What should handlers do when their dog shows signs of stress during training?

When a dog shows signs of stress during training, it is crucial for the handler to take a break and assess the situation. Recognizing signs of stress, such as excessive panting, yawning, lip licking, or avoidance behaviors, indicates that the dog may be overwhelmed or not in the right mindset to learn.

By pausing the training session, the handler can evaluate the cause of the stress. This assessment may involve considering environmental factors, the dog’s physical condition, or the appropriateness of the training task itself. A break allows the dog to relax and decompress, which can help restore their focus and enthusiasm for training when it resumes. This approach prioritizes the dog's well-being and fosters a positive training environment, improving long-term learning outcomes.

Increasing the training duration, continuing aggressively, or ignoring the behavior could exacerbate the stress or lead to negative experiences for the dog, ultimately hindering their progress and damaging the handler-dog bond. Thus, taking a break and reassessing is the most effective and compassionate response to a stressed canine during training.