Recognizing and Dealing with Displacement Behavior

What to listen for:

In this episode of K9 Detection Collaborative our hosts Robin Greubel, Stacy Barnett and Crystal Wing explore the intricate world of displacement behaviors in dogs. They kick off by discussing recognizing these behaviors, which often arise from stress, frustration, or internal conflict in our canine companions. Our hosts share practical insights and anecdotes to help you identify and address these signals, ensuring a more harmonious training environment for both you and your dog.

The Dames of Detection also draw parallels between displacement behaviors in humans and dogs, revealing how stress and overwhelming situations can lead to unexpected coping mechanisms. By sharing personal experiences and relating them to similar behaviors in dogs, like scavenging, lip licking, pacing, and grass snatching, they highlight the importance of recognizing these signs as indicators of stress or pressure. Listen in as they discuss the impact of handler expectations and share valuable tips for managing stress in training scenarios, especially when working with high-energy dogs in demanding environments.

Our hosts also tackle the complexities of trigger stacking and the importance of understanding canine arousal levels. They emphasize the significance of balancing a dog's stress and arousal to foster effective teamwork. Through discussions on trigger stacking, displacement behaviors, and the need for flexible training strategies, they provide guidance on creating positive associations and respecting individual canine needs.

Key Topics:

• Recognizing and Defining Displacement Behaviors (00:00)
• Examples of Displacement Behaviors in Dogs (05:49)
• Displacement Behaviors in Search and Rescue Dogs (09:08)
• Understanding Trigger Stacking and Displacement Behaviors (21:18)
• Handling Displacement Behaviors in Training (36:27)
• Trigger Stacking and Accumulated Stress (37:54)
• Building Resiliency and Confidence in Dogs (38:13)
• Recognizing and Addressing Displacement Behaviors in Different Contexts (43:27)
• Balancing Stress and Resiliency in Training (47:16)
• Practical Tips for Handling Displacement Behaviors (49:42)
• Takeaways (50:01)

Resources:

• On Talking Terms with Dogs: Calming Signals (book)
• FENZI Camp
• Crystal in Wisconsin

We want to hear from you:

• Check out the K9 Detection Collaborative FB page and comment on the episode post!
• K9Sensus Foundation can be found on Facebook and Instagram. We have a Trainer’s Group on Facebook!
• Scentsabilities Nosework is also on Facebook. Here is a Facebook group you should join!
• Crystal Wing K9 Coach can be found here at CB K9 and here at Evolution Working Dog Club. Also, check out her Functional Obedience Class here.
• You can follow us for notifications of upcoming episodes, find us at k9detectioncollaborative.com