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Take a Breath…Has anyone tried this?
I have tried using this “Take a Breath” with a couple of very reactive dogs, to some success, according to the owners. I’m attaching a video. I find that some dogs are difficult to tell when they are offering a nice calm breath, because of their nostril “poof” may be difficult to detect. Then we are trying to find proof that they close their mouth (not panting) before making and rewarding. I’ve been able to use this with owners on walks, for leash-reactive or dog-reactive dogs. They seem to get it!
Has anyone else tried this? I originally found the idea in the book, Control Unleashed, by Leslie McDevitt; but she also cites Dr. Karen Overall as a source.Protocol to Take a Breath by Dr. Karen Overall
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5 Replies
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@bernerlabreclectus thanks for sharing this behavior and video. I really like take a breath but like you pointed out, I think it can be difficult for some clients to see that nostril flare. I also think some breeds like your brachycephalic pugs, bulldogs, etc are more difficult to evaluate.
When you are capturing that deep breath, do you use a verbal marker or just deliver the treat?
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Hi @amymc , I agree…some dogs It’s is quite tough to see a nostril poof on. One thing that is pointed out in the book, I believe, is that you should wait then to either see their mouth close or stop panting. Usually that signals an inhale through the nose, if it can’t be viewed.
I usually have used a quick “Yes!”, but I don’t think it’s necessary. It can super quick to detect.
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Thanks for sharing this wonderful video.
Yes, I have read the book and tried with my own dog and have also trained with some of my clients, particularly dogs who get aroused at the sight of other dogs. It has worked to some success. And also mostly because the whole idea of taking deep breaths applies to the parent as well. I always keep reminding parents of reactive dogs to take deep breaths and make them audible to the dog. HaHa. And I myself do it.
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Hi @rads ! I love hearing that you use this, too! Yes, I try to get reactive dogs to use. And their parents!!! Sometimes, that is where most of the tension dogs feel seems to start, I think, by tension in the pet parent. Breathing helps us all!!!
I also love what the author, Leslie McDevitt, says about a reactive dog becomes a quiet dog, when they are actively breathing through their nose. It seems to work! It takes lots of practice, but yoga is so good for us, it’s like DOG-ahhh!
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A million times YES @RADS and @Bernerlabreclectus – taking that deep breath can be a real game-changer in helping us (two-legged and four-pawed alike) become calmer!
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