Why your nervous system matters to your gundog
and how to reset it….
If your gundog feels scattered, clingy, over-alert, or disconnected, the first place to look isn’t their behaviour, it’s your own nervous system. Our dogs read us in ways we often overlook. The way we breathe, move, and hold ourselves speaks volumes. In this post, I’ll share a handful of gentle reset rituals that help you return to a state of grounded clarity, so you can offer your gundog the safety and leadership they crave.
These aren’t just quick fixes; they’re part of a deeper rhythm that builds trust, presence, and partnership.
🌿 Reset Rituals:
Panoramic Views & Physiological Sighs
Supporting your nervous system, grounding your energy, and creating calm connection for both ends of the lead.
🌾 When to use these techniques
- Before a walk, cue, or session
- If you notice yourself tensing
- When your gundog is picking up on your energy
- Anytime you need to return to calm awareness
These tiny rituals create powerful shifts — in you, and in your gundog. They’re not about controlling the moment, they’re about softening into it.
🖼 Panoramic Views
What are they?
A simple visual practice that gently signals safety to the brain by expanding your field of view. It calms the nervous system and invites presence.
How to do it:
- Stand still or sit comfortably.
- Soften your gaze — look ahead, not down, and don’t fixate on one thing.
- Allow your eyes to take in the edges of your vision: the sky, the horizon, trees in your periphery.
- Breathe slowly. Notice the space around you. Let your vision widen naturally.
Why they work:
When we are anxious or alert, our eyes narrow and focus in. That “tunnel vision” signals threat. Panoramic viewing reverses that signal. It helps the brain shift from stress into safety — and when you do, your gundog feels it too.
🌬 Physiological Sighs
What are they?
A natural, built-in reset for your body and mind. You’re likely already doing this unconsciously, this is about making it intentional.
How to do it:
- Inhale deeply through your nose
- Then, take a second, shorter breath at the top of that inhale
- Exhale slowly and fully through your mouth
- Repeat once or twice (no more than 3–4 times)
Why they work:
This double-inhale followed by a long exhale is one of the fastest, most efficient ways to calm your autonomic nervous system. It helps regulate heart rate, reduces internal tension, and creates space for clearer connection.
Disclaimer:
This resource is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace personalised training, veterinary advice, or behavioural assessment. Please use your discretion and work within your gundog’s individual needs, sensitivities, and capabilities. If you have any concerns about your dog’s behaviour or wellbeing, seek guidance from a qualified professional.
© Nina Fotara 2025 – All rights reserved. This resource is not to be reproduced or distributed without written permission.
