More On Early Intervention Training

As mentioned in an earlier post, Early Intervention Training is intended to address your puppy’s age-specific development issues before working on any obedience training goals.  You have a limited window of opportunity to prep your pup for a lifetime of stable and healthy interactions with the world and its inhabitants. And dont forget the importance of socialization; Touch is an extension of that.

Instinctively, dogs don’t allow other animals to hold them against their will. However, your dog may need to be groomed, and all dogs need to visit the veterinarian. Being patient and still while a stranger pokes and prods him is not so easy for your dog. Use treats to gradually and gently teach your dog to be okay with mildly uncomfortable touch and make these experiences stress free for both you and your dog.

Teach your puppy to accept mild restraint and welcome any human touch by massaging and petting him daily.  Try to relax your hands and body, then take a deep breath to encourage your dog to chill. Use lots of treats to ensure this becomes a positive experience.

For small dogs, start by holding them your arms like an infant and periodically say “Relax” while you hold them. Play "Vet" with your dog by gently massaging your dog’s ears, head, temples, shoulders, chest, legs, paws, foot pads, toes, nails, tail, etc. If he struggles, say “Eh-eh!” and wait for him to calm down before continuing. Again, use LOTS of treats!
 

Once your dog is at ease with the first stage or if your dog is a bigger breed, gently place them on the floor, roll them over onto his side and massage in the same manner on the floor.  Make sure its a good time to play this game with your pup.  A not so great time, for instance, is when he first wakes up and is full of energy!  

For more information on Early Intervention Training and Touch, visit Zen Dog Training Online.