Relaxation Protocol from Dr. Karen Overall - Day #1

[mrsyardbroom]

I have a hyperactive OTT collie and we're on day 2. It really seems to be helping. I don't use a clicker or have treats visible and I reward when Sasha is fully relaxed. If she starts to wind up I use massage to calm her down and relax her again. I got someone to show me how to do relaxation massage around a dog's head and this helps a lot. I think it's important not to reward when a dog starts to get wound up but rather reward for relaxing. It's great to see videos of dogs doing RP.

[tailspinpetworx]

I haven't worked the protocol..which is why I was searching for it..but I just wanted to say if Griff gets overexcited when the food and clicker show up that you may need to work on desensitizing him to the presence of the clicker/bait bag..so that he doesn't think it's "work time" until you cue him it's work time.

Also, I'm curious...what breed is Griff? I'm thinking BC but unsure...he's really lovely looking.

[klwycoff123]

Thanks for the encouragement Kathy! I know it's so valuable, so I am going to persist!

[bordergirlsmom]

We love relaxation protocol here! I think it is such an important thing to have dogs understand that not moving can also be working too, and that in some situtions relaxation is what you want-fantastic info for doggies to get, but not easy when they are used to offering a lot ;-). Kathy with Lizzie/Breeze/Cricket