Week 8: Confidence Building & Handling Skills

Confidence Building & Handling Skills

This week is all about boosting confidence and improving handling tolerance, helping dogs feel secure in different situations and comfortable with human touch.

Build confidence and develop your handling skills

Zeus’s Progress

Zeus is gaining confidence but still needs reassurance in certain situations. We’re focusing on positive handling experiences to prevent stress and resistance. His playfulness is increasing, but he still needs guidance on appropriate interactions. He loves being groomed and tummy rubs, and when he has gone to the vets, it has been alongside other dogs that have no fear of the vet, so this has helped him.

Confidence-Building Exercises

A confident dog is one that feels safe exploring new experiences. This week’s focus is on structured activities that build trust and resilience.

🐾 Key Training Activities:

✔️ Obstacle Work – Walking over different surfaces (wood, grass, gravel) or stepping through poles to improve body awareness.

✔️ New Experiences – Visiting new places, meeting calm dogs, and exploring different environments.

✔️ Controlled Socialisation – Encouraging interaction with friendly, well-mannered dogs while ensuring positive experiences only.

✔️ Food Puzzles & Problem-Solving – Encouraging independent thinking through enrichment activities like snuffle mats and puzzle feeders.

🐾 Confidence Tips:

➡ Keep sessions short and fun—end on a positive note.

➡ Use high-value rewards to reinforce brave behaviour.

➡ Give him time—don’t force interactions if he’s hesitant.

Handling Skills & Body Awareness

Many dogs struggle with being handled, whether it’s for vet visits, grooming, or general care.

This week, we focus on helping dogs accept touch in a positive way.

🐾 Training Steps:

✔️ Gentle Touch & Massage – Gradually introduce stroking sensitive areas (paws, ears, tail) with rewards.

✔️ Desensitising to Grooming Tools – Let the dog sniff and interact with brushes, leads, and nail clippers before using them.

✔️ Handling with Trust – Use treats when lifting paws, checking ears, or holding the collar to build positive associations.

✔️ Practise Vet-Like Exams – Gently touch his legs, open his mouth, and handle his body to prepare for real check-ups.

🐾 Common Handling Issues & Solutions:

❌ Resistance to being touched? Start slow, reward calm behaviour.

❌ Pulling away during grooming? Use a lick mat with peanut butter to keep him occupied.

❌ Nervous with new people handling him? Have them offer treats first, then gradually introduce touch.

Final Thoughts

Building confidence takes time, but small daily efforts make a big difference! Zeus is making progress, and by continuing positive exposure and handling exercises, he’ll feel even more secure in everyday life.

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