Introducing: Canine CORE Method
When I first started training dogs, I was like a lot of other newbies, and only knew how to emulate my mentor. However, after working with hundreds of my own clients, I began to develop my own ideas, style, and method.
I started calling my method Canine Core because it was based on the "core exercises" of Natural Dog Training. Core was also meant to refer to the dog's emotional core, which is the foundation for all behavior.
Since then, I have refined and developed the somatic technologies that I use with dogs and people, and feel confident that I have my own, unique paradigm based on nervous system regulation and biological fulfillment.
So I came up with a clever acronym for CORE:
- Connect with your dog's energy.
- Operate within their window of tolerance.
- Reflect on internal states and take responsibility for your emotions.
- Engage with your dog's natural drives to offer biological fulfillment.
I firmly believe that without these CORE tenets, training will NOT work. This means that before we talk about manners, obedience, or behavior modification, I'm going to ask you to realize that your dog's behavior is neither good nor bad; it's simply an expression of their nervous system state. It's also a reflection of your own nervous system and unresolved emotions (what you carry in your field). Once we have established this understanding, we will find ways to work within your dog's window of tolerance (and your own).
We will connect with and engage your dog's energy through their natural drives. This ensures that before we start putting demands on them, we have fulfilled their biological needs. Biological needs are not limited to food/water/exercise. Biological fulfillment also includes satisfying your dog's specific level of drive, need for contact and connection, and their unique desire to overcome resistance. Some dogs may also have strong hunting/seeking behaviors, or a desire for conflict (bully breeds).
Before you train, evaluate the CORE and revisit as necessary.