If you have a dog that is easily startled, reactive, or sensitive to certain triggers, you may have found traditional training methods to be less effective or even counterproductive. Enter Control Unleashed, a dog training method specifically designed to help reactive dogs develop emotional control, build confidence, and learn to manage their behaviours in a positive and gentle way.
Developed by Leslie McDevitt, a renowned dog trainer and behaviorist, Control Unleashed is an innovative approach that focuses on teaching dogs to become calm and confident in the face of stress, fear, and excitement. This method is particularly effective for dogs who are reactive to other dogs, people, or various environmental stimuli. If you’re looking for a gentle yet powerful training tool to help your sensitive dog, Control Unleashed may be the answer.
What is Control Unleashed?
Control Unleashed is a dog training program that emphasizes creating a calm, controlled, and positive environment for dogs, especially those that struggle with anxiety, fear, or overstimulation. Unlike traditional methods that may rely on aversive techniques (such as punishment), Control Unleashed focuses on positive reinforcement, building trust, and creating a stronger bond between the dog and owner.
The program is based on the understanding that reactive dogs often experience heightened stress and arousal, which can result in undesirable behaviors like barking, lunging, or snapping. Control Unleashed works by teaching dogs how to control their emotions and impulses in a variety of situations, using techniques like relaxation exercises, focus-building activities, and controlled exposure to triggers.
Key Principles of Control Unleashed
- Building a Strong Foundation Control Unleashed starts with building a strong foundation of trust and understanding between you and your dog. The goal is to create a safe, supportive environment where your dog feels confident and secure. This is done through clear communication, consistency, and a focus on reinforcing positive behaviors.
- Focus on Calmness and Relaxation One of the core principles of Control Unleashed is teaching dogs how to relax and manage their emotions. Dogs who are reactive often become overstimulated, which leads to impulsive behavior. By using techniques like the “Crate Games”, dogs learn to settle down and redirect their energy in a calm and controlled manner.
- Desensitization and Counter-Conditioning The method also incorporates desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques, which help dogs adjust to situations that typically trigger reactive responses. For example, if a dog reacts to other dogs or certain noises, Control Unleashed teaches them to become desensitized to these triggers by gradually exposing them in a controlled way while reinforcing calm behavior.
- Focus and Engagement Control Unleashed places a strong emphasis on teaching dogs to focus on their owners, even when distractions or stressors are present. By reinforcing the dog’s ability to redirect their attention and stay engaged with their handler, the method teaches dogs to maintain control over their impulses, even in challenging situations.
- Positive Reinforcement Throughout the training process, Control Unleashed relies on positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. This could involve treats, praise, or toys as rewards when your dog responds correctly. Positive reinforcement helps dogs associate desired behaviors with good things, making them more likely to repeat those behaviors.
Benefits of Control Unleashed for Reactive Dogs
- Reduced Reactivity and Stress One of the most significant benefits of Control Unleashed is that it helps reactive dogs learn to manage their stress and reduce their reactivity. By providing dogs with the tools to stay calm and focused, they can become more relaxed in situations that once caused them anxiety or excitement.
- Improved Behavior and Focus Dogs trained using Control Unleashed often exhibit improved behavior, including better focus, fewer impulsive reactions, and increased self-control. These dogs learn to stay calm and responsive to their handler, even in stressful or distracting situations.
- Stronger Bond with Your Dog The method emphasizes building trust and understanding between you and your dog, which leads to a stronger, more cooperative relationship. As you work together to improve your dog’s emotional regulation, you’ll deepen the bond you share, making training more enjoyable and rewarding for both of you.
- Increased Confidence Reactive dogs often lack confidence, especially in unfamiliar situations. Control Unleashed helps build a dog’s confidence by teaching them how to navigate stressful environments and work through challenging situations. This boost in confidence can help them become more comfortable and less reactive overall.
- Gentle, Positive Training Approach Unlike training methods that rely on punishment or negative reinforcement, Control Unleashed takes a gentle, positive approach. This makes it an ideal choice for sensitive dogs who may have had negative experiences with traditional training techniques. It fosters trust and creates a positive association with training sessions.
How to Get Started with Control Unleashed
- Attend a Control Unleashed Class If you’re interested in learning more about Control Unleashed, attending a class led by a certified instructor is a great place to start. Many professional trainers offer Control Unleashed workshops or private sessions, where you can get hands-on guidance and personalized instruction for your reactive dog.
- Read Control Unleashed by Leslie McDevitt Leslie McDevitt’s book, Control Unleashed: Creating a Calm, Focused Dog, is an excellent resource for understanding the principles and techniques behind the method. The book includes step-by-step instructions for training exercises, as well as detailed explanations of how to manage reactivity and build a calm, focused dog.
- Practice at Home Once you’ve learned the basics, it’s important to practice the techniques consistently at home. Incorporate relaxation exercises, focus-building games, and controlled exposure to triggers into your daily routine. Consistency and patience are key to success.
- Gradual Progression Remember that Control Unleashed is a process that takes time. Be patient with your dog, and always move at a pace that they can handle. Progress may be slow at first, but with dedication and practice, you’ll begin to see positive changes in your dog’s behavior.
Conclusion
Control Unleashed is a gentle, effective, and scientifically-backed dog training method that can make a world of difference for reactive and sensitive dogs. Through positive reinforcement, focus-building exercises, and relaxation techniques, Control Unleashed helps dogs manage their reactivity, reduce stress, and build confidence.
Whether you’re dealing with a dog who’s reactive to other dogs, fearful of certain situations, or simply needs help managing their emotions, Control Unleashed provides the tools you need to create a calm, well-behaved dog who is confident and focused.
If you’re passionate about helping your dog overcome their reactivity in a compassionate way, Control Unleashed is an approach you should consider—it’s a game-changer for both you and your dog.
