Dogs With Big Emotions

Dogs can have emotions and sometimes there are dogs with big emotions. I have worked with enough dogs I have learned that each dog is an individual and what worked for one dog may not work for the next dog, even if it is the same breed. Mixed breeds are always so interesting too.

This is why I break training sessions into pieces. Most often there is some training and also added in with enrichment set ups too. Enrichment stations can help a dog as they are learning while the scary thing that upsets them is off in the distance. Distance will always be a good friend when a dog is fearful or stressed by something.

Sometimes a training session to help a dog can be an exercise of teaching the dog when they look at the handler a click will happen and a treat is dropped to the ground. Once the handler and dog have worked this exercise the scary upsetting trigger is coming into the set -up in a distance. Distance is important! The dog and handler are just learning to do this exercise, and this helps to keep the session calm. I want to see the dog look at the scary trigger even if it is just a glimpse and the dog looks back to the handler; the handler clicks and drops a treat. Calm is great!

Everyone involved in the set-up knows now that is a good distance. In these set ups we can use barriers a leash, or ring gates in a set-up is a great idea too.

The other great part is working one-on-one the handler, or caregiver also gets to learn so they can take it out and find areas where they can work with their dog. Everyone with a big emotions dog should understand how to work with their dog.

Often when I get the opportunity to work with a puppy, I will try to get good ideas and plans for the puppy. If a puppy is fearful, he will not just grow out of it. If fear is noticed early that is the time to help the dog.

Setting up enrichment stations as a reward and dogs can benefit from this. I often train outdoors and what I love about this is because it so natural. The environment is rich with plenty of scents on the ground. Scatter feeding can be used; I can use a small plastic pool and fill it with some balls and toss treats in the bottom. Scent stations can be set-up with Licky mats, and Kongs can be used. In the summer, I have different plants growing and often I will have Basil, and both Spearmint and Peppermint plants dogs can sniff them safely. Most dogs enjoy just sniffing along these plants. If you decide to use plants always check for safety. Be creative but safe!

As I am working with a dog and handler, I am observing the dog, and I want to know how the handler is feeling too. I want plans to be easy enough everyone involved feels comfortable.

Dogs with big emotions can be a learning experience for everyone. If you have a dog with big emotions your dog will be teaching, you a lot too.

These dogs should never be forced to move towards their trigger. Always find that distance where the dog is not reactive and showing big emotions. Working in stages like small pieces helps everyone involved with the dog.

Dogs with big emotions and reactivity can be helped. As always, as soon as you notice your dog is having emotions and is reactive, its best to start getting the dog help then. When a dog has rehearsed a behavior over and over, they become very good at it.

I offer behavior adjustment training and more in my sessions. The great part is you get to learn how to work with your dog.

Mecca Curtice, CDBC, CCDT, CBATI-KA, FDM

2026 Mecca's All Breed Dog Training, LLC

A dog with big emotions. Needs help by finding the distance needed to help the dog from going over threshold.