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We send our dogs to daycare with the intention of helping them socialize and expend their excess energy. Therefore, if a pet owner cannot spot their dog actively playing in the photos, it can lead to confusion and dissatisfaction.
At Happy Hound Daycare, LLC, our goal is for all dog interactions to be safe, healthy, and balanced. Our primary tool for dealing with unbalanced interactions is redirection. If we are able to engage a dog, get their attention, and redirect them, then the dog is likely still in a healthy, learning mindset. As dogs become more aroused, anxious, or stimulated, they also
become increasingly more challenging to redirect. This is when we tend to see unbalanced interactions and reduced inhibition control.
WHAT IS AROUSAL IN DOGS?
When we talk about dogs being aroused or having our pack’s arousal level be high, we are referring to a state of physiological alertness and readiness for action.
When a dog experiences a stressful situation, the arousal stays with them for a long time
When a dog experiences multiple stressful situations in close succession, the arousal from each situation builds on top of each other, or “stacks”
After experiencing a stressful situation, it can take a dog up to 72 hours to process the arousal and get back down to “normal”!
Daycare provides a stimulating environment for dogs, often being the highlight of their daily routine. To help dogs manage their excitement, our Handlers implement "decompressing breaks." We are attentive to each dog's mental well-being and proactively provide breaks if we notice any signs of undesirable behavior. It's crucial to address these behaviors promptly as dogs learn from their actions. By consistently offering breaks at the first signs of overstimulation, dogs can learn to self-regulate their play within the group and understand the importance of taking breaks independently.
WHEN DOES A DOG NEED A BREAK?
Dogs displaying imbalanced or unhealthy behaviors that cannot be addressed through management or playroom tools may require some time off.
Behaviors include:
Not reading other dogs’ cutoff/space signals
Bullying behavior
Reactivity
Exhibiting more and more aggressive space signals
Fixation
High intensity play without self-regulation or calming signals
If we can identify what triggers a dog’s arousal, we can be proactive in keeping its arousal level low and giving breaks during times the trigger is present.
Triggers include:
Pick-ups/drop-offs
Outside rotation
Shift change
Meal time
New people
The pool/hose
Certain dogs may require more frequent breaks to enhance their performance in group play.
Special cases include:
Low threshold
Dogs who are at daycare 5 days a week
Young/adolescent dogs who are still developing their skill sets
New adult dogs who have never been to daycare
By nurturing a positive mindset in every dog, we can impart the necessary skills and behaviors required for successful participation in group play. As time goes on, numerous dogs evolve into excellent daycare candidates, equipped with a wide range of abilities!
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