Relaxation Protocol Trainer
Teaching Real Relaxation Skills for a Calmer, Happier Dog
Based on Dr. Karen Overall's groundbreaking protocol, modernized with Pet Harmony's positive, science-based approach. Help your dog develop genuine coping skills for real-world situations.
This is NOT About Forcing Stillness
The Relaxation Protocol is not about making your dog stay still in one spot. It's about teaching your dog genuine relaxation and coping techniques they can use in real-life situations. We're building emotional resilience, not just physical compliance. Your dog learns to choose calm because it feels good, not because they're told to.
What is the Relaxation Protocol?
Building Neural Pathways
Through gradual, positive exposure to various stimuli while in a relaxed state, your dog's brain learns to associate these experiences with calm feelings rather than stress.
Emotional Resilience
Your dog develops the ability to stay calm despite distractions, movements, and sounds - skills that transfer to everyday life situations like vet visits, guests arriving, or walks.
Foundation for Behavior Work
For dogs with reactivity, anxiety, or fear issues, this protocol creates a solid foundation of calm that makes other training more effective and lasting.
Strengthening Your Bond
The quiet, positive time together builds trust and communication between you and your dog. They learn you're a source of safety and good things.
Who Benefits from This Training?
Anxious Dogs
Dogs who struggle with general anxiety or specific fears
Reactive Dogs
Dogs who overreact to triggers like other dogs, people, or sounds
High-Energy Dogs
Dogs who need help learning to settle and self-regulate
Puppies
Building good habits and emotional regulation from the start
New Rescues
Helping adopted dogs decompress and feel safe
All Dogs!
Every dog benefits from learning relaxation skills
🎒 What You'll Need
Essential Items
Comfortable Mat or Bed
A designated relaxation spot your dog already likes
High-Value Treats
Small, soft treats your dog loves (100+ per session)
Timer or Phone
To track duration tasks accurately
Quiet Space
Low-distraction area to start training
Helpful Extras
Training Journal
Track progress and note what works best
Treat Pouch
Easy access to rewards during sessions
Book or Activity
Something for you during longer duration tasks
Props (Later Days)
Doorbell sounds, umbrellas, hats for advanced tasks
📋 Key Training Principles
Mark & Reward Calm, Not Position
We reward relaxation signals (soft eyes, loose body, sighing) not just staying in place. Your dog can shift position as long as they stay relaxed.
Go at Your Dog's Pace
If your dog is struggling, you're moving too fast. It's okay to repeat days, break tasks into smaller pieces, or take breaks. There's no timeline.
End on Success
Always finish sessions while your dog is still relaxed and successful. Short, positive sessions beat long, frustrating ones every time.
High Rate of Reinforcement
Especially early on, reward frequently! You might go through 100+ treats per session. This keeps the experience positive and builds strong associations.
Watch for Stress Signals
Lip licking, yawning, turning away, whale eye, or getting up means dial it back. We want genuine relaxation, not a dog who's just tolerating.