Think Like a Dog Millie Braden and Andreia Albies

In this episode, Bianca from Mindful Dog Co. discusses the importance of co-regulation in dog training. She explains that being cool, calm, and collected is not enough if the client and the dog have dysregulated nervous systems. Bianca emphasizes the need for fluidity in emotions and the ability to come back to a regulated state. She also highlights the role of somatic experiencing in dog training and how dogs pick up on subtle changes in our nervous system. Bianca shares strategies for working with reactive dogs and the importance of checking in with ourselves and our dogs during training sessions. The conversation explores the importance of boundaries and emotional regulation in dog training. It emphasizes the need for dog owners to understand their own feelings and how they impact their dogs. 

Takeaways


Co-regulation is important in dog training, as both the client and the dog need to have regulated nervous systems.Calmness is a byproduct of nervous system regulation, which allows for fluidity in emotions.Dogs pick up on subtle changes in our nervous system, so it's important to be aware of our own emotions during training.Checking in with ourselves and our dogs during training sessions is crucial for building a strong connection and understanding. Setting boundaries and practicing emotional regulation are crucial in dog training.Body language plays a significant role in communicating with dogs.Dogs should be treated as individuals with their own emotions and needs.It is important to recognize and respect a dog's boundaries.Projection of one's needs onto a dog can hinder the development of a healthy relationship. Understanding and meeting the emotional needs of dogs is crucial for their well-being.Creating a routine and setting boundaries can help dogs feel more comfortable and secure.Engaging in activities that dogs instinctually enjoy, such as sniffing, can strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners.Mindful Dog Co. offers a range of services, including board and train programs, workshops on boundaries and somatic experiencing, and virtual sessions.

Connect with Bianca:
Website: https://mindfuldog.co/
Instagram: @Mindfuldogco.bianca






Work with Millie here: https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactus
Instagram:
@thinklikeadogpodcast
@Mirrorimagek9
@OzzieAlbiesFoundation

Yogi, a five-month-old Australian Shepherd, is experiencing reactivity and fearfulness towards strangers and objects. The issue started when he was around three months old. Yogi was obtained from a breeder who had multiple puppies at the same time, so individual socialization may have been lacking. Yogi's leash walking is good, but he becomes reactive when he sees triggers. He spends time in a crate or playpen when not supervised and is tethered when out in the house. Yogi has a short attention span on place and tends to hop off after a few minutes. He reacts to people carrying objects and changes in appearance. Yogi's reactions are milder towards family members and he can be redirected with treats.  In this part of the conversation, Abbi and Millie discuss Yogi's reactive behavior and how to address it. They talk about how Yogi hides under objects when he feels threatened and barks at people or objects that approach him. They also discuss the use of leash corrections and the importance of teaching Yogi alternative ways to cope with his feelings of insecurity. Millie emphasizes the need for Yogi to connect back to Abbi in moments of reactivity and suggests leash drills to practice this.

Takeaways


Reactivity and fearfulness in puppies can be a result of inadequate socialization.Tethering and using a crate can help manage a puppy's behavior when not supervised.Building a strong place command can help a puppy learn to be calm and observe the environment without reacting.Using place work can create a safe space for a reactive dog and help them understand that they don't need to react to everything.It's important for a reactive dog to connect back to their owner in moments of reactivity.Leash drills can help a dog practice connecting back to their owner and staying calm in the presence of triggers.Advocating for a reactive dog by using place and managing their environment can help reduce their reactions. Use the pressure and release method to help a reactive dog calm down and learn that nothing will happen to them while on place.Practice place work in different environments and gradually introduce triggers to help the dog build confidence.Use a tether to teach the dog how to handle their reactions and self-soothe.




Work with Millie here: https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactus
Instagram:
@thinklikeadogpodcast
@Mirrorimagek9
@OzzieAlbiesFoundation

Join hosts Millie and Andreia as they welcome Victoria, the founder of From The Heart Dog Services and director of Boxer Haven Rescue.  Victoria shares her journey into dog training and her passion for helping dogs. She discusses the challenges of working with dogs with behavioral issues and the importance of building a strong relationship with your dog. 

Victoria emphasizes the need for education and research in order to provide the best care for dogs and important factors to consider before getting a dog, such as the cost of ownership and matching dog breeds to lifestyle. She discusses the challenges of reactivity and insecurity in dogs, and sheds light on how setting boundaries and rules can help them thrive. 
Tune in as Victoria reveals her proven approach to setting training goals, drawing from her vast expertise. Don't miss out on this enlightening episode, where you'll gain profound insights into understanding, training, and building a stronger connection with your dog. 

Takeaways
Building a strong relationship with your dog is key to successful training.Dog ownership requires commitment, education, and a willingness to adapt.Rescue organizations play a vital role in finding homes for dogs and providing support to adopters.Education and research are essential for understanding and meeting the needs of your dog. Consider the cost of owning a dog, including vetting, training, and boarding expenses.Match the breed and energy level of a dog to your lifestyle and activity level.Understand that owning multiple dogs requires additional training, care, and consideration.Recognize that behavior change requires setting boundaries and rules, and may be uncomfortable but necessary for long-term success.
Connect With Victoria:
Website: https://fromtheheartdogservices.com/
Instagram: @VictoriaLifeWithDogs

Connect With Boxer Haven Dog Rescue:
https://boxerhaven.org/
Work with Millie here: https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactus
Instagram:
@thinklikeadogpodcast
@Mirrorimagek9
@OzzieAlbiesFoundation

In this conversation, Kat discusses her experiences with her dog Piper, who exhibits reactivity and fear-based behaviors. Kat shares the challenges she faces in managing Piper's behavior in a shared house environment and with guests. They discuss the importance of structure and boundaries, as well as the use of crate training and place training. Kat seeks advice on how to improve Piper's behavior on walks and reduce her reactivity towards other dogs. The conversation concludes with a recap of the strategies discussed.

Takeaways


Establishing structure and boundaries can help manage a dog's reactivity and fear-based behaviors.Crate training and place training can provide a safe and structured environment for a fearful dog.Managing a dog's behavior in a shared house environment requires open communication and consideration for housemates.Understanding a dog's body language and triggers can help in addressing their fear and anxiety.Consistency and patience are key in improving a dog's behavior and building their confidence.




Work with Millie here: https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactus
Instagram:
@thinklikeadogpodcast
@Mirrorimagek9
@OzzieAlbiesFoundation

Mochi, a dog who experienced abuse and trauma, exhibits fearfulness and reactivity towards people and dogs. The lack of socialization during the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to her behavior. The owners have observed her fear of noises and movements, as well as her tendency to mark during walks. Mochi also displays reactivity towards people entering the home. The owners have implemented crate training and set boundaries, but they are seeking guidance on how to address Mochi's behavior and improve her quality of life. In this conversation, Millie provides guidance on leash drills, the importance of being the leader, allowing smells on walks, using the crate, setting boundaries in the bedroom, place training, tethering, and muzzle training. The main focus is on structure, boundaries, and teaching the dog to look to the owner for guidance and reassurance. The conversation emphasizes the need for consistency and clear communication to help the dog feel safe and secure in various situations.

Takeaways
Traumatic experiences and lack of socialization can contribute to fearfulness and reactivity in dogs.Structured walks and leash training can help establish boundaries and improve behavior.Crate training can provide a safe space for dogs and help them feel more secure.Owners should set clear rules and boundaries to establish leadership and provide guidance for their dogs. Consistency and clear communication are key in training a dog.Leash drills and structured walks help establish the owner as the leader.Allowing the dog to smell on walks should be on the owner's terms, not the dog's.Using the crate as a safe space and feeding the dog in the crate can reinforce positive associations.Setting boundaries in the bedroom helps establish the owner's personal space.Place training and tethering can help the dog learn to relax and stay in one place.Muzzle training can be beneficial for safety and confidence-building.Regular practice and reinforcement are essential for successful training.




Work with Millie here: https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactus
Instagram:
@thinklikeadogpodcast
@Mirrorimagek9
@OzzieAlbiesFoundation

In this episode, Millie and Andreia come together to explore a diverse range of dog training topics and provide answers to listener questions.  They offer invaluable insights to help you establish a harmonious relationship with your dog. Discover effective strategies for managing separation anxiety, creating boundaries and structure to reduce reactivity and anxiety, and understanding the root causes of insecurity and reactivity in dogs. Millie, drawing from her extensive experience in the dog training industry, she highlights the valuable lessons learned and offers practical advice for transforming canine behavior. In addition to their expertise in training, Millie and Andreia also share their personal journeys as devoted dog owners and active participants in rescue efforts. Tune in and unlock the keys to eliminating reactivity, fostering a different relationship with your dog, and cultivating a deeper understanding of their needs. Get ready for an episode filled with invaluable advice to help you create a more fulfilling and harmonious bond with your furry friend.



Work with Millie here: https://www.mirrorimagek9.com/contactus
Instagram:
@thinklikeadogpodcast
@Mirrorimagek9
@OzzieAlbiesFoundation