Enrichment Reboot

In all environments, change is a constant. In a true learning environment, change is embraced to create rich learning opportunities. Much like children, dogs too, experience boredom. Also much like children, dogs need “living” environments where they are challenged in a positive way.

At Doglando, we are continuously assessing and evaluating the effectiveness of our work, and we are steadfast in creating the most enriching experiences for each dog as an individual.

How does Enrichment Reboot work?

Think of an Enrichment Reboot as a supplement to Enrichment. For 6 weeks your dog will be in our Skill Building program (this can be in addition to Enrichment, or in lieu of it).

Who is a candidate for Enrichment Reboot?

Our Enrichment Reboot program is for dogs who are enrolled in Enrichment.

Dogs have evolved from an era where “work” defined their purpose, to “companionship” which has broken all barriers of structure, purpose, and dignity. Many dogs thrive when given the opportunity to work in the company of a human. This is completely difference than giving them the opportunity to be free to create their own experiences.

In Skill Building, the experience is designed by the trainer, and together the trainer and dog work as a team to accomplish a task. The key required elements of this kind of a learning structure include: focus, attention, and engagement with the trainer, regardless of the conditions in the environment.

Many dogs NEED this. It’s something they crave. As a result, they are happier, content, and enrichment becomes fulfilling.

Dogs who need it most are those who:

thrive with closer human connections (smaller groups of dogs)
need clear direction
need guidance in a group
love learning
love being stimulated
love solving problems
are highly in-tune with, and aware of, changes in the environment (sounds and sights especially)

How will Enrichment Reboot benefit me and my dog?

Variety is the spice of happiness.

“If a drop of water falls on the surface of the sea just over the flower-like disc of a sea anemone, the whole animal contracts vigorously. If, then, a second drop falls within a few minutes of the first, there is less contraction, and finally, on the third or fourth drop, the response disappears altogether” (Jennings, 1906).

The way in which our dogs live today, unfortunately, create more patterns of habituation than stimulation. At Doglando, we are conscious of that, and as a result it is an ongoing assessment to assure our dogs don’t fall into habituation unless it is of behavioral benefit to them.

Exponential growth occurs by properly supporting each dog in his or her development and learning.

Wellness can only be observed when we support each dog as an individual and help them meet their needs. Deprivation occurs when their needs are not met.

As a result of combining Enrichment Reboot and Enrichment, you will notice your dog will:

transfer learned behaviors to your home environment
become trusted with more space and freedom
engage with you much faster (eager to cooperate)
create an internal balance between play and rest

the Benefits to the dog

smaller groups
individual engagement
high-touch
refresher in skills
field trips
ability to exercise their true role of influencing other dogs in skill building to make positive choices
new environment
applied learning
regenerate new neural pathways
change of speed
comes back into enrichment with a deeper desire of connection