*Note that most of the topics listed here will be addressed several times during the course in different ways. This will both help you internalize what you learn and deepen your understanding of each of the topics.
Theory (the geeky stuff), including
- Confidence
- Relaxation
- Excitement
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Off-switches (what they are and what they aren't)
Application (the practical stuff)
- Training exercises to build confidence
- Routines that support confidence
- Training exercises that help animals relax more easily and even on cue
- Routines to support greater calm and relaxation
- Canine body language
NOTE: If you’re planning to work with a different species of animal, grab a Gold spot so you can get your body language questions answered!
Additional considerations (the finicky stuff)
- Management
- Preparation
- Planning
- Troubleshooting
Quick course overview
In Week One, Gold students will share their goals and we will create a general plan for how to work towards those goals.
In Weeks Two through Five, Gold teams will start making a variety of changes, which will probably include training, management, and more. The rest of us will be celebrating and supporting their progress.
In Week Six, we will review where we are and how we got to this point. We will also focus on next steps both for those who have achieved their goals and those whose training needs a little more time to reach fruition.
Teaching Approach
Lectures will generally be posted at the beginning of the week. Each week's lectures will include practical tasks for students to work on. Most lectures will be provided as both video presentations (for those who prefer watching a video) and in a text format (for those who prefer to read lectures). Replies to student posts will include observations, tips, and (when applicable) suggestions for things to add or adjust.
Instructor: Irith Bloom
