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Gentling is the act of mildly restraining a puppy in an effort
to teach him to be comfortable in submissive positions with you
in charge.
There are several levels of restraint. Do not attempt to move too
quickly. Your puppy should be relaxed at one level before moving
on to the next. Once he has mastered all levels, incorporate handling
exercises during gentling.
Level One - Elevation
Lift the puppy under his arms facing you slightly below eye level.
He should relax, look you in the eyes, and then look away. Hold
him in this position for 5 seconds and then put him down. Most puppies
will not struggle during elevation exercises. Reward a cooperating
puppy with verbal praise.
Level Two - Puppy Hugs
After your puppy is comfortable with being "elevated",
he is ready to be hugged. Hugging is a human expression of affection.
In the dog's world, to hug is to demonstrate dominance. To hug your
puppy, simply hold him firmly against your body for 5 seconds. Reward
only a relaxed, calm puppy with praise.
Level Three - Cradling
Hold your puppy in your arms as you would a baby. In this position
it is normal for him to struggle mildly, and then relax. Once the
puppy has relaxed for 5 seconds, reward him with verbal praise and
then release him.
Level Four - Side Restraint
Gently place your puppy on his side. Use gentle, firm pressure to
keep him in position. Once he has relaxed and his head is on the
ground, praise and release him. Do not wait until he has all four
feet on the ground to praise him, as the reward should come immediately
after he has become relaxed.
Level Five - Belly Up
This is the most submissive posture you will ask your puppy to perform.
Your puppy is most vulnerable in this position, so it is important
that you do not violate his trust in you. From the side position,
roll your puppy onto his back with all four feet toward the sky.
As with previous restraints, it is natural for him to struggle at
first. He should eventually become calm. After 5 seconds, praise
and release him.
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