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Ever notice how much your canine pal uses their nose? Maybe you’ve seen them point their head downward and follow an invisible scent trail on the ground during walks, or perhaps the occasional aim upward to catch a whiff of something that’s probably a lot farther away that we realize. A dog’s sense of smell helps keep them safe, active, and mentally stimulated, and for that reason, dog nosework training can be a great activity for any canine companion to enjoy.  What is nosework?Nosework, also known as scent training for dogs, is an activity designed for canines to tap into their superior senses of smell to explore the fun and focus of scent detection. Scent detection is done by many working dogs to aid their human handlers with tasks ranging from K9 nosework to search for missing persons or illegal contraband, sniffing out diseases like cancer, detecting pests like bed bugs, and even finding culinary delicacies like truffles. While nosework pulls from the same structures and objectives as scent detection, it's generally used as a fun activity for non-working dogs, and affords countless benefits to both the pets and their parents. Why is nosework good for dogs?In order to understand what makes nosework so beneficial for dogs, it’s important to consider just what the act of sniffing means to a canine. Like people, dogs rely on the five neurological senses of sight, smell, sound, taste, and touch to navigate the world around them. Unlike us humans, however, smell is by far a dog’s most utilized sense, helping them decode and understand messages like where they are in relation to home, familiar people and animals, or even the age and sex of another dog based on clues left at an oft-frequented pee break spot out in the neighborhood.  Equipped with 1.5 million olfactory receptors, dogs’ noses are a huge help to them countless times per day. In addition to that wet snout, dogs possess something called the Jacobsen’s organ, which is located inside the naval cavity and opens into the top of the mouth. When the canine nose picks up a scent, the undetectable chemical components found within that smell go to the Jacobsen’s organ. Filled with nerves, the organ then sends these messages straight to the dog’s brain, where it processes them accordingly. Some “scents” that work through the Jacobsen’s organ include pheromones. Pheromones help mature dogs mate with potential partners, and newborn puppies identify their mothers and locate their milk before they’re able to see or hear anything. Allowing and encouraging a dog to use their phenomenal sense of smell helps them become confident in their surrounding, and their ability to navigate it. By assigning your companion a task like canine nosework, you’re setting them up to succeed by relying on what already comes naturally to them, making learning fun, especially as there’s a reward in it for them. As an added bonus, nosework training can help strengthen the bond between you and your dog by relying on direction, reward, trust, and teamwork to reach a goal together. What kind of dogs do noseworkWorking scent hounds are generally limited to a few specific breeds, but nosework can be enjoyed by any dog, regardless of their breed, age, sex, or temperament. Many people introduce their dogs to nosework to raise their confidence levels, help them improve their ability to focus on one task, or just to keep them mentally stimulated, which can be of huge help to dogs who spend a lot of time at home alone. Additionally, nosework can benefit dogs who simply don’t enjoy group activities, or may be a little up there in age or weight, which might make taking part in more demanding physical activities a bit difficult for them. How to get started with noseworkIf you’re interested in nosework for your dog, getting started is pretty simple and straightforward, although there are a few things to keep in mind to get the most out of you and your dog’s sessions. The main components of dog nosework training are:
To get your dog using their nose, you’ll need to get a few nosework supplies, which you may already have around your home. The fun part of finding your supplies is identifying a smell that your dog absolutely loves and will sniff out. This item will depend on your individual dog, but some popular materials include deli slices, small bits of cheese, training treats, or even a favorite toy. Next, you’ll need to hide this item inside of something — many people like to use cardboard boxes, although some prefer plastic cups or bowls. It’s recommended that you start out with only a couple of boxes to let your dog experience finding the target before working your way up, which will guarantee success and keep things fun and rewarding for your canine pal.  For basic DIY nosework at home, take your valuable scented resource and hide it under one box. You will either need to leash your dog up somewhere away from the boxes, or have a friend hold them while you hide the treat, but allow them to watch as you touch the boxes, move them around, and hide the treat at first (just be careful not to transfer the scent of the treat onto the other boxes, which can result in confusion for your dog.) If your canine friend is new to dog nose work games, start with just one or two boxes in the room, and just let them use their nose to sniff out the treat. If they’re having a little trouble understanding the objective, which is completely normal for beginners, you can guide them a little toward the box that the treat is hidden under. It’s generally discouraged to get too involved in the sniffing out process, but some dogs may take a little time catching on to the game, so feel free to walk with your dog as you both meander around and through the boxes you have laid out, or even pretend to look or poke around boxes as well, which may encourage your friend to get into the rhythm of things. Dog scent training games are meant to be fun and stimulating for your dog, so remember to be patient and encouraging if your dog isn’t quite sure what to do, while also keeping in mind that scent games are meant to teach your dog to rely on their nose, and not your instruction. When your dog has identified the correct box, give them the high-value reward they sniffed out immediately, and be sure to do this at the box they stopped at, praising them for a job well done. Once your dog has gotten the hang of it, add more boxes to the mix, but be sure to only place the reward under one of the boxes. If you had your dog leave the room before, try experimenting with leaving them in the room while you hide the reward, and pretend to hide it under several different boxes so that they really have to use their nose to find the right box the treat is hidden beneath. If DIY dog nosework training isn’t working for you or your canine friend, or if you just want more guidance or stimulation for your dog, there are classes and seminars designed to teach dog nosework training. Local trainers and training facilities in your area may offer dog nosework classes in person. Online videos can also provide a wealth of practical knowledge to help you get started along your nosework journey, with tips and suggestions for the beginner, along with advanced varieties and techniques for those looking to increase their challenge level. Additionally, you can check out blogs written by reputable dog trainers to learn efficient and effective ways to properly teach your dog nosework. Intermediate and advanced noseworkHas your dog mastered the DIY nosework course you’ve mapped out for them? Looking to continue their growth and challenge them even more? There are a number of things you can do to help your dog continue to excel, including AKC nosework. These classes mimic the training that scent detection K9 officers undergo as part of their job, and entails a bit more skill and precision. To teach your dog AKC scent work, you’ll implement the same format using different materials. Supplies include:
To begin, leave the room your dog is in, apply your disposable gloves, and add two drops of birch oil onto two cotton swabs. Place the swabs in the glass jar, seal it, and throw your gloves away in a far away receptacle, taking extra care to not transfer the oil onto your hands by turning the gloves inside out. Then, use your tweezers to place a swab in the empty container, and seal your tweezers in a bag (it’s extremely important that you not contaminate anything with an item that came into contact with the birch oil, as the scent can throw the entire session off.) Introduce your dog to the smell by allowing them to smell the container and giving them a reward with a verbal command, like “yes,” every time they smell it, and repeat this a few times. Finally, place the container that’s holding the swab in your plastic jar and repeat, allowing your dog to smell it and offering a reward when they do. You can try placing the jar in plain sight on the ground a few times as well and reward your dog when they smell it to get them acclimated with the objective. Once you have this down, hide the jar and see if your dog can find it, rewarding them as soon as they do. In addition to nosework games inside of your home or training facility, conducting scent work sessions outdoors may break up the routine, as well as offer added stimulation thanks to a wealth of environmental scents around you. Nosework games can also be done in other enclosed areas, like inside of vehicles, for example. Interior, exterior, and vehicular searches are all part of K9 nosework competitions, in which additional scents, like anise and clove, are added to the courses.  Variants on noseworkBecause a dog’s nose is so strong and relied-upon, there are a seemingly endless number of opportunities to utilize it for their benefit, with a little creativity on your part. Nosework toys can be purchased in pet supply stores or online, and can make nosework games possible for dogs in limited spaces, like small apartments. Nosework games can be played to break things up and encourage your dog to explore scent detection even more. You can keep things fun simply by switching out the containers you hide the reward inside of for other objects, like cups, bowls, or flower pots. To create your own DIY nosework toy, try placing tennis balls on top of a muffin tin, then place your reward under one of the balls, allowing your dog to sniff out the right one. Other resourcesDog nosework can be enjoyed as an at-home activity to keep your dog stimulated, or as a competitive sport. If you’re looking to expand your dog’s involvement in nosework, the National Association of Canine Scent Work is a great resource for learning more about the sport, connecting with other nosework pet parents, and finding classes and competitions around the country. Additionally, the Barn Hunt Association offers nosework competitions, and the NACSW Facebook page provides a great place to connect with other canine nosework enthusiasts. Trainer Review of this ArticleThere is so much misinformation out there, we want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community. We have all of our articles reviewed by qualified, positive-only trainers.
This is the trainer that reviewed this article: Olivia Peterson, CCS Owner - Sound Connection Dog Training WSU Bachelors in Animal Science Business Management Northwest School of Canine Studies (NWSCS) Certification
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* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details * If you’re a dog owner, you’ve probably heard, and possibly been annoyed by, your dog barking, at one time or another. But what do your dog’s barks mean? They can mean a variety of different things depending on pitch, duration, frequency, and context.  Why do dogs bark?Dogs can’t talk, but they communicate with us in many ways, including body language and various sounds. A dog may bark for many reasons: to warn us, to tell us they are excited, to invite play, to communicate fear, to protect their territory, and the list goes on. Dr. Stanley Coren, author of How to Speak Dog: Mastering the Art of Dog-Human Communication, notes that dogs, like most other animals, use a “sound code,” meaning they modify their barks based on what they are trying to communicate. This sound code, according to Dr. Coren, uses three dimensions: pitch, duration, and frequency. Pitch: Among animals, low-pitched sounds typically indicate threats or the possibility of aggression—think of a dog’s growl. Conversely, higher sounds (like a dog’s whimper) mean “I am no threat, it’s safe to approach me.” Duration: Dr. Coren says that the longer the sound, “the more likely that the dog is making a conscious decision about the nature of the signal and his next behaviors.” Thus, a sustained growl is likely a conscious decision to communicate that the dog is standing their ground. Frequency: If a dog repeats their bark frequently and at a fast rate, it indicates a high degree of excitement or urgency. (For example, a dog who fears the mail carrier will likely stand at the window barking repeatedly when the mail carrier arrives.) Conversely, barks that are more spaced out, or not repeated at all, indicate lower levels of excitement. Common situations when dogs bark and how to interpret themThere are almost countless situations in which dogs may bark. It’s important to remember that barking is not inherently “wrong” and that no dog should be expected to never bark. However, there is such a thing as excessive barking in many different situations. Here’s what your dog may be trying to tell you when they bark in these common situations. (In the next section, we’ll cover what to do when your dog barks.) Dog barking in crate: As long as you are sure your dog is comfortable in their crate (they’ve been fed and have gone to the bathroom recently, and have access to water and a comfortable place to lie down within their crate), your dog is likely barking for attention. If this is a brand new behavior, check to make sure they aren’t hurt or exhibiting signs of illness. If they seem fine, they are likely just barking to get your attention. Dog barking at me, their owner: The meaning of a dog barking at their owner is entirely dependent on the situation, so you will have to do some detective work to figure this one out. If you just arrived home, your dog is probably barking to greet you and because they are excited. If your dog has their butt in the air and their front end low to the ground, exhibiting “play bow,” they are trying to get you to play with them. The above examples are relatively easy to figure out, but some situations might be tougher. As we covered earlier, take into consideration the pitch, duration, and frequency of your dog’s bark, as well as the situation you are in. Is it nighttime and your dog was spooked by a sound from outside? Are you on a walk, and your dog could have seen a squirrel that you didn’t see? And of course, there is always the possibility that they are simply barking to get your attention.  High-pitched barking: A dog who is barking in a high-pitched tone might be enjoying themselves, maybe during playtime or another fun activity. In another situation, a higher-pitched bark might communicate loneliness. High-pitched barking is generally not a “warning” type of barking, as those tend to be lower. (If you have a small dog, their bark may naturally just be high, so take that into consideration.) Dog barking at night: Like the other scenarios, there are several reasons why your dog may bark at night. They might be barking at wild animals nearby that only come out at night, or they might hear people coming home from work and slamming their car doors. If you sleep in a different room than your dog, they may bark because they are lonely. Barking at night is not necessarily tied to the nighttime itself. It may just be that your dog is barking because they are bored or trying to get your attention, and nighttime is when you are home to notice it, or you’re trying to relax so it annoys you more. Dog barking at “nothing”: Dogs can smell and hear things that are imperceptible to us. People often think their dog is barking at “nothing” or perhaps even suspect the dog is barking at a ghost. In reality, your dog is probably barking at something that you simply cannot pick up on. This might be a smell that’s too subtle for humans to detect, or a frequency in the ultrasonic range. It might be that a wild animal is nearby and your dog can smell it! However, that’s not always the case. Your dog may also be barking out of boredom or to get your attention. It can be hard to tell the difference sometimes, but try to observe if your dog tends to bark more on days when they get less exercise or less play time—if they do, boredom barking is a strong possibility. Lastly, if your dog is older and the barking at “nothing” is a new behavior, consider taking them to a vet to get checked out. It’s possible that they may be exhibiting signs of canine dementia.  What should I do when my dog barks?The action you should take when your dog barks depends on the context. Dogs use barking to communicate with us and with other dogs, and they should not be expected to never bark. Trainer Karen Pryor says to assess the whole situation, explaining that barking is sometimes a symptom of a larger problem, like boredom, stress, or fear. For example, if your dog has gotten less exercise than usual and seems to be barking more, they are likely bored and need more exercise. In a case like that, treating barking alone is futile, as the problem itself (boredom/lack of exercise) needs to be treated. If your dog is barking excessively in any situation, start by learning what not to do: don’t engage with them at all. This includes yelling or snapping at them to be quiet. It may seem like responding in an angry voice would work, but it only comes across as you “participating” in their barking. When you engage with your dog’s barking in any way, you are rewarding them and encouraging them to repeat the behavior. Instead, ignore your dog’s barking for as long as it takes them to stop. Don’t give them any attention at all, including looking at them. Look away, turn your back, completely ignore them. When the dog finally quiets down—even if it’s only for a second—praise and reward them with a treat. (This is what you should do even if your dog is barking from within the confines of their crate.) Once your dog catches on (which may take a few times), increase the length of time they have to be quiet before they get the treat. In addition, do what you can to manage your dog’s environment, especially if they are barking in response to certain stimuli. For example, if they bark at passersby that they can see through the window, close the blinds. If they bark when they hear someone talking outside, try putting on white noise, such as audio of rain sounds. Or, if you know the mail carrier usually comes around 3:00 and that sets your dog off, take them for a walk starting at 2:45. Get creative with the factors that are in your control! You can also teach your dog an “incompatible behavior” instead of simply being quiet. This means teaching your dog to engage in a behavior that inhibits them (somewhat) from barking, like “go to your spot” (lying down on a mat, dog bed or blanket). You can also teach them to get a toy, which they can then carry, and gives them something to occupy their mouth. The Humane Society also has instructions for a few additional methods to help your dog stop barking excessively. Barking can be annoying, but learning what your dog is trying to communicate, and developing some tools for minimizing excessive barking, will help you keep your cool and strengthen your relationship with your dog. Trainer Review of this ArticleThere is so much misinformation out there, we want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community. We have all of our articles reviewed by qualified, positive-only trainers.
This is the trainer that reviewed this article: Shannon Finch AnimalKind Training M.Ed. Humane Education Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner Certified Tellington TTouch and TTEAM Practitioner * All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details * You may have heard the term “dog agility” recently, as it’s becoming an increasingly popular sport. But what is it, exactly? Here’s a beginners’ guide to understanding, and maybe even participating in, dog agility courses.  What is dog agility?Agility is a sport for dogs and humans to participate in together. It’s a fun and challenging obstacle course for dogs, with the dog's human or handler guiding the dog through the course.. The agility course might involve tunnels, seesaws, tires to jump through, or many different other obstacles. You can also create DIY agility courses yourself, which we’ll get into later! The benefits of agility for dogs and humansDogs receive both physical and mental stimulation from agility. Agility courses provide physical exercise as well as the mental challenge of figuring out how to maneuver under, over and around the obstacles on the course. This can be especially beneficial for high-energy dogs. Some dog owners even find that agility helps fix behavioral problems. Agility is also great for improving your dog’s off-leash skills. In addition, agility benefits the participating human. It’s a good way to get exercise, as you must run alongside your dog as they navigate the courses. In addition, it’s a great way to bond with your dog because it involves lots of training and working together. In addition to physical stimulation, agility also provides humans with mental stimulation. Your brain and body must work together quickly, as each human handler has to memorize the specific order they must have their dogs take the obstacles in, and what cues to give their dog ahead of time so the dog knows which obstacle to go to next. A brief history of agilityAgility training started in England in 1978. In 1980, the first official rules of the sport were made by the United Kingdom Kennel Club. Peter Lewis, an enthusiast of the sport, was the first to suggest that the sport should be judged, and devised a system for scoring. In 1983, Lewis formed a national agility club, which further refined the rules for judging as well as obstacles. The sport soon spread to other countries. In 1986, the United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA) was formed, and other dog agility organizations followed. The American Kennel Club held their first agility trial in 1994. How do agility trials work?A “sanctioned trial” is a dog agility competition put on by an organized dog club, which works under the “sanctioning” of organizations like the AKC or USDAA (United States Dog Agility Association). The overseeing organization determines the standards of the agility trial in addition to the kinds of obstacles used. In an agility trial, your dog will run a timed obstacle course with you guiding them. You will help guide them through which obstacle to take next. However, you may not touch them in any way. At the end, the dog will be given a score based on how many “faults” they had in their performance (e.g. hesitating or skipping an obstacle). A course in an agility trial will generally have 14-20 obstacles, which may include jumps, weave poles, tunnels and seesaws. A given organization will usually have several different types of trials available. The AKC has three types of agility trials:
Different organizations will offer different types of trials, so it’s a good idea to research them within the organization you choose. Note that some organizations are strict about purebreds, while others allow mixed breed dogs, so make sure you find an organization that will suit you and your dog! Trials vs Matches An agility trial is stricter and usually more expensive to enter than a “match” (also called a “fun match”), which is another agility activity you can do. A match is more informal and usually has looser rules and a cheaper entry fee—they are more “for fun” and less competitive than a sanctioned trial. Many people use matches simply as fun, inexpensive agility practice for their dog.  Beginner agility training: considerations and concernsBefore you start agility training, make sure to take these things into consideration: Human fitness: Agility is a workout for people as well as dogs! You will most likely be running alongside your dog as they weave and dodge through their agility course. This might not be a huge deal in a relatively small backyard, but it’s something to think about especially, if you are thinking of competing in trials (or simply participating in agility in a large space that would require lots of runnin). You might need to start a new workout routine to build up to it! Dog breed: There are no breed restrictions in agility, but it’s especially good for athletic dogs, dogs with lots of energy, and hunting breeds. However, don’t feel like your dog can’t do it if they don’t fit any of those descriptions. Just make sure your dog is up to the task, physically. It’s best to schedule an appointment with your vet before beginning agility, so you can make sure your dog doesn’t have any physical ailments or pain that would get in the way. Time: Depending on the level of depth you’re aiming for, agility can be a significant time commitment. If you decide to take a class, plan on that being at least an hour of your week. If you are learning agility “moves” in a class or online, the AKC recommends planning to spend at least 15-20 minutes a day practicing these moves with your dog. And of course, if you decide to do trials, those can take up more time! However, don’t worry about this if you are simply aiming for some fun agility-inspired backyard activities. Money: Agility might cost you money depending on what level you want to get involved at. If you want to take an agility class with your dog, expect to spend at least $150 on a class (and keep in mind that your dog needs to have a completed basic obedience class before doing agility classes, so you will have to pay for that if you haven’t completed one yet). If you later decide to enter competitions, there are fees to do so that vary by organization. DIY agility training at home is, of course, a much less expensive option.  Dog agility training for beginners: how to get startedThere are several different options for agility training—it all depends on how serious you want to get about the sport. However, if you’re a beginner, you don’t need to worry about trials and competitions just yet. For now, try out some agility exercises at home (or at a Sniffspot), and see how your dog does with them. Safety first: Before you start, make sure to have your dog examined by a vet to make sure they are in good enough shape for agility practice. In addition, if your dog is a puppy or teenager, do not have them jump over any hurdles, because their bones are not fully developed yet. Wait until a small dog is one year old, or a large dog is two years old, before having them jump over hurdles. Agility training at homeTraining exercises There are many training exercises you can do at home. Try starting with these: Recall: This is an important skill in any setting, but especially in agility. Have treats with you and call your dog’s name. When they come, reward them with a treat and then give a “release” cue (such as “free” or “ok”). You can do this randomly throughout the day as well as in more concentrated sessions. Just make sure that when your dog comes to you, it doesn’t mean an end to fun—for example, you can do this when the dog is playing in the yard, but make sure you release them to go play after you are done. You want your dog to have positive associations with coming when called. Follow Me: Do this off-leash if possible. Start with a handful of high-value treats, and begin walking around your yard (or Sniffspot), changing direction frequently. When your dog catches up to you (at any time), reward with praise and a treat. Don’t use verbal cues or call your dog’s name—the idea is that your dog follows you while simply watching your moves. Go On: This simple exercise teaches your dog to keep moving in a straight line (away from you). While you’re walking with your dog, toss a treat in front of them, and say “go on.” (You can substitute a toy for a treat if your dog is more toy-motivated.) With these and any training exercise, keep your sessions short and end while it’s still fun. You don’t want to wait until your dog gets bored to end them! If you want to explore more skills, dog trainer Cheryl May has a long list of agility training skills you can teach at home. Agility courses at home There are many fun ways to build at-home agility courses for your dog, and it’s a great way to bond with your dog. Remember to take each obstacle slowly and offer lots of praise and treats along the way. Here are a few ways you can practice agility at home:
Small dog agility Don’t worry, your small dog can participate in agility! In fact, most agility venues use the same courses for small and big dogs. The difference is that they will allow a small dog more time (as they need to take more strides than big dogs to cover the same amount of area) and do not expect the same rate of speed as they do from big dogs. To practice agility with your small dog in your yard, just be aware of their size, make sure any equipment you buy is adjustable, and adjust accordingly (e.g. lower jump bars and so forth). Affordable Agility has a beginner’s agility bag with lots of adjustable equipment, or you can buy individual pieces like this adjustable weave pole set. If you get more serious about the sport, you may have to do some specialty training with a small dog to teach them how to get through certain parts of the course quickly (again because they need to take more strides than big dogs). Otherwise, small dog agility training is the same as big dog agility training. The Teacup Dogs Agility Association is a great resource for small dog owners who want to participate in agility. They are an agility club that uses scaled-down equipment, and the distance between obstacles is shorter.  Agility classes Many dog training organizations offer agility classes. If your dog has passed basic obedience training, you may consider taking one. Active Dog Sports has a good breakdown of agility classes and how much you can expect to pay for them. Google Maps or Yelp are good places to start to find a class in your area. Online classes There are even online classes to learn agility! These classes will teach you the basics as well as how to practice in your own backyard. OneMind Dogs and The DaisyPeel are two examples of organizations that offer online agility classes, and there are many more out there. Finding agility competitions in your area If your dog takes to their agility training and you want to start looking into competitions in your area, check out Agility Events for upcoming events in your area. You can also find an AKC Agility Course Test (ACT), which is an entry-level agility event designed to test your dog’s skills and welcome you (and your dog) to the sport of agility. These events will also teach you the ins and outs of filling out entry forms, checking in at events and so forth. While they are a test for your dog, they are designed to help you and your dog learn the ins and outs of competing, so don’t think of these as a big deal or a source of stress. Beyond agility for beginnersIf you’ve moved beyond the beginner phase and are looking to take it to the next level, check out the AKC’s guide to agility and Pet Helpful’s guide to finding the right agility instructor for you and your dog. You can also use the AKC’s website to find an agility club in your area. For more fun outdoor activities to do with your dog, check out our list of free and easy outdoor dog training activities. Trainer Review of this ArticleThere is so much misinformation out there, we want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community. We have all of our articles reviewed by qualified, positive-only trainers.
This is the trainer that reviewed this article: Lindy Langum Founder - K9 Fun Club Staff Trainer - Summit Assistance Dogs Certified in Canine Studies (CSS), NW School of Canine Studies * All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details * Are you concerned that your reactive dog won’t be able to live life to the fullest? People with reactive dogs sometimes feel discouraged or that they cannot give their dog a full life, but don’t worry! In this article, we will go over how to lead a full and happy life with your reactive dog, including self-care, managing your dog’s environment, and tips for having fun with your dog. Reactivity is common, and with some creativity and problem-solving skills, you and your dog can still have a great time together! An important note: make sure to have a qualified trainer evaluate your dog before engaging in any new activities that have the potential to be harmful to your dog or anyone else (e.g. off leash play). You can definitely manage your dog’s environment and your own self-care, but it’s important to get a trainer involved when you have a reactive dog.  What is reactivity in dogs?The American Kennel Club defines reactive dogs as “[dogs] that overreact to certain things or situations.” Typically, this looks like barking, growling, or lunging. Reactive dogs have certain triggers that cause them to react. Some examples of common triggers are: other dogs, tall people, men with beards, skateboards, and so forth. Reactivity isn’t necessarily foreverFirst off, remember that your dog’s reactivity is not static and can be improved through training. To train a reactive dog, you’ll definitely want to find a trainer to help you. (You’ll want to find a trainer who also uses positive reinforcement training, and does not use any punishment or aversives.) Taking care of yourself with a reactive dogWhen you’re in the position of caregiving, it’s important to make time for self-care. This is true with dogs, too! If you have a reactive dog, you might feel stressed or overwhelmed at times, and that’s completely normal. Taking care of yourself is essential for both you and your dog. You have to take care of yourself before you can take care of your dog’s needs. That’s why self-care is an important part of providing a great life for you and your reactive dog.  Self-care ideas:
For more self-care tips, the Reddit community r/reactive dogs has a great thread on the subject. Manage your reactive dog’s environmentYou can help your dog’s reactivity by managing their environment. This means identifying your dog’s triggers and limiting access to them as much as possible. This might look like:
The situation will be different depending on your dog’s triggers, but in many cases, the trigger is avoidable (or can be lessened) at least some of the time.  Tips for having fun with your reactive dogDon’t worry, you and your reactive dog can still have a ton of fun! Reactivity is common and there are many ways to manage it while still having fun with your dog. Remember, it’s important to have your trainer evaluate your dog before engaging in any new activities, especially if they involve off leash play.
Trainer Review of this ArticleThere is so much misinformation out there, we want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community. We have all of our articles reviewed by qualified, positive-only trainers.
This is the trainer that reviewed this article: Alexandra Walker Professional Canine Trainer - Accredited / PCT Level 2 Courteous Canine/DogSmith of Tampa AKC CGC® and STAR Puppy Approved Evaluator Licensed Pet Dog Ambassador Instructor/Assessor * All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details * Are you looking for some interesting outdoor activities to do with your dog? Look no further. We’ve put together some of our favorite outdoor dog training activities, all of which can be done at a Sniffspot.  What is dog training?Dog training at its most basic means teaching a dog to do (or not do) certain things. You probably already know this, and more than likely, you’ve taken part in some kinds of dog training. Maybe you’ve taught your dog to sit or stay, or taught them not to bark at the mail carrier. There are several common types of dog training, including obedience training, behavioral training, agility training, and therapy training. You should always work with a licensed trainer for all types of “serious” training, such as behavioral training, and if you’re ever uncertain about anything behavior-related with your dog, consulting your trainer is always the best thing to do. But you can also train your dog to do activities that are purely for their own enrichment. Enrichment refers to activities that stimulate the dog’s mind. Enrichment activities usually make the dog think, solve a problem, or use their instincts in interesting ways. There are many different types of enrichment for dogs, and one fun and rewarding option is to train your dog to perform special activities or play games. Your options here are limitless, but in this article, we’ll cover some great outdoor activities for dogs that would be perfect to do at a Sniffspot. It’s important to note that if your dog seems frustrated or not willing to engage in a given activity, then that activity is not actually enriching for your dog, so you should try other options. The key is to start simple and figure out what type of enrichment is best for your individual dog! Outdoor games for dogsDog scent training games: You can train your dog to use their excellent sense of smell to find things, and have fun doing it.
 Focus games for dogs:
Outdoor games to play with your puppy: If you’re playing outside with a puppy, stick to games and training activities that keep them fairly close to you, and remember to keep the games simple. Here are some ideas for puppy training games:
 Advanced dog training exercises:
You can also make any of the exercises we’ve talked about “advanced” by stepping up the difficulty gradually. Get creative! For more fun outdoor activity ideas, check out our list of 10 unconventional ways to exercise your dog. Trainer Review of this ArticleThere is so much misinformation out there, we want to make sure we only provide the highest quality information to our community. We have all of our articles reviewed by qualified, positive-only trainers.
This is the trainer that reviewed this article: Olivia Peterson, CCS Owner - Sound Connection Dog Training WSU Bachelors in Animal Science Business Management Northwest School of Canine Studies (NWSCS) Certification |
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