Tips from a Trainer: An Unexpected Strategy to End Dog's Rush at the Front Door
In a bid to curb unwanted behaviours in dogs, such as jumping up at the front door, trainers are turning to an unexpected tool: snuffle mats. While snuffle mats are not specifically designed to address jumping behaviour, they can play a role in a broader training strategy.
One of the key benefits of snuffle mats is their ability to redirect a dog's energy. By engaging your dog's natural foraging instincts, these mats can help divert their focus away from jumping up at the door. By providing a stimulating activity, you can potentially reduce the likelihood of jumping by keeping your dog occupied.
Moreover, snuffle mats can have a calming effect on dogs, reducing excitement and overstimulation that often lead to jumping when visitors arrive. This calming effect can make it easier for dogs to respond to training commands.
To effectively stop jumping, a snuffle mat could be part of a comprehensive training plan that includes positive reinforcement techniques. For example, you might use a snuffle mat to distract the dog while you teach them to sit calmly at the door, and reward them with treats or verbal praise when they do so.
However, it's important to note that direct training methods are necessary to specifically address jumping behaviour. This might involve teaching a "sit" or "stay" command at the door, and rewarding the desired behaviour.
Juliana DeWillems, an expert trainer and the founder of JW Dog Training & Behavior, recommends using snuffle mats to address a dog's jumping issue at the front door. She advises using a dog's favourite treats when playing the snuffle mat game, and practicing with the pup daily to make them more familiar with the game.
In a recent Instagram post, JW Dog Training & Behavior Consulting featured a tip on using snuffle mats to address a dog's jumping issue at the front door. DeWillems suggests scattering treats in the snuffle mat when someone knocks or arrives at the house to keep the dog focused on the treats and away from guests.
For those who prefer a DIY approach, it's possible to make a snuffle mat for dogs. The Routesun Snuffle Mat for Dogs, available on Amazon, is a popular option that mimics grass on one half and has flaps, pockets, and cups on the other, providing maximum interactivity. This mat is suitable for hiding small treats and kibble, and can provide mental stimulation and stave off boredom for dogs.
Playing with a snuffle mat for 15 minutes can burn off as much energy as walking for an hour, making it a valuable tool in managing a dog's energy levels. It's a good idea to pre-warn guests before they arrive if the dog jumps up at visitors is an issue.
In summary, while snuffle mats are not a direct solution to a dog's jumping behaviour, they can be a valuable tool in a broader training strategy. By engaging a dog's natural foraging instincts, providing mental stimulation, and helping to manage energy levels, snuffle mats can help make training sessions more enjoyable and effective for both dogs and their owners.
- To help manage your dog's jumping at the front door, consider utilizing snuffle mats during training sessions.
- By scattering treats in a snuffle mat when someone knocks or arrives, you can keep your dog focused on the game and away from guests.
- Incorporating a snuffle mat into your dog's training routine can potentially reduce the likelihood of jumping by keeping them occupied and engaged.
- A comprehensive training plan for addressing a dog's jumping issue might include the use of positive reinforcement techniques, such as providing treats, verbal praise, or playing with a snuffle mat.
- When choosing a snuffle mat for your pet, the Routesun Snuffle Mat for Dogs, available on Amazon, is a popular option that can provide mental stimulation and stave off boredom for dogs.
