Release the Pressure

Pressure release training, what is it? This term can be confusing to many dog owners, but is a common phrase in the horse industry. Applying pressure is the motivator for movement and Releasing pressure is a reward. So what is pressure? Pressure can be physical, spacial or emotional. It is the act of applying an amount of stress to the animal in order to get them thinking, and the release of that pressure at the exact moment the animal accomplishes the task.

For dogs, many people use this type of training without realising it. For instance, asking a dog to sit is a good time to practice this method.

HOW:

When your dog is on a leash, make sure the leash is high on the neck, right behind the ears. Gently apply upwards pressure, naturally the dogs instinct will be to lower the behind in order to make room to lift the neck up and escape the pressure. When his but hits the ground release all pressure and give lots of praise. The next time you try this method, your dog will understand that if he wants pressure released from the leash, he must sit. Eventually only a slight pressure will get the desired action at which point you can focus on transitioning to verbal commands.

SPACIAL PRESSURE:

Pressure can also be applied by coming into the dogs personal space. This method only really works with fear cases and dogs that are weary of humans. For instance, if you have a fearful dog in a small room or fenced in area, you dont want to walk right up to the dog because they will probably run to a corner of the room, and continuing to pursue the dog will initiate a flight and then fight response when the dog tries to get out of the corner. Obviously, this is a good way to set yourself up for a bite. Instead, you can gently, with a treat in your hand, apply small amounts of pressure by entering the dogs comfort zone and making him uncomfortable. This process can be painstakingly slow, but worth the reward. If the dog shows a sign of relaxation, get up and walk away. we always want to encourage relaxation, approaching a dog that has an intense stare and rigid stature is asking for trouble. Eventually the dog will learn to let you closer and closer, at which point you can get close enough to give the dog a treat, and walk away.

Pressure and release can be used in many different situations. A quiet steady hand and quiet energy will encourage the desired result; pressure should never be applied with force. Force will only teach the dog to be fearful and distrusting of the handler. Pressure is only a tool to get the dogs mind thinking, it is the release of the pressure that is a reward, and the lesson is learned with the release.

#walking #leash #pressure #release #training