In Episode 379 of The Canine Paradigm, Glenn Cooke and Pat Stuart return to box work for dogs and revisit one of the show’s most talked-about subjects.

Since our original Mysteries of the Box conversation, there has been plenty of time to use it, watch others use it and see where the explanations could have been clearer. We discuss what the exercise is intended to achieve, the mistakes that can undermine it and why the individual dog should guide the decisions.

There is also time for Pat’s suitcase-shopping story, where some exceptionally enthusiastic customer service turns out to involve a case of mistaken identity.

Contains strong language.

Returning to the original box conversation

Pat looks back at learning the approach from Bart Bellon and exploring it with his own dog and clients’ dogs. Sharing it through the podcast brought new questions, experiences and examples of how people were using it.

We revisit why Pat wanted that information to be accessible, particularly to owners with limited access to professional help. We also discuss the value of practical feedback when someone needs help applying what they have learnt.

The box does not have to be a box

One of Pat’s central points is that the exercise should not depend on buying a particular product.

A purpose-built box can make some aspects easier, but its dimensions, shape and colour are only part of the picture. We explain why the original design took the form it did and how questions about its measurements became a running joke.

Understanding what you are teaching gives the equipment its purpose. That applies well beyond box work.

Box work for dogs and the individual learner

An exercise can be useful without belonging in every dog’s training plan. Pat explains why some dogs can become frustrated with box work and why tracking already provides some of the qualities he is looking for with the dogs he currently raises.

We also explore Pat’s comparison between box work and meditation. He shares his interpretation of the relationship between slowing down, breathing through the nose and concentrating on a task, drawing on his observations and his own experience of meditation.

The practical question is what the individual dog needs and whether the exercise is helping.

Avoiding conflict around food

We revisit a misunderstanding that followed the original discussion: putting a whole meal in the box, introducing an overwhelming distraction and then snatching the food away when the dog looks up.

Pat explains why that approach misses the purpose of the exercise and can create conflict around the food and the distraction. His message is to go softly and avoid overwhelming the dog.

We also clarify what he meant by ending a session, rather than treating every brief movement of the dog’s head as a reason to take everything away.

Make the task clear to the learner

We finish with a point that applies to any training tool: if the handler does not understand the exercise, the dog has little chance of understanding it either.

Clear criteria, thoughtful practice and useful feedback all matter. Following half the instructions can leave both ends of the lead frustrated. Finding the right person to help can make the next step much clearer.

Have you used box work with your dog, and what did it teach you about helping that dog settle and focus? Join The Canine Paradigm discussion group and let us know.

Further Details

Explore Glenn’s training and education work through Pet Resorts Australia, and Pat’s coaching through Serious Dog Business. Pat’s complete box resource is currently included in the community’s seven-day free trial.

Support the ongoing production of The Canine Paradigm through Patreon. You can also help by sharing episodes, leaving a review and recommending the show to other dog owners and trainers.

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Contact us at info@thecanineparadigm.com.

Dog Training and Canine Wellness Resources

Visit our Dog Training and Canine Wellness page for further resources from Serious Dog Business and Canine Ceuticals. It brings together practical training education and information about nutritional support for dog owners, trainers and handlers.

Canine Ceuticals by Narelle Cooke

Founded by accredited naturopath, nutritionist and herbalist Narelle Cooke, Canine Ceuticals offers Australian-made supplements using human-grade ingredients.

The range provides targeted nutritional support for companion, sporting and working dogs. Explore Narelle’s resources and the Canine Ceuticals range to learn more about supporting your dog’s foundational health.

Canine Ceuticals is also available in the United States. Visit the US stockists page to find a supplier.

Support Our Supporters

Listen to Narelle Cooke’s podcast, Natural Health for People and Pets.

Our thanks also go to Jason Firmin at Einzweck Dog Quip, From the Heart Dog Training and Birdy O’Sheedy at The Magic in Dogs. Please take a moment to explore their work and support the people who support the show.

Special Thanks

Thank you to Jane Stuart, Avery Keller and Zoie Neidy for the artwork, creativity and ongoing support they contribute to The Canine Paradigm.

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