Is Your Dog Ready to Learn?

Is Your Dog Ready to Learn?

A Quick Guide to Understanding Where Your Dog Is Right Now

The Simple Truth: A stressed, overwhelmed, or over-excited dog’s brain is in survival mode. Survival mode doesn’t have room for “sit” and “stay.” It’s like trying to remember your
phone number while someone’s chasing you!

Picture of Sunny after the pet store

Which Phase Is Your Dog In Right Now?

Phase 1: Safety First (Does my dog need this?)

My dog seems stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed daily.
They react strongly to triggers and take a long time to calm down.
Even at home, they seem “on edge” or can’t fully relax.
Training feels impossible because they can’t focus

If you checked any boxes: Your dog needs Phase 1 – Safety First

Phase 2: Teaching Alternatives (Does my dog need this?)

My dog is calmer at home but still doesn’t know what I want
They’re ready to learn but we haven’t taught clear alternatives yet
I find myself saying “No” or “Stop” more than telling them what to do.
They have calm moments but need to learn new skills.

If you checked any boxes: Your dog is ready for Phase 2 – Teaching

Great pyrenese mix looking at their owner after not reacting to a dog they saw

Phase 3: Real-World Practice (Does my dog need this?)

My dog knows cues at home but “forgets” them in public
Skills work in easy situations but fall apart with distractions
I need help making their training work in real-life situations
They’re ready for more challenging practice

If you checked any boxes: Your dog is ready for Phase 3 – Adaptability

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What To Do Based on Your Dog’s Phase:

Phase 1 – Safety First: This Week’s Focus

A dog who was human-dog reactive is practicing laying down on the ground with people around the kitchen island.

Remove or manage the triggers they can’t handle yet (window film, avoiding certain routes).

Establish 2-3 predictable daily routines they can count on.

Give them 1-3 hours of uninterrupted rest time twice daily.

Practice one simple cue (like “sit”) only when everything is completely calm.

Phase 2 – Teaching: This Week’s Focus

Loki and Luna watching construction across the street and the dog's used to have dog behavior concerns.

Pick ONE behavior you want to see more of (like “come to me when the doorbell rings”).

Practice this new behavior 3-5 times daily when everything is calm.

Use treats generously – you’re building new habits.

Celebrate small wins and ignore mistakes.

Phase 3 – Real-World Practice: This Week’s Focus

Take one skill your dog knows well at home and practice it in the front yard.

Gradually add mild distractions (have someone walk by, practice during dinner prep)

If they struggle, make it easier – you want them to succeed

Practice in 2-3 different locations this week

Remember

Meet Your Dog Where They Are

“Some days will feel like breakthroughs. Others will feel like starting over. Both are part of the
process.” – Amanda Lunsford

Applejack and Sunny relaxing on the front porch.

Questions about which phase your dog needs? Text Amanda @ (904) 201-9787

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