Stress Matters: Impact of Fear and Anxiety on Learning

The process of learning is affected by many different factors, including the emotional state of the individual. By reading the body language of dogs, we can better understand their emotional state and their ability to respond to training exercises. This presentation will cover many of the body language signals that dogs are likely to show when stressed, fearful or anxious. Perhaps even more importantly, information will be included about how this emotional state directly impacts the process of learning and the effect on a plan or the animal’s response to specific exercises. Strategies such as making adjustments to reinforcement value, refining aspects of the stimulus gradient during desensitization and counterconditioning exercises, altering performance expectations, and setting realistic criteria for success will be covered.