An animal’s natural instinct in life is to survive. If they feel threatened or feel as though their life is in danger, they will respond in a negative way such as biting. As humans, our job is to help the animal- in this case, a dog- learn when to react to danger and when not to. The main way we can do this is to associate body handling with a positive reward starting at a young age. This will help them learn that human touch is a good thing rather than scary and normalizes the overall experience.
It takes two.
Help the dog learn to engage in their healthcare and grooming in low-stress ways. Utilize the bare minimum restraint necessary. Any more is counter-productive and can cause the dog to panic and become resistant. Teach and practice basic behaviors that will allow the dog to participate in their care.
It works!
Through positive desensitization, a calm approach and active participation from the dog, we can accomplish several goals. First and most important- we keep people and dogs safe. Any averse stress for both handler and dog will be kept to a minimum. And of course, we can examine or groom our dogs!
Tools for Handling
Food - Use food strategically to reward the dog for tolerance and cooperation during care. Ex: Stuffed Kong, Licky mat, high-value treats, etc.
Voice - A single, low, quiet, calm voice can be very soothing to a dog. Be encouraging and positive
Petting - Use light, slow, long strokes to soothe the dog. Ex: Focused petting on chest and ear areas
Pressure - Can be used in restraint. Release or lighten pressure if the dog starts to show signs of panic. Ex. Pressure behind an elbow can keep a leg from moving forward without excessive force
Additional Handler - Some care tasks may require the assistance of an additional handler. Ex: nail trims, vaccinations, etc.
Prepare by Training
General - Get the dog comfortable sharing your space.
Grooming & Handling
Introducing Handling
It’s not instinctual.
An animal’s natural instinct in life is to survive. If they feel threatened or feel as though their life is in danger, they will respond in a negative way such as biting. As humans, our job is to help the animal- in this case, a dog- learn when to react to danger and when not to. The main way we can do this is to associate body handling with a positive reward starting at a young age. This will help them learn that human touch is a good thing rather than scary and normalizes the overall experience.
It takes two.
Help the dog learn to engage in their healthcare and grooming in low-stress ways. Utilize the bare minimum restraint necessary. Any more is counter-productive and can cause the dog to panic and become resistant. Teach and practice basic behaviors that will allow the dog to participate in their care.
It works!
Through positive desensitization, a calm approach and active participation from the dog, we can accomplish several goals. First and most important- we keep people and dogs safe. Any averse stress for both handler and dog will be kept to a minimum. And of course, we can examine or groom our dogs!
Tools for Handling
Prepare by Training
View our Grooming Guide for step-by-step instructions to build success with any care need.
The Grooming Basics video provides instructions and visual examples for care.
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Contact Us
763-331-3000info@candocanines.org
Location
9440 Science Center DriveNew Hope, Minnesota 55428
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