Changing dogs behaviour on walks, without training
Written By: Max Randall
Founder of MK9Plus
Qualified Dog trainer
It's All About Your Dog's Window! This window is what ruins recall, creates obsession, and leads to hyperactivity in your dog.
Orange Text = Link To Lessons
By "window," I mean their window of opportunity! Two hours a day is the most common duration I see people taking their dogs out for, and that's amazing, so keep it up. However, one thing you have to keep in mind is, if you aren't providing your dog with breed specific outlets or mental stimulation at home (the life the dog thrives in), you're training your dog to empty the tank within those two hours every day, because that's their window of opportunity to live their life.
Basically, a day plan where the majority of their quality comes from their 2 hour window, is training them to go 110% outside.
Side Note:
We also have to consider the nature of these walks. If we have a dog that isn't bred for exploring and hunting, like our sight hounds, scent hounds, or terriers, relying solely on walks for stimulation isn't the best use of your valuable time. Many dogs are bred for specific tasks, and it's perfectly fine to fill most of their outdoor time with those tasks. Remember, that time is for them, and this will help them make the most of it! Who cares about exploring if you aren't bred for it? To learn how to identify your dog's predatory needs and how to teach them their job, if they need one, there is plenty of material for you on MK9Plus.com
This is why obsession, hyperactivity, or unreliable recall can still be seen in dogs that sleep the recommended 18 to 20 hours a day. If they are getting everything they need in life, but only within that two-hour window, you're training them to meet their needs ASAP! Understanding the difference between stimulation and outlets is crucial, as you don't want to waste your time with pointless activities at home. Make the most of your time and dive deep into the world of outlets to alleviate your dog's frustration.
The importance of learning goes beyond just meeting your dog's needs.
Learning also includes understanding the best and worst times for enrichment. Why? It's because everything increases arousal, including both highly beneficial activities and those that can cause more problems. Some days, engaging in these life-changing activities won't help at all.
That's why MK9Plus does more than just offer tips—we aim to create competent dog parents and ensure dogs are in responsible hands! No more aimless enrichment just because someone said it would be good to do.