Module Overview

Fear, anxiety, and stress can impact dogs in countless ways — from subtle calming signals to obvious avoidance or shutdown. This engaging module uncovers the root causes of fear, including genetics, early experiences, environment, and learning history, and teaches you how to recognize the signs before they escalate. Grounded in behavioral science, you’ll discover how classical and operant conditioning shape fearful responses and how force-free, evidence-based strategies can transform a dog’s emotional world. Through real-world case applications, you’ll learn to implement counter-conditioning, desensitization, and positive reinforcement, build coping skills with safe spaces and predictable routines, design enrichment to foster confidence, and empower dogs through choice and control. You’ll leave with a structured, step-by-step plan and practical tools to guide dogs from stress to success — with compassion, empathy, and confidence.

📚 🐕 Key Learning Objectives

• Recognize the signs of fear and stress
• Understand the causes of fear
• Apply behavioral science principles
• Use force-free tools: CC, DS, positive reinforcement
• Build coping skills through safe spaces & routines
• Incorporate enrichment for resilience
• Empower dogs through choice and control
• Create a structured, step-by-step plan for success