23/09/2025
Training Tips !!!
Cool Down Periods...
.. something so important to training, yet often overlooked, is what I like to call, cool down periods.
Now these are primarily for the end of training sessions but not exclusive to the end of sessions and can be used at any time in training, during sessions.
Training for the best part is fun, exciting and adrenalised, particularly when it comes to anything that involves play (fetch, running, chasing, tug, flirt pole etc). Young dogs or dogs that lack impulse control can struggle to calm down when these sessions are concluded, this can lead to them struggling to switch off and turning a bit naughty, where they want the game to continue.
Such behaviours that could lead to jumping up, barking at you for more or biting in a playful manner.
This is where cool down periods come into play.
So what is a cool down period ???
A cool down period is something that is calming.
The 2 things I like to use that I find most beneficial is either a structured walk, at the end of a training session that’s conducted outside or a duration Down/Stay.
During these times, I like to say very little and focus on my breathing and my actions and remaining calm, so the dog feeds off of me.
I will often sweeten the deal after a few minutes where possible (mainly indoors) with a bone or a kong or a licker mat.
These things I like to give when the dog is slightly calmer almost as a reward but also to help the dog then calm down further. This is particularly useful for teething puppies (bone or Kong) so they not only calm down, which will help with nap time (you don’t want to put a loaded pup straight into a crate for a nap) but also to satisfy that teething/biting urge.
Cool down periods are great for teaching adrenalised dogs, to switch off and slow down.
Some dogs will naturally stop when you stop, but young pups and a lot of breeds, need some extra help.
So remember this, when you’re training.
