Gundogs, Routines and Flexibility

Routines and Flexibility: Helping Your Gundog Feel Safe and Calm with the Right Balance

As the clocks go back and the days grow shorter, some of us – and some of our gundogs – feel the change more than others. For many dogs, especially anxious gundogs, routine is a source of stability which brings them comfort. A consistent schedule can give them a sense of predictability in a world that often feels overwhelming. However, there are perils to creating a routine that is too rigid, especially when life throws unexpected changes your way.

Let’s explore how to strike a balance between giving your gundog a sense of calm, and having just the right amount of flexibility built in.

The Power of Routine for Anxious and Reactive Gundogs

For gundogs prone to anxiety or reactivity, routines can be a grounding experience. Knowing when meals, walks, and training times will happen can lower their stress levels and help them focus, rather than constantly reacting to new surprises and spiking their stress levels. By sticking to a pattern, you allow your gundog to anticipate what’s coming, easing them out of high-alert mode and into a place of greater calm and confidence.

To further support this, it can help to “name” parts of your gundog’s walk, such as “the woods” or “the meadow path,” especially if you have regular routes and to do the same with routines. Naming things gives your gundog a predictor as to what will happen next, helping them to relax as they then know what to anticipate. The words you use act like a road map, letting your gundog know where you’re headed, which can make the journey less overwhelming.

Creating a Flexible Routine to Reduce Stress During Changes

While routines are excellent for structure, gundogs can become overly attached, making them distressed by even slight changes, like the recent clock change. Introducing small, planned variations into your gundog’s day can help them become more resilient. For instance, if your gundog has a set feeding time, try gradually shifting it by a few minutes now and then, so they learn to adapt and stay relaxed. Same for walks, or times you might have for play, even small changes in routine will be helpful.

Using Routine Cues in Social Situations

For reactive gundogs or those uncertain around other gundogs, having a routine around greetings (or if greetings are not advisable due to temperament then even passing another gundog or person) can make a world of difference. For instance you might use a specific cue for when it’s okay to greet another gundog, like “Say hello,” and another for when it’s time to move along, such as “Let’s go.” If your gundog would be unhappy greeting then instead you could have a verbal cue for seeing and then passing another gundog. When they understand what’s allowed and what’s not, gundogs often feel more secure and less reactive in these encounters.

Building “Reset” Routines for Overwhelming Moments

If you notice your gundog becoming stressed or overstimulated during a walk or training, a simple reset routine can help bring them back to a calm state. This might be a quick three-step exercise they know well and feel good about, like a sit, down, stand and gentle release or whatever else they know really well and find really easy. These easy, familiar actions can shift their focus and help them regain confidence.

A well-planned mini routine, tailored to your gundog’s unique needs, can transform daily life from a series of potential stressors to a safe, reassuring rhythm. And with just a bit of flexibility added in, you can help your gundog thrive in a more adaptable and balanced way.

Give it a try and you may find that a little routine goes a long way in helping your gundog feel more grounded and at ease.

Content Disclaimer

The information contained above is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this article is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this article. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this article. Nina Fotara T/as Confident Canine disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this article.