Character Sheet

Session Zero: 04/28/2025

Recommended Training Package: Cast Guidance

Thank you for your time during our recent consultation regarding Lucie's transition into her new home and addressing her resource guarding behaviors. It's encouraging to hear that your current management strategies are effective and that you and your husband feel secure.

As we discussed, while management is crucial, integrating training will help Lucie build confidence and reduce her guarding tendencies.

Session Recap & Key Takeaways

• Current Management: You're effectively minimizing conflict by removing attention, offering alternative rewards, and avoiding direct confrontation over possessions.

• Training Focus: Introducing structured exercises to gradually change Lucie's emotional response to resource-related situations.

Training Exercises

1. Super Sharing Protocol:

   • Setup: Tether Lucie in an open area, such as the stair bannister.

   • Exercise: Provide her with a Kong or food toy. From a safe distance, toss high-value treats (e.g., cheese, meatballs) towards her. Vary your position around her without decreasing the distance initially.

   • Progression: Once she's comfortable, gradually decrease the distance over multiple sessions.

   • Observation: Monitor for subtle signs of resource guarding:

     • Body Blocking: Positioning herself between you and the resource.

     • Freezing: Standing over the resource without engaging with it.

     • Whale Eye: Looking at you from the corner of her eye, showing the whites.

     • Lip Licking: Could indicate stress, especially if not related to food residue.

   • Note: Avoid pushing to the point of growling or lunging.

   2. "Drop" Cue Training:

   • Phase 1: Without any items present, say "drop" and immediately toss a treat a few steps away. Repeat until she anticipates the treat upon hearing the cue.

   • Phase 2: Introduce a low-value item on the ground. If she shows interest, say "drop" and toss a treat away from the item.

   • Phase 3: Gradually use items of slightly higher value, ensuring she consistently responds to the "drop" cue. Occasionally, after she moves away, pick up the item, reward her, and then return the item to her.

   • Conclusion: End each session with an "All done" cue and scatter treats for her to find, keeping sessions short and positive.

Additional Recommendations

• Muzzle Training: Introducing a muzzle can be a valuable tool for safety during walks and in situations where Lucie might pick up hazardous items. A force-free, positive reinforcement approach ensures she associates the muzzle with positive experiences.

• Understanding Canine Body Language: Recognizing subtle signs of stress or discomfort is crucial. One of the webinars in the library accessible through Cast Guidance focuses on Dog Body Language, or can be purchased individually on this page here.

Cast Guidance Program

Based on our discussion, the Cast Guidance program aligns well with your goals for Lucie. For $65/month, it includes:

• Access to a comprehensive library of workshops, webinars, and resources.

• Weekly Office Hours for live Q&A and coaching.

• One 30-minute virtual Skill Check per month.

• Weekly video reviews (up to 5 minutes) with feedback.

• 10% discount on all classes and workshops.

This program is designed to provide ongoing support and guidance as you work with Lucie.

Please let me know if you have any questions or if you'd like to enroll in the Cast Guidance program. I'm here to support you and Lucie every step of the way.