'Mr. Rogers' in Dog Training!

If you only talk to your dog when scary things are happening, your dog could learn that you talking to them predicts scary things. Oops!

It is really important, then, to normalize talking to your dog when life is super smooth, and nothing much is happening at all. You can also give treats as feedback for appropriate responses to the events occurring in conjunction with naming the 'scary thing', to help build positive associations and shape for desirable reactions to life’s circumstances.

So, it a nutshell, talk to your dog like Mr. Rogers!

As you are explaining the world to the dog, keep your voice just like Mr. Rogers, a calm, gentle tone that can help create neutral associations with the 'thing'. It’s a way to acknowledge your dog’s emotions and narrate your dog’s successes when navigating a tough situation. Being aware of when a dog has concerns or questions is an important skill to build so that you are able to provide information when your dog needs it most.