Weekly Purpose

Use breed traits to ask better questions and build a clear training plan.

Key Takeaways

• Use the 3-Column Framework: Observe behaviour (Column 1), challenge assumptions (Column 2), then use breed traits to ask guiding questions (Column 3). This shifts focus from labeling to understanding.
• Genetics Influence, Don’t Define: Heritability is not immutability. Breed traits are tendencies, not fixed outcomes. Your role is to understand these influences to choose better training starting points.
• Replace “Stop” with “Do”: Instead of suppressing unwanted behaviour, redirect the underlying drive into a structured alternative. For example, replace chaotic chasing with controlled flirt pole play.
• Build a Clear Communication System: Use specific marker words (e.g., take, get it, strike) to tell your dog not just that they were right, but what they did correctly and where the reward will appear.

Topics

Reframing Behaviour: The 3-Column Framework

• The goal is to use breed traits to ask better questions, not make predictions.
• This framework helps move from labeling to curiosity, enabling more effective training.
• Column 1: What can you see?
  • Objective, observable behavior only (e.g., “dog is pulling,” “dog is barking”).
• Column 2: What are you tempted to assume?
  • Challenge labels and stories (e.g., “he’s stubborn,” “typical terrier”).
  • These assumptions stop deeper inquiry and prevent progress.
• Column 3: What do you still need to understand?
  • Use breed traits as a lens to ask guiding questions.
  • Example: Instead of “he’s aggressive,” ask, “Is this dog more aware of perceived threats and unsure how to handle the pressure?”

Genetics & Heritability: Influence, Not Definition

• Genetics influence behavior but don’t fix it.
• Most traits are polygenic (influenced by many genes and the environment).
• Key Principle: Heritability does not mean immutability.
• Action: Ask, “What might be influencing this behavior?” to find a starting point for training.

Practical Application: Breed-Specific Engagement

• Use breed traits to find effective engagement starting points.
• Herding/Working Types (e.g., Shepherds, Collies):
  • Tendencies: Highly tuned to movement, environment, handler cues; can be overstimulated.
  • Engagement: Structured movement (patterned walking), clear directional changes, rewarding orientation back to handler.
• Terrier Types:
  • Tendencies: Persistent, environmentally driven, independent; reinforced by chasing, sniffing, investigating.
  • Engagement: Use the environment (scatter feeds, scent games), build value in interaction, use short, rewarding bursts of connection.
• Guardian/Protection Types:
  • Tendencies: Aware of potential threats; sensitive to unfamiliar people/environments. Reactivity often links to perceived responsibility.
  • Engagement: Distance is key, calm observation, rewarding disengagement. Build safety first.
• High Prey Drive (any breed):
  • Tendencies: Driven by movement, chase, fast reinforcement cycles. Suppression often fails.
  • Engagement: Controlled outlets (flirt pole), teach start/stop patterns, direct drive.

Building a Clear Communication System

• Replace “stop reacting” with “here’s what I’d like you to do instead.”
• Markers: Short, sharp signals that tell the dog they were correct at the precise moment.
• Marker Contract: Every marker signal must be followed by a reward.
• Building a Basic Marker (Yes):
  1. Say marker word.
  2. Immediately give a reward.
  3. Repeat until the dog expects a reward on hearing the word.
• Specific Markers for Clearer Communication:
  • Take: Food comes from hand → brings dog closer.
  • Get it: Roll/throw food away → creates movement and breaks fixation.
  • Strike: Go get toy with energy → rewards big decisions, builds drive.
  • Behind: Move behind handler → provides a safe reset position.
• Consequence Marker (Ah-ah): Signals “no, try again” without frustration.

Designing Your Dog’s Rehab Plan

• Keep the plan simple and repeatable.
• 1. Daily Outlet: Feed the dog’s drive first (e.g., scent work, structured play) to reduce pressure before training.
• 2. Controlled Exposure: Introduce triggers at a manageable level, applying markers and redirection.
• 3. Reset & Decompress: After training, use sniffing, slow walking, or mental stimulation to reduce stress stacking.
• Core Principle: Turn problems into jobs. Every problem behavior is a working drive that needs direction.

Next Steps

• Practice the 3-Column Framework:
  • Observe behaviour without judgment.
  • Challenge your assumptions.
  • Ask guiding questions using breed traits.
• Build Your Marker System:
  • Train a basic marker (Yes) away from distractions.
  • Select and practice one specific marker (e.g., Get it) to clearly define reward delivery.
• Create Your Dog’s Rehab Plan:
  • Design a simple, consistent plan with a daily outlet, controlled exposure, and decompression.
  • Post your plan in the group for feedback.