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A Black and Chocolate Labrador puppies raiding a spilled bag of dog food - 5 weeks old

<h3>&nbsp;Let’s bust one of the biggest training myths out there.</h3><p>If I had a treat for every time someone told me their dog<em> “just isn’t food motivated,</em>” I’d never have to buy hot dogs again.</p><p>Here’s the truth: <strong>All dogs are food motivated.</strong></p><p>They might not act like it right now, but trust me — food is wired into your dog’s brain from day one. Literally.</p><p>Puppies are born blind, deaf, and completely helpless — and yet, what’s the first thing they do? Root around for food. That drive never disappears… it just sometimes gets dulled or redirected. And that’s where we come in.</p><h3>So why does your dog turn their nose up at treats during training?</h3><p>If your dog doesn’t go bananas for snacks during training, it’s not because they don’t like food. It’s usually about howfood has been used (or not used) in their past experiences.</p><p><strong>Here’s what might be going on:</strong></p><h3>&nbsp;1. The Reward Doesn’t Feel Earned</h3><p>If food just appears with no clear reason — like tossing treats around “<em>just because”</em> — your dog might not connect it to their own behavior. They don’t understand why they’re getting it, so it doesn’t hold value.</p><h3>2. Food’s Been Used as a Bribe</h3><p>If you’ve ever waved a treat around saying “<em>Sit, come on, sit… SIT!” </em>— you’re not alone. We’ve all been there. But this turns food into a distraction, not a reward. Your dog focuses on the food, not the learning.</p><h3>3. Training Moved Too Fast</h3><p>If your dog doesn’t understand what’s being asked, even the best snack in the world won’t make it click. Confused dogs shut down — especially if they’re sensitive or easily overwhelmed.</p><h3>4. Food’s Just… Boring</h3><p>If your dog gets the same kibble every day, from the same bowl, with no effort required — food loses its magic. <strong>Why work for something they can get for free?</strong></p><p>Here’s the good news: <strong>Food motivation is not a fixed trait. It’s a skill. </strong>And just like recall, leash walking, or focus — it can be built.</p><figure id="figure-g6put7sv59m8pwk5kh"><img id="g6put7sv59m8pwk5kh" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1469571428/photo/womans-hands-giving-some-treats-to-her-dog.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=QmjYp9_XzxjnmiUZVbHyNZAwm257-DdSz3J8VYNN6VE=" alt="Woman's hands giving some treats to her dog" title="Woman's hands giving some treats to her dog" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 65%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="65%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1469571428/photo/womans-hands-giving-some-treats-to-her-dog.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=QmjYp9_XzxjnmiUZVbHyNZAwm257-DdSz3J8VYNN6VE=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 65%;"></figure><h3>How We Turn “Meh” into “Motivated”</h3><p>In our program, we show you how to:</p><ul style="list-style-type: square;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: square;"><li>Use food the right way (no bribing or begging)</li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);">Build excitement around mealtimes and training sessions</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);">Create structure and consistency so your dog wants to engage</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);">Use food to teach, not just to treat</span></li></ul><p>And the best part? This isn’t about spoiling your dog. It’s about building communication, clarity, and cooperation. You’re rewarding effort. And that matters.</p><h3><em>“But Cher… my dog is different.”</em></h3><p>Okay. But let me ask you this: <strong>Does your dog eat meals?</strong></p><p>Then yes — they care about food. They just haven’t learned how it fits into training yet. Once they do? You’ll be amazed at how quickly they light up when you reach for a treat pouch.</p><h3>Food Isn’t a Bribe — It’s Information</h3><p>We don’t use food to beg our dogs to behave. We use it to mark and reward the behaviors we want more of. It’s one of the fastest ways to show your dog, “<em>Yes, that! Do that again.”</em></p><p>And don’t worry — food doesn’t stay forever. Once behaviors are strong and reliable, we fade food out and bring in other rewards. But building the foundation? That starts with value.</p><h3>Want to Learn How to Build Food Motivation?</h3><p>Check out my<a data-mce-href="https://streetwisecanine.etsy.com/listing/1819149768" href="https://streetwisecanine.etsy.com/listing/1819149768"> Building Food Motivation PDF on Etsy</a> — perfect if you want simple, step-by-step strategies.</p><p>Or dive deeper in our online course, <a data-mce-href="https://trainingdogsonline.ca" href="https://trainingdogsonline.ca">Training Dogs Online,</a> where we walk you through how to turn even the pickiest eaters into motivated learners.</p><p><strong>You can have a food-motivated dog.</strong> You just need the right approach — and a little support.</p><figure id="figure-j0nfppo4ajm974f1l9"><img id="j0nfppo4ajm974f1l9" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/33XmdsG9Zk2T2cNdYcVNDTUzALPd3sSe3VNUkPXxH6lFOjxOt2DOwtbMwI6aq9ip.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/></figure>

My Dog Just Isn’t Food Motivated” — Or Are They?

Close-up of Schnauzer Breeders sticking out tongue

<p>You’ve probably seen your dog go to town on a frozen Kong, peanut butter smear, or lick mat and thought, “Well, at least they’re busy.” But what if I told you that licking isn’t just a way to keep them occupied — it’s one of the most effective calm-down strategies we can offer?</p><p>Many dogs naturally turn to licking when they’re overwhelmed. It’s not a quirk — it’s a built-in coping strategy. And when we use it thoughtfully, licking can become one of the simplest and most effective ways to help dogs regulate their emotions.</p><h3>Why Licking Works to Calm Dogs</h3><p>Licking isn’t just something dogs do — it’s something they’re wired for. From the time they’re tiny puppies, licking is one of the first ways they find comfort and connection. It’s how they bond with their mom, explore the world, and feel safe.</p><p>As they grow, that same action sticks with them as a natural way to settle their emotions. Think of it like a built-in stress relief switch.</p><p>When a dog licks, their body starts to shift gears — breathing slows, muscles relax, and their brain begins to release feel-good chemicals that help them settle down. It moves them out of “go-go-go” mode and into something softer, calmer, and more focused.</p><p><strong>You’ll often see dogs lick:</strong></p><p>• When they’re feeling unsure or overwhelmed</p><p>• After something exciting or overstimulating</p><p>• As a way to come back down from a stressful situation</p><p>It’s not a bad habit or a weird quirk — it’s a tool their body uses to find balance.</p><p>And when we give them healthy ways to practice it, it becomes a really powerful part of emotional recovery and regulation.</p><figure id="figure-i3cenat81ym8n65qdm"><img id="i3cenat81ym8n65qdm" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1705546358/photo/close-up-of-a-beagle-licking-its-paw-focusing-on-the-mouth-and-tongue.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=QVxIHcmr5GczvZzCXK8_zvRlaQPVZ5F95n_iyqMQMBY=" alt="Close-up of a Beagle licking its paw, focusing on the mouth and tongue." title="Close-up of a Beagle licking its paw, focusing on the mouth and tongue." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1705546358/photo/close-up-of-a-beagle-licking-its-paw-focusing-on-the-mouth-and-tongue.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=QVxIHcmr5GczvZzCXK8_zvRlaQPVZ5F95n_iyqMQMBY=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>But Not All Dogs Start There</h3><p>Some dogs don’t immediately find licking relaxing — especially if they’re already worked up or don’t have a strong food drive yet. That’s totally normal.</p><p>In those cases, licking needs to be introduced while the dog is already feeling calm and safe. It becomes something they associate with quiet time and comfort — but that connection sometimes needs to be built first.</p><p>Like any skill, the calming benefits of licking often need to be conditioned over time. With consistency and the right timing, most dogs begin to settle into it and start using it as a tool to regulate their own energy.</p><h3>How We Use Licking as a Recovery Tool</h3><p>In training sessions — it’s easy for dogs to get overstimulated. Even fun stuff like games, social time, or new skills can push them close to their threshold. That’s where licking comes in.</p><p>We use it during what we call “calm or recovery periods” — short breaks where dogs can reset. Offering a licky roller between activities helps them come down from excitement and stay emotionally balanced for whatever comes next.</p><blockquote><p>It’s not a bribe. It’s a tool for teaching nervous systems how to chill.</p></blockquote><figure id="figure-w03p22ygigm8n67hq2"><img id="w03p22ygigm8n67hq2" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/148465706/photo/feeding-a-golden-retriever-peanut-butter.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=hx88N5NjBh8_SnxqeQYQaVHhkuq3bMtWZUX9wqlCR2c=" alt="Feeding a Golden Retriever Peanut Butter" title="Feeding a Golden Retriever Peanut Butter" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/148465706/photo/feeding-a-golden-retriever-peanut-butter.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=hx88N5NjBh8_SnxqeQYQaVHhkuq3bMtWZUX9wqlCR2c=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>When to Offer Licking as Recovery at Home</h3><p>You don’t need to be in class to use licking as a recovery tool. Try it when your dog is:</p><p>• Coming down after a walk or a play session</p><p>• Feeling anxious from guests, noises, or grooming</p><p>• Struggling to focus during training</p><p>• Winding down before bedtime</p><p>You can also use licking preventatively — <strong>before your dog gets overstimulated, not just after.</strong> Offering a lick mat during dinner parties, thunderstorms, or after a training breakthrough helps teach them how to self-regulate.&nbsp;</p><h3>Want to Try It?</h3><p>Start simple:</p><p>• Spread wet food or peanut butter on a silicone lick mat and freeze it</p><p>• Roll a bit of canned food onto a textured toy (or use a licky roller)</p><p>• Time it right — offer during quiet moments or just before your dog starts to escalate</p><p>Licking isn’t just enrichment. It’s nervous system support. And for a lot of dogs, that makes all the difference.</p><h3>The Bottom Line</h3><p>Licking isn’t just about treats. It’s about giving your dog a healthy, natural way to feel calm and safe — especially in a world that can feel loud or confusing sometimes.</p><p>If your dog struggles to settle, gets overwhelmed easily, or just needs a little help calming down, licking might be the tool you didn’t know you were missing.</p><p><em><br data-mce-bogus="1"></em></p><p><em>Whether your dog’s a little spicy or just unsure, there’s always a way forward — and it doesn’t have to be stressful. Let me know if you want help figuring out what works best for your dog.</em></p><p><br><em>– Cher</em></p><p><em>Street Wise Canine</em></p>

Licking Isn’t Just Cute — It’s a Calming Exercise for Dogs

<p>You know that moment when you so much as breathe near the cheese drawer, and your dog comes running like you just announced free steak for life? That, my friend, is a conditioned response in action.</p><p>Conditioned responses are what make dogs brilliant learners—and also what make them stare deep into your soul every time you so much as crinkle a food wrapper. But what exactly is a conditioned response, and why does it matter for dog training?</p><p>Let’s break it down—without too much science.</p><h3>What Is a Conditioned Response? (And Why It’s Why Your Dog Knows “Fridge” But Not “Sit”)</h3><p>A conditioned response happens when your dog learns to associate one thing with another—whether you meant to teach them or not. It’s a learned behavior, unlike an instinctual response (like tail wagging or chasing squirrels like they owe your dog money).</p><p><strong>Example #1</strong>: You put on your sneakers → your dog loses their mind because sneakers = walk.</p><p><strong>Example #2</strong>: The doorbell rings → your dog barks as if an intruder has entered your home to steal all your throw pillows.</p><p><strong>Example #3</strong>: You open a treat jar → your dog materializes out of nowhere, sitting at Olympic-level speed.</p><p>These responses don’t happen just because. They happen because of classical conditioning, a psychological concept pioneered by Ivan Pavlov—you know, the guy with the dogs who drooled at the sound of a bell? Turns out, he was onto something.</p><figure id="figure-jxej87olsqm8iqy3g9"><img id="jxej87olsqm8iqy3g9" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/645261100/photo/pregnant-women-and-a-dog.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=kQSSFyj8FbyHLlrcw74TVMObMWhLoarhTz7f6bybTzg=" alt="Pregnant women and a dog" title="Pregnant women and a dog" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/645261100/photo/pregnant-women-and-a-dog.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=kQSSFyj8FbyHLlrcw74TVMObMWhLoarhTz7f6bybTzg=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Pavlov’s Dogs: The OG of Conditioned Responses</h3><p>In the late 1800s, Pavlov discovered that if he rang a bell every time he fed his dogs, they eventually started drooling justat the sound of the bell—even when food wasn’t present.</p><p>The dogs had learned the pattern: Bell = Food → Drool.</p><ul><li>The bell was originally just a neutral sound (meaningless to the dog)</li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);">The food naturally made the dogs drool (an unconditioned response).</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);">Over time, the bell became paired with the food, so the dogs started drooling at the bell alone.</span></li></ul><p><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);">And just like that, conditioned responses were born.</span></p><p>Now, let’s bring this into your actual life.</p><h3>Conditioned Responses in Dog Training: Your Dog Is Always Learning</h3><p>Whether you realize it or not, your dog is picking up conditioned responses all the time. Some are intentional (like training cues), and some are… well, less ideal (like when your dog starts barking at 5 p.m. on the dot because that’s when dinner usually happens).</p><p><strong>Intentional Conditioned Responses (The Ones You Want!)</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Marker Words &amp; Clickers</strong> – Saying “Yes!” or clicking a clicker before giving a food reward teaches your dog that the sound predicts something good. This builds faster learning.</li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);"><strong>The Attention Sound</strong> – Teaching your dog to stop, look, and listen when they hear a specific sound helps with reactivity, engagement, and focus.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);"><strong>Loose Leash Walking</strong> – If every time your dog walks nicely, they get a food reward, they begin associating a loose leash with good things happening.</span></li></ul><p><strong><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);">Accidental Conditioned Responses (Oops.)</span></strong></p><ul><li><strong>Jumping at the Sound of a Leash Clip</strong> – If you only clip the leash on right before walks, your dog will learn that sound = EXCITEMENT, making it harder to get out the door calmly.</li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);"><strong>Running Away When You Say ‘<em>Come’ </em></strong>– If <em>‘come</em>’ only happens when fun is about to end (like leaving the park), your dog may learn that <em>“Come”</em> = No More Fun → Run the Other Way.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);"><strong>Overreacting to the Doorbell</strong> – If every time the doorbell rings, excitement or chaos follows (people arriving, yelling, dogs getting shooed away), the doorbell itself becomes a trigger.</span></li></ul><h3>How to Use Conditioned Responses to Your Advantage</h3><p>Conditioned responses aren’t just about recognizing what your dog is already doing—they’re about using it to shape better behavior.</p><ol><li><strong>Be Intentional</strong> – If your dog is always making connections between things, make sure you’re creating the ones you want. Reward the behaviors you want to see more of.</li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);"><strong>Reinforce What Matters</strong> – If you want your dog to focus on you more, start rewarding voluntary check-ins throughout the day. If you want calmer door greetings, practice reinforcing sitting when people arrive.</span></li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);"><strong>Break the Unwanted Patterns</strong> – If your dog loses their mind when you grab the leash, pick it up at random times without actually going for a walk. If they ignore “<em>Come</em>,” start using it for good things (like meals, play, and treats), not just <em>“fun is over”</em> moments.</span></li></ol><figure id="figure-vct2bsbe2km8iqz835"><img id="vct2bsbe2km8iqz835" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2101445453/photo/female-dog-steals-cheese-from-the-table.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=rUI3tR9R7ZCgGjoWiUgjDy7CvASVp-ksC0iudZUd73w=" alt="female dog steals cheese from the table" title="female dog steals cheese from the table" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2101445453/photo/female-dog-steals-cheese-from-the-table.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=rUI3tR9R7ZCgGjoWiUgjDy7CvASVp-ksC0iudZUd73w=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Final Thoughts: Train the Dog in Front of You</h3><p>Dogs aren’t born knowing what we want from them—they learn through association. <strong>Every single day, your dog is picking up on patterns, cues, and signals </strong>from the world around them (and from you!).</p><p>Whether it’s conditioning them to pay attention to a marker word, teaching them that the leash doesn’t always mean go time, or (finally) breaking the 5 p.m. dinnertime protest barks, understanding conditioned responses makes you a bettertrainer.</p><p>So, what’s the next conditioned response you want to teach? And if your dog already has a PhD in cheese drawer detection… well, at least you know how it happened.</p><h3>Want to learn more about using conditioned responses in training?</h3><p>Join one of our group classes in Delhi, Ontario!</p><p>From building food motivation to teaching focus &amp; engagement, we help dogs learn in a way that makes sense for them.</p><p><a data-mce-href="https://streetsmartcanine.com/dog-training-classes-in-norfolk-county" href="https://streetsmartcanine.com/dog-training-classes-in-norfolk-county">Sign up now!</a></p><p>Cher Wood</p><p><em>Street Wise Canine</em></p><p><br></p>

Conditioned Response in Dogs: Why Your Dog Knows the Sound of Cheese Before Its Name

<h2>Born to Adapt, One Sense at a Time</h2><p>Imagine being born into this world, but you can’t see, you can’t hear, and your only skill is wiggling toward something warm and hoping it’s your mom, not a random sock. Welcome to the life of a newborn puppy.</p><p>Unlike humans, who come into the world screaming like they just got evicted from the best Airbnb ever, puppies enter life in total silence and darkness. No sights, no sounds—just touch and scent guiding their way. It’s like nature said, “Alright, let’s take it easy on these little guys. We’ll ease them into reality.”</p><p>And that? <strong>That is desensitization in its purest form.</strong></p><p>Puppies aren’t just capable of adapting to the world over time—they are biologically programmed to do it in a slow, controlled way. Nature, in all its wisdom, decided that instead of hitting puppies with the full sensory experience at birth, they’d get onboarded gradually—kind of like an automatic software update, but way less glitchy.</p><p>This slow sensory rollout isn’t a mistake—<strong>it’s a survival strategy.</strong></p><p><img id="af1qbqycxm8h8jdsn" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1901584714/photo/running-playful-puppies-white-yellow-labrador-back-yard-grass.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=7xv0gyvisMBUwwaSWkUfVeN5lGoh0AweTZwPcAm2Q2U=" alt="Running Playful Puppies - White Yellow Labrador - Back Yard Grass" title="Running Playful Puppies - White Yellow Labrador - Back Yard Grass" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1901584714/photo/running-playful-puppies-white-yellow-labrador-back-yard-grass.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=7xv0gyvisMBUwwaSWkUfVeN5lGoh0AweTZwPcAm2Q2U=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></p><h2>Why Puppies Start Life in Darkness and Silence</h2><p><br>If puppies were born with fully developed vision and hearing, the world would be too much, too soon. Imagine a brand-new puppy seeing bright lights, hearing loud noises, and trying to process it all at once—<strong>sensory overload city.</strong></p><p>Instead, nature does something genius: <strong>it makes sure their senses come online one at a time, allowing them to process the world in small, manageable doses.</strong></p><p>Here’s how that timeline plays out:</p><ul><li><strong>Weeks 0-2:</strong> No sight, no hearing. Just warmth, scent, and touch. This prevents puppies from panicking at unfamiliar sights or sounds before they even have the brainpower to process them.</li><li><strong>Weeks 2-3:</strong> The eyes begin to open—but vision is still blurry, like looking through a foggy windshield. This ensures they aren’t overwhelmed by movement and shapes all at once.</li><li><strong>Weeks 3-4:</strong> The ears start working, but everything is muffled and distant—kind of like when you’re half-asleep, and someone tries talking to you. This gradual sound introduction prevents shock responses to loud noises.</li><li><strong>Weeks 4-8:</strong> The world sharpens into focus. By now, the puppy has had weeks of safe, controlled exposure to their environment, allowing them to adjust without fear.</li></ul><blockquote><p><br>This slow-release sensory experience is nature’s built-in desensitization process.&nbsp;</p></blockquote><figure id="figure-d7uyg4ys0em8h8m7r2"><img id="d7uyg4ys0em8h8m7r2" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/353upPZVtjCa3zkBQ0b2jNATary2bdShLJfmfPjKCFdRHKsmskbzqCmQ8Zz06Dhf.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/353upPZVtjCa3zkBQ0b2jNATary2bdShLJfmfPjKCFdRHKsmskbzqCmQ8Zz06Dhf.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>The Evolutionary Reason Behind It</h2><p>Let’s rewind thousands of years to when dogs were still wild animals. Their ancestors, wolves, relied on slow sensory development to keep their young safe from danger.</p><p>A wolf pup born with full sight and hearing would be endlessly startled by movement and noise—wasting energy on panic rather than learning. By delaying sensory development, nature ensured they began processing their environment <strong>only when their brains were ready, and in a slow, gradual way</strong>. This step-by-step introduction prevented sensory overload, allowing them to adapt at a natural, manageable pace—exactly as nature intended.</p><p>This evolutionary strategy still exists in our modern dogs. Puppies aren’t supposed to face the world all at once—they’re designed to learn gradually, absorb information in small doses, and adapt at their own pace.</p><p><strong>And yet, as humans, we often ignore this process entirely.</strong></p><h2>Why Desensitization Matters for ALL Dogs</h2><p>If gradual exposure is how puppies are designed to learn, why do we expect adult dogs to instantly adjust to things?</p><p>This is where so many training mistakes happen. People assume that because a dog is grown, they should be able to “just deal with it.” But whether it’s a puppy or a full-grown dog, their nervous system still functions the same way.</p><p>Desensitization isn’t just for puppies; it’s a core principle of how dogs adapt to their environment throughout their entire lives. It determines whether they see the world as safe and predictable or chaotic and terrifying.</p><p>Dogs who aren’t properly desensitized become reactive, fearful, or aggressive because their brain never got a chance to learn what’s normal.</p><h2>The Danger of Skipping Steps</h2><p>When puppies (or adult dogs) miss out on gradual exposure, their nervous system basically throws its hands up and says, “Nope, I don’t trust this.” That’s when you get:</p><p><strong>Overreaction to normal things</strong> (barking at every single garbage can like it’s out for blood).</p><p><strong>Fear-based behaviors</strong> (hiding from ceiling fans like they’re UFOs).</p><p><strong>Aggression or anxiety</strong> (because their brain perceives new things as threats).</p><p>A dog who hasn’t been properly desensitized is like someone who’s never parallel parked before and suddenly has to do it in front of a long line of impatient drivers. They might get the car into the spot, but I guarantee next time they see a tight parking space, their heart rate is gonna spike, and they’ll circle the block 10 more times just to avoid it.</p><h2>Why This Matters for Training</h2><p>Here’s where things go wrong: we get impatient. We want our dogs to just get over things instead of giving them the time to process like nature intended.</p><p>Imagine living in a quiet, isolated cabin for years—then suddenly being dropped into the middle of a busy city. You’d panic, right? That’s exactly what happens when we overload our dogs with too much, too soon.<br>Example: Your dog is scared of the vacuum.</p><ul><li>If you suddenly turn it on right next to them, their nervous system goes into survival mode.</li><li>But if you introduce the vacuum gradually—letting them sniff it first, then turning it on at a distance, and slowly working closer over time—they learn that it’s just another part of their environment.</li></ul><p>Dogs are <strong>wired to learn this way</strong>. They aren’t stubborn. They aren’t dramatic. They’re running on an evolutionary timeline that we need to respect.</p><h2>The Takeaway: Train the Way Nature Intended</h2><p>Desensitization isn’t a fancy training method—it’s a fundamental part of how dogs are designed to learn. If we respect that, training becomes way easier (and way less dramatic).</p><ul><li>Introduce new things gradually.</li><li>Make experiences positive, not overwhelming.</li><li>Let their brain process change at its own pace.<br></li><li>At the end of the day, dogs aren’t stubborn—they’re just running on evolution’s timeline. If you work with their DNA instead of against it, you’ll have a confident, well-adjusted dog instead of one who thinks the mailman is a home invasion.</li></ul><p>If you want to learn what desensitization is all about, check out our blog "Desensitization in Dog Training: The Art of Not Losing Their Mind". </p><h3>Want More Guidance? Check Out Our Training Resources</h3><p>Grab a copy of my<a data-mce-href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/1819149768/editable-dog-training-guide-customizable?etsrc=sdt" href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/1819149768/editable-dog-training-guide-customizable?etsrc=sdt"> Building Food Motivation PDF</a> on Etsy to start building your dog’s engagement and focus.</p><p>Dive into my <a data-mce-href="https://trainingdogsonline.mykajabi.com/offers/hZqAB4c7/checkout" href="https://trainingdogsonline.mykajabi.com/offers/hZqAB4c7/checkout">Online Course at Training Dogs Online,</a> where we walk you step by step through proven training strategies for real-life success.</p><p>-Cher Wood</p><p><br></p>

Why Desensitization Is Built Into Your Dog’s DNA

two young women sitting on a park bench while playing with their dogs by throwing a ball at them

<h2>Dog Enrichment: A Biological Need, Not a Conditioned Response</h2><p><br>Think about your favorite hobby. Maybe you love painting, hiking, playing music, or binge-watching true crime documentaries while convincing yourself you could totally solve a case. Did someone have to train you to enjoy those things? Probably not. You were drawn to them naturally.</p><p>Dogs are the same way.</p><p>Dog enrichment—activities that mentally, physically, and emotionally engage your dog—is not something you train them to enjoy. It’s biologically wired into them. Just like people don’t choose what hobbies make them happy, dogs don’t decide what type of enrichment fulfills them. They just know what they need.</p><p>Yet, so many people approach enrichment as if they get to pick what their dog finds enjoyable. But here’s the truth: you don’t choose your dog’s enrichment needs—nature already did.</p><h2>Why Dog Enrichment Is Rooted in Instinct, Not Obedience</h2><p><br>Somewhere along the way, dog owners started treating enrichment like an extension of obedience training, thinking they could simply decide what their dog enjoys. But dog enrichment isn’t a learned behavior—it’s an instinctive, biological drive.</p><ul><li>A Border Collie doesn’t learn to enjoy herding—it’s ingrained in them.</li><li>A Labrador Retriever doesn’t choose to love fetching—it’s in their DNA.</li><li>A Beagle doesn’t bark and sniff because they were trained to—it’s how they’re wired.</li></ul><p>The same way you don’t have to be trained to find certain activities fulfilling, dogs don’t need to be convinced to enjoy the things that come naturally to them.</p><blockquote><h3>Enrichment is about allowing your dog to engage in activities that align with their instincts.</h3></blockquote><figure id="figure-7w25nfqbom8h8cf7i"><img id="7w25nfqbom8h8cf7i" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1264391378/photo/old-jack-russel-terrier-with-his-ball.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1ESs5sTZ4ZIw1xSkVngjeBlavxOw21oKu3K5A6eNBSI=" alt="Old Jack Russel Terrier With His Ball" title="Old Jack Russel Terrier With His Ball" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1264391378/photo/old-jack-russel-terrier-with-his-ball.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=1ESs5sTZ4ZIw1xSkVngjeBlavxOw21oKu3K5A6eNBSI=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>Understanding Different Types of Dog Enrichment</h2><p>Every dog has different biological needs, just like every person has different interests. Imagine forcing a bookworm to take up extreme sports or an adrenaline junkie to spend their free time knitting. That’s what it’s like when we try to dictate what kind of enrichment a dog should enjoy rather than letting them show us what they need.</p><ul><li>Mental Stimulation for Dogs – Some dogs are problem-solvers and thrive on puzzle toys, scent work, and interactive games.</li><li>Foraging and Sniffing Games – Many dogs are natural foragers and love searching, sniffing, and digging to stay engaged.</li><li>High-Energy Activities for Active Dogs – Some breeds need to chase, run, and catch to fulfill their drive. Fetch, flirt poles, and agility work wonders.</li><li>Chewing and Shredding for Stress Relief – Some dogs find chewing and shredding therapeutic—it’s not destruction; it’s a mental release.</li></ul><p>The key to effective dog enrichment is observing what they naturally gravitate toward and providing healthy ways for them to express those instincts.</p><h2>What Happens When Dogs Don’t Get Proper Enrichment?</h2><p><br>Here’s where things go wrong: when a dog’s natural enrichment needs aren’t met, they find their own ways to meet them. And usually? That doesn’t go over well with their human.</p><ul><li>A dog that isn’t given proper chewing outlets will find your furniture irresistible.</li><li>A high-energy dog without enough physical stimulation will turn your home into a racetrack.</li><li>A scent-driven dog without sniffing opportunities will turn every walk into a tug-of-war battle.<br></li><li>If you don’t provide enrichment that aligns with your dog’s instincts, they will create their own. And their version of fun is probably not going to match yours.</li></ul><h2>How to Provide the Best Dog Enrichment Activities</h2><p>Since dog enrichment isn’t something you train your dog to enjoy, your role isn’t to choose their enrichment—it’s to discover and support it. Here’s how:</p><ol><li><strong>Observe your dog.</strong> What do they naturally love doing? What activities make them light up?</li><li><strong>Provide safe outlets.</strong> If your dog loves digging, give them a sandbox. If they love chasing, incorporate games that let them fulfill that instinct.</li><li><strong>Rotate activities.</strong> Dog enrichment isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. Mix up activities to keep things fresh and engaging.</li><li><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);" data-mce-style="font-family: inherit; font-size: calc(16px * var(--body-fontSize, 1)); font-style: var(--body-fontStyle, normal);"><strong>Respect their preferences.</strong> Just because a dog “should” enjoy a certain type of enrichment doesn’t mean they will. Let them lead the way.</span></li></ol><h2>The Importance of Enrichment for a Well-Balanced Dog</h2><p>Dog enrichment isn’t about training—it’s about fulfilling their natural instincts. When we stop treating enrichment like a choice and start seeing it as a biological necessity, we create happier, healthier, and more balanced dogs.</p><p>Because at the end of the day, dogs don’t need to be taught what makes them happy. They just need the opportunity to do it.</p><h2>Want More Guidance? Check Out Our Training Resources</h2><p>Grab a copy of my <a data-mce-href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/1819149768/editable-dog-training-guide-customizable?etsrc=sdt" href="https://www.etsy.com/ca/listing/1819149768/editable-dog-training-guide-customizable?etsrc=sdt">Building Food Motivation</a> PDF on Etsy to start building your dog’s engagement and focus.</p><p>Dive into our Online Course at<a data-mce-href="https://trainingdogsonline.mykajabi.com/offers/hZqAB4c7/checkout" href="https://trainingdogsonline.mykajabi.com/offers/hZqAB4c7/checkout"> Training Dogs Online</a>, where we walk you step by step through proven training strategies for real-life success.</p><p>Learn more about me, my philosophy, and why I am passionate about helping dogs and their owners thrive.</p><p>-Cher Wood</p>

Dog Enrichment: Why It’s a Natural Instinct, Not a Training Exercise

<h2>Understanding the Basics of Dog Training</h2>
<p>Training a dog can be a rewarding experience, but it's important to approach it with the right knowledge to avoid common pitfalls. Many dog owners make mistakes that can hinder their pet's learning process. By understanding these mistakes, you can ensure a smoother and more effective training journey.</p>

<h3>1. Inconsistency in Training</h3>
<p>One of the most frequent mistakes is being inconsistent with commands and rules. Dogs thrive on routine and consistency. If one day you allow your dog on the sofa but scold them the next, it creates confusion. To avoid this, <b>establish clear rules</b> and stick to them consistently. Ensure that everyone in the household follows the same guidelines to reinforce learning.</p>

<figure id="figure-wivpicbjugm7gywnlj"><img id="wivpicbjugm7gywnlj" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/678934304/photo/starting-his-first-dog-obedience-class.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=S6U_rCj0vYL_P5VV7PjdbYtnySg5dRS-lythbcxjISo=" alt="dog training" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h3>2. Neglecting to Use Positive Reinforcement</h3>
<p>Some owners overlook the power of positive reinforcement, opting instead for punishment-based methods. This approach can lead to fear and anxiety in dogs. Instead, reward your pet with treats, praise, or playtime when they exhibit desired behaviors. <strong>Positive reinforcement</strong> strengthens the bond between you and your dog and encourages them to repeat good behaviors.</p>

<h3>3. Lack of Patience</h3>
<p>Patience is crucial in dog training. Expecting instant results can lead to frustration for both you and your pet. Every dog learns at their own pace, and some may take longer to grasp certain commands. Remain patient and persistent, and celebrate small victories along the way. Remember, training is a marathon, not a sprint.</p>

<figure id="figure-qwk2c51umrm7gywnlj"><img id="qwk2c51umrm7gywnlj" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/2149058683/photo/home-oven-and-dog-waiting-for-food-with-light-cooking-and-dinner-for-cute-animal-in-kitchen.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=RXtjJHaO7Uy_IzbjmgCyWQeFXWmXtcmsy6FsLGF1QwY=" alt="dog patience" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<h2>Effective Communication with Your Dog</h2>
<h3>4. Overloading Your Dog with Commands</h3>
<p>Bombarding your dog with too many commands at once can overwhelm them. It’s essential to focus on one command at a time until it’s mastered before moving on to the next. Use simple language and clear signals to avoid confusion. Repetition is key, but ensure it's not excessive to maintain your dog's interest.</p>

<h3>5. Ignoring Body Language</h3>
<p>Dogs communicate a lot through body language, and ignoring these signals can be detrimental to training. Pay attention to signs of stress, discomfort, or excitement in your dog. Understanding their body language helps you tailor the training approach to their needs and ensures a positive experience for both you and your pet.</p>

<figure id="figure-gem1pmbrfvm7gywnlj"><img id="gem1pmbrfvm7gywnlj" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/667015948/photo/dog-portrait.jpg?b=1&s=2048x2048&w=0&k=20&c=xkDGmCovo-7CGoxALE6UWmeNidoOrVN-wvasG676R3I=" alt="dog body language" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9"></figure>

<p>By avoiding these common mistakes, you set the stage for a successful training experience. Remember that every dog is unique and what works for one might not work for another. Stay patient, observant, and consistent in your training efforts, and you'll see progress over time.</p>

<p>Incorporating these tips into your training regimen will not only enhance your pet's learning but also strengthen the bond you share with your furry friend. Happy training!</p>

5 Common Dog Training Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Street Wise Canine

What Are Decompression Classes?
This Isn't Training Your Dog - It's Training You
Our decompression classes are designed to teach handlers how to let their dogs lead the way. In a world where we're constantly directing our dogs, these classes create space for dogs to make choices, process their environment, and communicate what they need.
You'll learn:

How to read your dog's natural rhythm and communication
The art of following instead of leading
How your energy affects your dog's experience
When to intervene and when to trust the process

Blog

My Dog Just Isn’t Food Motivated” — Or Are They?

Licking Isn’t Just Cute — It’s a Calming Exercise for Dogs

Conditioned Response in Dogs: Why Your Dog Knows the Soun...

Why Desensitization Is Built Into Your Dog’s DNA

Dog Enrichment: Why It’s a Natural Instinct, Not a Traini...

5 Common Dog Training Mistakes and How to Avoid Them