Training Tips from Gizzy (and Cherie): Issue 12

🐾 Training Tips from Gizzy: The Art of Doing Nothing (Yes, Really!) 🐾

Hey, friends! So, something weird happened this week… nothing.

No big adventures. No wild playtimes. No new pups to meet. Just… quiet.

At first, I was very concerned. I kept looking at Cherie like, “Uh, hello? Did you forget to schedule the fun?!” But she just smiled and said, “Gizzy, this is the perfect time to practice relaxing.”

Wait…what? Practice relaxing?! Isn’t that just what happens when you run out of zoomies? Turns out, nope!

Cherie explained that learning to settle and chill out is a skill—just like sit, down, or come! And not just at home, but everywhere—at a café, in the car, at the vet, or when guests come over. She says it’s one of the most useful things a dog can learn, and I have to admit… she might be right.

So, this week, instead of running agility courses or playing chase with my brothers, we worked on something called "The Place Cue" and "Capturing Calmness." And guess what? I got treats for just laying there! Best. Training. Ever.

How to Teach Your Pup the Art of Chilling

🐾 Reward Calm Behavior – When your pup naturally lays down, stretches out, or sighs like they just gave up on life, quietly reward them. Treats, soft praise, or a gentle pet can reinforce that calm = good things!

🐾 Teach a “Place” Cue – This is where you send your dog to a comfy mat or bed and reward them for staying there. Start with short sessions, then build up to longer ones—this is great for when guests come over!

🐾 Use Food Puzzles or Chews – A frozen Kong, a tasty chew, or a snuffle mat helps keep a pup mentally engaged while also encouraging relaxation.

🐾 Practice in Different Places – Start at home, then try it in new environments (like a park bench or your favorite coffee shop). The more places your pup can settle, the better!

🐾 Stay Calm Yourself! – If you’re hyped up, pacing, or jittery, your dog will be too! Be the chill energy you want your pup to match.

Why This is So Important

A dog that can settle on command is a dog that can go more places, enjoy more adventures, and be a dream to live with. Plus, when we learn to turn off the zoomies, it actually makes training and focus way easier!

So tell me, friends—do you practice “doing nothing” with your pup? Or are they still in permanent zoomie mode? Let me know in the Facebook Group—I wanna hear all about your chill training sessions!

Until next time, keep wagging, stay cozy, and embrace the art of nothing! 💤🐾

Love,
Gizzy