In Episode 355 of The Canine Paradigm, we ask a simple question with a messy answer. Is a tired dog a good dog, or just a flat one? We look at why clients and trainers sometimes try to tire the dog out before a lesson, and when that helps or hurts. Then, we weigh arousal, clarity, and quality of reps, and we talk about warm ups, decompression, and sensible resets.
We also touch on session design, neutral exposures, and how to set criteria that the dog can actually meet. Sometimes you need a little exercise to take the edge off. Sometimes you need freshness, focus, and fuel in the tank. Choosing well is the craft.
To keep spirits high, we finish with a few side notes and celebrate Step Brothers as one of the greatest films ever made. Boats and Hoes does not make it into the training plan, but it does make us laugh.

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