04/07/2026
I came across a post talking about the difference between neutrality and regulation, and SUCH a great point was made.
Regulation is the goal. It's an emotional state. Neutrality is an external picture. It can be misleading.
If I were to interfere with AJ's reaction to the blender in this moment, it would set her back and prevent her from truly regulating herself.
If I coddled her it might reinforce the fear reaction. If she broke position and I corrected her, it would suppress her real emotions and lead to surface neutrality, not regulation.
Calm guidance, with little to no input is what dogs need in these situations. If she had broken position, I would've allowed her to process the situation, before calmly asking for a down again. However, she maintained position, so I allowed her to observe and surpass the initial startle, and I offered quiet praise when she refocused on me.
Finding that happy medium when building environmental stability and confidence is so important. Knowing the dog in front of you and when to push them versus when to take a step back is crucialππ»