Using Technology to Train

Technology is allowing us to remotely reinforce training behaviors. This is exciting news to me and for thousands of urban dogs living alone in condos. We want to reinforce the "right" behaviors as much as possible. We know Dogs are social and cooperative individuals, the reason why we live together, but unfortunately not all guardians can work from home. Canine Science tells us dogs don't do well in isolation for long periods of time, that they are not den animals, and need limited exposure to a group of dogs without structured interactions. We also know practicing too much stimulation without structure and adequate supervision can teach unwanted behavior problems. So what's a guardian living in the city to do? 

Technology is part of the answer! New products are allowing us to positively reinforce alone time, physical activity and mental engagement.  This all of course still requires your planning and being creative while always taking the animals perspective into account.  We know the best option and general rule is to provide both physical and mental stimulation in a safe environment daily.Technology now gives us the opportunity to extend our reach and train at home. 

There are a few remote training products I like and listed below with video. I use these in my behavior modification training to reinforce behaviors. These are not intended to take the place of a training plan or babysit your dog for hours on end.  Technology allows you to now call our dogs to check in talk to them and even give them a treat remotely or, we can use technology to reward a behavior.  You can now engage remotely in between social interactions and dog walks filling up that down time if needed.  This may  help with reducing any possibility of depression or learned helplessness.  

I use these when desensitizing to absences (Separation Anxiety) and counter conditioning behavior  (reduce barking).  Confinement combined with low stimulation may result in depression (or a condition called learned helplessness). Keeping pup engaged is important and having a mix of things to do is fantastic! We want to both physically and mentally stimulating those brain cells and pathways to keep growing and sticking between limbic area of the brain and the cognitive parts of the brain.  Your pup will grow up to be one who will pause to make decisions rather than be reactive.  Continue with scheduling multiple walks and asking your walker to give a prepared food/dispensing toy/stuffed kong after the walk. And consider the products below as an addition to your routine especially if you are reinforcing behaviors (or if you just want to check in to say hello). These products are even more salient when used in conjunction with a behavior mod training plan. If you have questions or you're interested in a demonstration please call me. Dog Blessings!  Vivian

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