com
27
Understanding Dogs
The Language of Dogs (Kalnajs)
On Talking Terms With Dogs: Calming Signals (Book
& DVD - Rugaas)
What is My Dog Saying? (DVD – Byrnes)
Canine Behavior: A Photo Illustrated Handbook (Handelman)
Animals Make Us Human (Grandin)
Animals in Translation (Grandin)
For the Love of a Dog (McConnell)
Inside of a Dog (Horowitz)
Penny & Candy – born in woods,
adopted as puppies from Sheltie Rescue Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Education Resources www.DogWise.com www.ClickerTraining.com
28
Dog Behavior and Training
How to Behave so Your Dog
Behaves (Yin)
Parenting Your Dog (King)
The Cautious Canine; <$10 booklet
(McConnell)
Reaching the Animal Mind; Chapter 7 on Fear (Pryor)
Getting Started: Clicker Training
for Dogs (Pryor)
Low Stress Handling, Restraint
and Behavior Modification of
Dogs & Cats; >$100 w/DVD (Yin)
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Support During the Rehabilitation Process
29
Not a training book; provides a realistic account of the „journey‟
Provides foster homes and adopters with key emotional support
Authored by Janice Mitchell, volunteer with St. Louis SCSR
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Lucy Blue (Janice Mitchell)
30
12/98
4 months later
Therapy Dog!
10/01 – 3 years later
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Support During the Rehabilitation Process
31
The Diary of Lucy Blue (Mitchell)
www.Sheltie4Me.com
Click on „Lucy Blue/Puppy Mill Survivor
Book‟ to get several other links
Brand New „Puppy Mill Survivor
Rehabilitation‟ Yahoo group
(sign up on feedback form)
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Rehabilitation: A Team Effort
Traditional Model
32
Foster Home
Veterinarian
(General)
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Rehabilitation: A Team Effort
Current Model
33
Behavior Specialist
Veterinarian
(General)
Foster Home
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Behavior Specialist
34
Behaviorist
• Dr. Dodman, DVM
• Dr. Lore Haug, DVM
• Dr. McConnell, Phd
• <48 in U.S.
Trainer
with Behavior Knowledge
and
Experience
• IAABC-certified
• KPA-CTP
• >3 years experience
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Veterinarian Behavior Specialist
35
Board Certified (ACVB) VETERINARIAN Behaviorist Diagnoses anxiety/fear and prescribes medication
Collaborates with behavior specialist
American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior www.avsabonline.org
Veterinary Behaviorist: www.dacvb.org/resources/find/
Online Behavior Consults: www.tufts.edu/vet/petfax
Purdue Veterinary School: Dr. Luescher or Dr. Bennett at 765-494-1107 will confer with veterinarians
Animal Behavior Society Diplomat (ABS) Behaviorist May not be a veterinarian (cannot diagnose or
prescribe meds)
Generally a Phd
www.animalbehaviorsociety.org Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Trainer with Behavior Knowledge
36
Approach Reward-based training approach using a marker
signal Absolutely no verbal or physical punishment
Education/Qualifications: No independent, standardized test that assesses
practical skills today Karen Pryor Academy-Certified Training Partner (KPA-
CTP) www.findagreatdogtrainer.com International Association of Animal Behavior
Consultants (IAABC) www.iaabc.org
Experience: Minimum 3 years with anxiety/fear issues
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Trainer must have….
37
Traditional techniques:
Drawback is that it requires the learner to experience the scary thing over and over until: Habituation (learn to ignore) Desensitization (learn to
accept) Flooding (retreat into
learned helplessness –avoid using this technique!)
Modern techniques used by
behavior specialists and
progressive trainers:
Counter conditioning
/desensitization (CC/DS)
Operant CC/DS
Operant Conditioning &
Classical Conditioning:
• Shaping (mark/reward)
• Targeting (mark/reward)
Knowledge of basic behavior modification techniques and
experience in using appropriate techniques:
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Rehabilitation: A Team Effort
38
Behavior Specialist
Veterinarian
(General)
Foster Home
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Foster Home Role
39
Voice of the Dog / Advocate: provide information back to the team regarding progress, specific fears, any new learning (i.e. fear of thunderstorms)
Understand Guiding Principles
Build Relationship Based on Trust
Teach 5 Foundation Skills
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Training/Relationship
- Guiding Principles
40
Empowerment Give choices to the dog
Dr. Susan Friedman articleshttp://www.behaviorworks.org/htm/articles_behavior_change.html
Click on „He Said She Said, Science Says‟ – just substitute „puppy mill dog‟ for parrot when you read the article
Enrichment Introduce food-dispensing toys
Introduce toys for play (place treats in a soft toy with stuffing removed)
Introduce appropriate chewing items (bully sticks, antlers)
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Training/Relationship- Guiding Principles
41
Expectations Realistic Goals: It takes as
long as it takes. Have a plan, but be willing to make adjustments.
Regression: Three steps forward, two steps back
Reality: Forgive yourself for mistakes; learn, do better next time
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Training/Relationship - Guiding Principles
42
Dogs Do
What Works!
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
43
Practiced behaviors
will get stronger
Whatever behavior is
rewarded will be
repeated.
1. REWARD desired
behavior
2. Ignore or Manage
undesired behavior
Dogs Do What Works!
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Dogs Do What Works!
44
The DOG determines
the value of the reward
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Dogs Do What Works!
45
For Puppy Mill Survivors:
Food may not have enough
value
Distance – you leaving the
area
Access – to outdoors,
indoors, crate, other dogs
Lucy Blue
does NOT
find this
rewarding!
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
46
You are Training
Every Single Time
You Interact!
Training/Relationship - Guiding Principles
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Establishing „Trust‟ Account
47
Negative Experience
Positive Experience
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Establishing „Trust‟ Account
48
Negative Experience
Positive Experience
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Establishing „Trust‟ Account
49
Negative Experience
Positive Experience
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Build Relationship Based on Trust
50
LOVE
LANGUAGE
LEADERSHIP
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
LOVE
51
Definition: giving of yourself without
expecting anything in return*.
Not affection. Not necessarily reciprocal.
Empowerment – allowing the dog to make
choices
* (M. SCOTT PECK – The Road Less Traveled) Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
LANGUAGE: Listen to the Dog
52
Continual observation of dog‟s body
language
Slow, patient interactions
Avoid triggering anxious behavior (keep below threshold)
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
LEADERSHIP: Benevolence
53
Dominance / pack theory is outdated and irrelevant
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Build Relationship Based on Trust
54
LEADERSHIP: Benevolent leadership
Leaders control access to resources, and seldom raise their voices
Avoid physical punishment and threats
Use positive reinforcement in all interactions Treats / food
Distance (you going away from the dog is rewarding!)
Access to other dogs, crate, outdoors, indoors (anything the DOG finds desirable)
Use appropriate tools
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Basic Tools Overview
55
Drag line: several 6‟ lightweight leashes with the
handle removed that can be easily washed
Standard collar: buckle collar with identification
Long line: 30‟ or longer
Walking management tools: Martingale collar /
Premier EasyWalk harness
Confinement/housetraining: crates / exercise pens /
secure gates / enzymatic cleaners /belly band
Food: high quality, no corn
Other supporting tools
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Supporting Tools
56
Anti-anxiety drugs prescribed by veterinarian
Supplements recommended by veterinarian
• L-theanine, Composure, etc
Tools that MUST be properly introduced:
• Visual: Calming Cap
• Tactile: ThunderShirt
• Olfactory: Comfort Zone (DAP)
• Auditory: Dog's Ear CD
Other appropriate dogs
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
YOUR Behavior – Most Critical Tool
57
YOUR behavior
Prudent: Every time you interact with the dog, the dog is
learning something.
Patient: Lower expectations and take the time it takes.
Expect setbacks.
Predictable: Establish and follow routine. Use consistent
words or phrases so the dog knows what to expect from
you.
Listen to the Dog
Understand how dogs communicate
Change your behavior or the environment accordingly
Progress in teaching the 5 Foundation Skills at the dog‟s pace
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
5 Foundation Skills
58
Socialization
Handling
Crate Training
House Training
Leash Training
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
1. Crate Training
59
GOAL: Enter crate with
physical/verbal cue. Leave
the crate willingly.
Dog should view the crate
as a „safe haven‟
Feed the dog in the
crate; introduce food
dispensing toys and soft
fleece toy stuffed with
treats
Transport in a crate
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
1. Crate Training
60
May need to experiment
with different types of
crates and pans.
Start with wire crate with open top, metal
pan, no bedding.
Bedding can be added if the dog is not
soiling the crate.Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
2. House Training
61
Follow the standard puppy housetraining
recommendations with appropriate adjustments
Use confinement with a novel crate, and later, an
exercise pen
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
2. House Training
62
Set up exercise pen outdoors within fenced yard, using the same surface the dog is accustomed to use for elimination
Many puppy mill dogs will not eliminate with people nearby, or while on leash, or if it is noisy, or if it is daylight, or if the wind is blowing…..
Consider using belly band or pants during first few weeks
If the crate becomes soiled: 1. Completely clean crate with enzymatic cleaner
2. Thoroughly bathe the dog (with as little stress as possible. No slip mat, no standing water, quiet, gentle handling)
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
3. Leash Training
63
Most dogs can be very easy to leash train as they have never practiced pulling (oppositional reflex)
Train in safely confined area with a buckle collar using positive reinforcement and teaching the dog to „give‟ to the leash pressure
Use properly fitted martingale collar if walking in an unconfined area
Transition to a no pull harness such as EasyWalk once the dog is no longer a flight risk
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
4. Handling
64
Name the body part you are touching so the dog
can begin to predict what you will do
Goal: Voluntary versus forced
Key Areas:1. Brushing and combing
2. Examining eyes, ears, mouth, body
3. Gentle restraint
Entire body
Feet and nails
4. Trimming / hair clippers
5. Nail clipping using dremel or clippers
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
5. Socialization
65
POSITIVE exposure to new: People Places Things
Slow, careful introduction from the sidelines rather than placing the dog right in the middle of a potentially frightening situation
A socially-appropriate, confident dog can be invaluable partner. Dogs will model the behavior of other dogs Play is socially contagious! Emotion is socially contagious!
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Avoiding Isolation Distress
66
Low key arrivals
and departures
Departures should
be paired with
SPECIAL treat
Sleep in separate room
Crate time or down time when you are
present
Pair with a confident dog during absences
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
4 Week Training Outline
67
Guidelines Only – each dog is unique, and each
training plan should be adjusted accordingly
Work with a qualified behaviorist / experienced
trainer to develop and modify the training plan
for your unique dog
This plan was an attempt to gain the basic
foundation skills as quickly as possible – some
dogs need much more time to achieve these
skills
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
4 Week Training Outline – Week 1
68
Minimal interaction with the dog during the first 24 hours. Place the crate in a quiet, low traffic area with minimal distractions. Allow friendly dogs to visit outside the crate. Leave many different types of food in the crate to determine what the dog might be interested in eating.
Then, move the crate to room you frequently use, but cover 90% of the crate. When you pass by, avoid eye contact, drop the dog‟s favored food in the top of the crate and immediately leave.
On the second day, attach and leave a drag line on the dog‟s buckle collar. When you need to remove the dog from the crate, extend the leash outside the crate so you can stand on it (prevents the dog from practicing bolting/escape behaviors). If the dog is willing to leave the crate, then stand to the side or with your back to the dog and allow it to exit the crate. Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
4 Week Training Outline – Week 1
69
Most likely you will need to carry the dog outside. Use
the same phrase before you pick the dog up so that he
can begin to predict your behavior. Be sure to use non-
threatening body language and keep the dog‟s face away
from your face.
Use the exercise pen or other outside confinement area
rather than allowing the dog loose in the yard. Leave a
well-socialized, friendly dog in the large yard with the
dog. You may need to go inside, or to a remote area of
the yard, for the dog to feel comfortable emptying the
bowels or bladder.
If the dog is eating readily, begin conditioning the dog to
the clicker when they are eating.
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
4 Week Training Outline – Week 2
70
Begin taking the dog out for brief periods of time for sessions of gentle brushing.
Every interaction with you must be positive.
Increase the amount of attention and upbeat talking while the dog is confined. Many repetitions of approach/treat/retreat, spending longer times at the crate or x-pen after leaving the treat if the dog will eat with a person nearby.
Allow the dog to explore a new closed area of your house each evening, while wearing the drag line. Ensure that all their bathroom needs have been met outside first. Include a friendly, well-socialized dog in the room.
Introduce DAP/Thundershirt during relaxed downtime if the dog is adjusting well
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
4 Week Training Outline – Week 3
71
Begin gentle handling exercises using the clicker.
Begin leash training exercises with drag line attached
to buckle collar:
Slowly following the dog through a room they feel safe in
while they drag the leash
Next, hold the leash gently while you follow them
Next, teach the dog to give to pressure by applying gentle
pressure and CLICK/TREAT when they „give‟ to the pressure
Repeat all steps in order in the fenced back yard
Provide soft fleece toy stuffed with food in crate and
other food dispensing toys in crate
Dog has not yet earned the privilege of free access to
the house. Must be on leash and carefully supervised.
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
4 Week Training Outline – Week 4
72
If needed, begin DS/CC for car rides.
Make arrangements for group Shy Dog class, or regular
meeting times with other foster homes for socialization
Field trip to other SUITABLE foster home
Bring crate
Use drag line and keep the dog on leash at all times
Allow the dog to explore the fenced back yard with
you following
Keep the visit short; no more than 1 hour
Provide soft fleece toy stuffed with food in crate and
other food dispensing toys in crate
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Overview of Shy Dog Group Class
73
Understanding Canine Body
Language
Approach/treat/retreat exercises
Hand Targeting
Handling
Homework
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Understanding Canine Body Language
74
Remain below dog‟s threshold
Handler develops observation skills and
learns how to modify their behavior or
the environment to achieve success
Information used to adjust the exercise;
decrease, maintain or increase intensity
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Approach/treat/retreat exercises
75
Indirect approach; treats dropped from hand; immediate departure
Indirect approach; treats taken from hand; immediate departure
Direct approach; treats taken from hand; immediate departure
Direct approach; treats taken from hand; delayeddeparture. (Add brief, gentle touching next step)
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Approach/treat/retreat exercises
76
Week 1 – only the instructor
Week 2 – other handlers that are non-
threatening
Week 3 – add additional handlers and
increase pressure in approach as dogs are
ready
Week 4 - add additional handlers and
increase pressure in approach as dogs are
ready
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Hand Targeting
77
Teach the dog to touch nose to hand on cue
Week 2 – target handler‟s hand in class
and at home
Week 3 – target instructor‟s hand
Week 4 – target other handler‟s hand
and perhaps other objects
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Handling
78
Discussed during
class, but practiced
at home
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Handling and Homework
79
Homework
watch videos
read handouts and web content
written exercises in observation and
handling
practice with strangers in the home
field trips to public places
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
80
We spend the MOST time in class
on this important topic and
skill….
Understanding
Canine Body Language
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
We know
they must be
talking to us
all the time.
We can only imagine
what they are thinking.
We can never
know for sure.
81SOURCE: What is My Dog Saying? Photo CD by Carol Byrnes
82
When humans think “body language” we tend to focus on what
the ears and tail are saying. We listen for the growl or bark.
But these are only a tiny piece of the canine communication ballet.
Dogs speak with their bodiesThey communicate through:
• Facial Expression
• Tail & ear carriage
• Posture
• Vocalizations
Barking, whining, growling, howling
But that’s not all …
SOURCE: What is My Dog Saying? Photo CD by Carol Byrnes
A dog signals intent and
stress level in many ways:
83
Weight shift
Blinking, licking,
yawning, sniffing
Looking – or not looking
Pupil dilation
Corners of mouth
Posture, tenseness
of face/body muscles
Bend of elbow
Respiration rate
Speed and direction
of movement
The most SUBTLE
body language signals
carry great meaning:
• An almost imperceptible
shift of weight
• Change in breathing
• Tenseness of muscles
• Squinting eyes, blinking
Such as:
SOURCE: What is My Dog Saying? Photo CD by Carol Byrnes
Communication signals are designed to:
84
Create distance.
Decrease distance.
Express politeness, show friendliness, resolve conflict
Express fear, reluctance or discomfort.
Express joy!
Rocking horse gait and big smiles – these are happy dogs!SOURCE: What is My Dog Saying? Photo CD by Carol Byrnes
We will focus on:
85
Create distance.
Decrease distance.
Express politeness, show friendliness, resolve conflict
Express fear, reluctance or discomfort.
Express joy!
SOURCE: What is My Dog Saying? Photo CD by Carol Byrnes
CANINE COMMUNICATION- not a complete list – evaluate the context
86
SIGNS OF CANINE STRESS DISPLACEMENT /
APPEASEMENT
Dog Won‟t Eat Look Aways *
Yawning * Paw Raises *
Lip Licking * Sniffing
Tucked/Low Tail Scratching
Ears Pinned Back Sneezing
Slow/Little Movement Shaking Off
Pacing Blinking
Trembling • Pretending interest in
environment
Freezes • Sitting or laying down
Stiff Posture Curving approach
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
THE STRESS
ESCALATION
LADDER
- Turid Rugaas87
Extreme levels of stress
Dog is forced to take action.
Preparation to take action.
Low levels of stressCommunication efforts to
lower stress levels & perceived
aggressive behaviors in others.
Displacement behaviors:
Sniffing the ground
Scratching
Calming signals:
Yawning
Lip licking
Looking away
Turning away
Moving slowly
STRESS REACTIONS:
Panting
Pupil dilation
Shaking off adrenaline
Sweating paws
Trembling / shaking
Whale eye
Hackling
FOCUS:
Loss of calming signals
Close mouth - Freeze
Preparing to defend:
Showing teeth
Growling
Flight / withdrawal
BITE!
LUNGE
SOURCE: What is My Dog Saying? Photo CD by Carol Byrnes
Goal is to keep
the dog below the
threshold level
at all times
88
Extreme levels of stress
Dog is forced to take action.
Preparation to take action.
Low levels of stressCommunication efforts to
lower stress levels & perceived
aggressive behaviors in others.
Displacement behaviors:
Sniffing the ground
Scratching
Appeasement signals:
Yawning
Lip licking
Looking away
Turning away
Moving slowly
STRESS REACTIONS:
Panting
Pupil dilation
Shaking off adrenaline
Sweating paws
Trembling / shaking
Whale eye
Hackling
FOCUS:
Loss of calming signals
Close mouth - Freeze
Preparing to defend:
Showing teeth
Growling
Flight / withdrawal
BITE!
LUNGE
SOURCE: What is My Dog Saying? Photo CD by Carol Byrnes
HUMAN / CANINE
COMMUNICATION
89
THREATENING HUMAN
COMMUNICATION
CALMING HUMAN
COMMUNICATION
Direct Approach Indirect (curvy) Approach
Direct Eye Contact Averted Eyes
Fast Movement Slow/Little Movement
Leaning Over/Looming Squatting Down / Laying
Down
Front of Body Facing Dog Turning Sideways
Loud or Deep Tone of Voice Silence
Touching Dog (pet, poke, hug) Allow Dog to Make Physical
Contact
Prolonged Eye Contact BRIEF Look Aways
Smiling / Teeth Exposure Yawning / Lip Licking
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com
Her voice may say, “Come!”
But her body language says,
“Stay where you are, I’m
dangerous.”
90
• Leaning forward, staring, reaching
• Predatory stance contradicts the
invitation to come closer.
• If the dog comes, she will probably
come slowly on a curve.
• Dogs who circle just out of reach are not
saying, “neener, neener, can‟t catch me!”
They are conflicted – they want to come,
but your body language creates a buffer,
repelling them away.
SOURCE: What is My Dog Saying? Photo CD by Carol Byrnes
Shoulders square, facing, reaching, elicits appeasement
91Excitement or submissive urination are triggered by this greeting posture.
Groveling on approach doesn’t automatically mean “abused” –
more often, it’s just a sensitive or under-socialized dog, not a mistreated one.
SOURCE: What is My Dog Saying? Photo CD by Carol Byrnes
92
Proper greeting
side presentation, shoulder to dog
Confident dog
Bad human!
Shy dog
Relaxed, friendly eye contact.Human's body weight shifted away, inviting puppy in.
The tiniest shift in weight or physical orientation can make a huge difference.
SOURCE: What is My Dog Saying? Photo CD by Carol Byrnes
Proper greeting for Shy Dogs
93
Practice IGNORING the dog
Teach your guests to IGNORE the
dog
If the dog seems curious, attempt
greeting by having the person:
Turned sideways
Relaxed
Offering hand for sniffing (but not
reaching)
Not Staring. Either soft eyes or
avoiding eye contact
Photo SOURCE: What is My Dog
Saying? Photo CD by Carol
Byrnes
Copyright 2011 Tracy Buck www.TracyBuck.com