More than a down-stay
Teach emotional settling, not rigid obedience
The Protocol for Relaxation was developed by veterinary behaviourist Dr. Karen Overall. The exercises reinforce calm behaviour while the handler moves, makes sounds, changes position, or adds other manageable distractions. The goal is a dog who can remain genuinely comfortable, not one who is merely holding still.
Short and successful
Work below the point of struggle
- Use small, high-value rewards and a calm delivery.
- Choose a quiet starting environment and a comfortable mat or resting place.
- Break difficult tasks into smaller pieces rather than repeating failure.
- Do not push, pull, loom over, or wave food at the dog.
- Finish on an easy success and keep sessions enjoyable.
The written plan is a guide, not a race
Repeat a day or simplify an exercise when needed. Progress depends on the dog remaining able to eat, think, and recover.
Observe carefully
Look for a softer body, not only a position
Relaxation may include slower breathing, a loose face, resting a hip, blinking, a lowered head, or choosing to lie down. Panting when it is not hot, scanning, startle responses, a tightly closed mouth, or repeated attempts to leave may mean the task is too difficult.
Structured practice
Use the printable 15-day workbook
The Jollytails workbook keeps the whole program in one PDF, with a separate worksheet and notes space for every day.