By Polina Semenoff CPDT-KA
We have all heard this new word go around the dog community, but what does it mean and how does it apply to you? Enrichment is a way to strengthen your dog’s cognitive flexibility through low-stress, fun, and problem-solving-type activities. For dog trainers, this is an essential component of a dog’s set of needs especially when working on a training plan. All needs should be met first! However, it is usually missed as a necessity or is executed in a manner that doesn’t meet the specific dog’s needs. Enrichment isn’t a one-size-fits-all activity. Each breed has its niches and activities its brain needs to complete to feel content. There are 8 steps in the canine predatory motor sequence (PMS): orient, eye, stalk, chase, grab-bite, kill-bite, dissect, and consume. Certain breeds excel in specific parts of this sequence. Border collies excel in the first half, while terriers excel in the last half of the sequence. It is important to know who you’re working with so you can ‘fill their cup’!
The reason we like to address the dog’s needs before making a training plan is that most of the time, especially amongst dog owners, the needs of the dog aren’t being met-which is causing breed-specific behavior problems. We want to be fair and give the dogs more opportunities to do what they need to do, and only after that do we start to implement training. Sometimes this is frustrating for owners to hear from their trainer as they want behaviors to be fixed, but unfortunately, the short way isn’t always the best way. It is important to address the root of the problem behavior, not just try to fix the symptoms of the problem. This is especially necessary for puppies and dogs that struggle with anxiety. Enrichment is sometimes looked at as something to do to pass the time or to keep your dog occupied-but we must look at it from a different perspective. It is a learning opportunity and helps us increase our dog’s mental well-being, which we all know is very important for humans-why not for our furry companions?
Since genetic testing is becoming more and more popular, let’s use it to see our dogs’ makeup! Especially with mixed breeds, sometimes we are very surprised to know that a small percentage of their genetic composition is the missing piece of the puzzle when facing common behavior issues. Or, we know their makeup, but just don’t know what to do with it!
We see a plentiful variety of breeds at My Dog’s Got Class and we can help you come up with enrichment activities for your specific dog. All dogs need enrichment in their lives, and there is a whole load of benefits that come with it once it’s implemented. Don’t be afraid to reach out! Please visit: mydogsgotclass.com or email Adrienne at: info@mydogsgotclass.com.
