07/31/2026
The biggest mistake new dog owners make is not teaching their puppy/dog the art of settle. A dog that doesn’t know how to self soothe and settle can become excitable, reactive, destructive, and develop separation anxiety. To do this we use an exercise called “Sit on the dog”. Slide on their harness, attach a leash, grab a chair (inside or outside), take a seat and wait for your dog to settle on their own. If they struggle a bit at first figuring out what is expected, that’s fine. No eye contact, no words, no bribes. Just wait it out and reward when they accomplish settle. Start at home before taking them into the real world, especially if they already struggle with some of the challenges listed above.
Scout is showing how it’s done while watching his favourite boy play soccer.
Shakespeare's Legacy Labradors Shannon MacBeth