Fear, anxiety, and stress can impact dogs in countless ways – sometimes through subtle calming signals, other times through obvious avoidance or shutdown. This engaging presentation uncovers the root causes of fear – genetics, early experiences, environment, and learning history – and teaches you how to recognize the signs before they escalate. Grounded in behavioral science, you’ll discover how classical and operant conditioning shape fearful responses and how force-free, evidence-based strategies can transform a dog’s emotional world.

Through real-world case applications, you’ll learn how to implement counter-conditioning, desensitization, and positive reinforcement to create lasting change. We’ll explore building coping skills with safe spaces and predictable routines, designing enrichment that fosters confidence, and empowering dogs through choice and control. You’ll leave with a clear, step-by-step plan and practical tools to help dogs progress from stress to success; always with compassion, empathy, and confidence.

Learning Objectives

• Recognize the signs of fear and stress
• Understand the causes of fear
• Apply behavioral science principles
• Use force-free tools: counter-conditioning, desensitization, positive reinforcement.
• Build coping skills through safe spaces & predictable routines
• Incorporate enrichment for confidence and resilience
• Empower dogs through choice and control
• Create a structured, step-by-step plan for success

Your Presenters-Louise Stapleton-Frappell

Louise Stapleton-Frappell – B.A. Hons, PCT- A, PCBC-A, CAP3, CTDI, DN-FSG2, DN-CPCT, CWRI

Louise is a Partner and Faculty Member of DogNostics Career Center and Board Member of The Pet Professional Guild. Louise has constantly built on her knowledge and furthered her education in the field of force-free, rewards-based, science-based pet training. The creator of the DogNostics’ Dog Trainer Certification Program, Louise has presented at conferences internationally and has gained a reputation for expertly teaching and training humans and canines at her own establishment, The DogSmith of Estepona, in Southern Spain, where she offers a wide range of both group and private classes and pet dog services.

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