Course Details
Before your dog can offer true focus or engagement, they need to be in an optimal state of arousal. Just like us, if a dog's arousal level is too low, they’ll struggle to stay attentive, and learning becomes difficult. On the other hand, if their arousal is too high, their brain is flooded with chemicals that impair impulse control and decision-making. High arousal can easily spill over into anxiety or frustration—neither of which support effective learning. It's difficult to focus when you're overly excited, anxious, or overwhelmed.
As trainers, it’s our responsibility to help our dogs find and maintain that sweet spot where focus, engagement, and learning can happen. In this presentation, we’ll explore what optimal arousal looks like. You’ll learn strategies to both raise and lower your dog’s arousal, as well as how to develop cues that allow you to adjust arousal levels in real time. This gives you the tools to actively manage your dog’s state for consistent focus and engagement.
About the Instructor:
From Petra (she/her):
I’ve always loved dogs and training! Actually, I’m obsessed with it! No two dogs are ever alike, and I’ve had quite the variety with lots of challenges. Which means I’m always changing what I do and looking for new and creative ways to improve my communication. I love experimenting! It’s gives me great pleasure to share what I have learned. Watching students learn and grow is incredibly rewarding.
I have trained and competed in hunt tests, field trials, agility and nosework. But my first love has always been competitive obedience. My first dog Duncan earned a MH title and a UDX. Tyler was a two-time National champion, First-Runner Up and World Champion. His son, Zeal is also a National Champion. Zeal won the 2018 Obedience Classic, and multiple Regionals. Zayna won the Novice Division in the 2019 Obedience Classic, was Second Runner Up at Nationals and won and placed in Regionals. Zesty started trialing in 2023, earned his CD with two 200s, his CDX with a 200 and completed his UD. His next trial was the Tennessee Regional where he placed 4th competing against National level competitors. Zesty has his OTCH and UDX. All of my dogs have earned multiple 200’s, High in Trials and High Combineds. But my most meaningful accomplishments are when my dogs are confident and animated in the ring.
I am also an avid runner competing in half marathons. I hike multiple days a week. With the dogs of course! I am passionate about mental management and meditate. I’ve recently started indoor rock climbing. I’m always up for a challenge!
