Confidence
Build a baseline of confidence so your dog can engage with the world calmly.
- Teaching
- Reinforcing
- Proofing
- Maintenance
Maple's stage at Elementary
Not assessed yetExpected: Proofing
Success indicator
Dog approaches novel sights and sounds without flight or freeze.
What it is
Confidence and appropriate interactions is crucial for a well-rounded temperament. However, there will be times where a negative association or response needs to be reconditioned with appropriate guidance.
How we teach it
- Introduce the dog to the new or unusual object.
- Begin building positive associations by rewarding any interaction.
- Gradually encourage more interaction with the goal of achieving a neutral or positive response.
- Allow the dog to disengage and try another time if they display reactivity or high levels of stress
Practice at home
- Be patient and consistent: It may take time and patience for your dog to overcome their fear of objects. Do not get discouraged if your dog does not make progress immediately.
- Take Photos or Videos: Capturing your progress back at home or outside will help us provide additional feedback.
Go deeper
Confidence is an important quality for all dogs to have. It helps them feel safe and secure, and it allows them to explore their environment and learn new things.
Read the Confidence Building guideMaple's record
No record yet
This skill has not been assessed for Maple yet. It will appear here after a trainer records it.
Add structure to your week
See where Confidence fits in Maple's personalized training plan.