My first question is what motivates the dog? For a dog with this profile, "not treat motivated" probably means he is too stressed/overwhelmed. All animals are motivated by food or else they'd starve to death. What other reinforcers can you use (social interaction, toy/play, access to a helper dog)?
The puzzle is how can you create a sense of safety and security with him? Can we start with a simple relax on a mat exercise in a safe room (I like to use Nan Arthur's relaxation or Suzanne Clothier's really real relaxation for most dogs to start)? In my experience, I've started with a simple relax on a mat exercise using food. Then I work on doing it in different locations using the same mat inside the home. Perhaps we eventually work on world watching from inside the house looking out the door. I've had success working on relax on a mat inside a car and then I can create a mobile safe zone. Then I can do some world watching from the safety of the car in outdoor environments. When the individual is ready, I might see if he is willing to explore a little but we'll return home or to the car if he panics. Then practice some more relaxation.
The goal is to help him gather new information about the environment from a safe zone. I'd try to start with something like this. If he is pancaking on the ground, then he is overwhelmed in that environment.
------------------------------
Ferdie Yau
Behavior Consultant
Ferdie Yau
NY
------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 04-03-2024 12:08 PM
From: Maddie's University
Subject: Building resilience in shelter dogs discussion (Camp Maddie: Behavior Edition Day 2)
Unanswered question from the chat:
"I have a dog that was surrendered due to his owner passing. he is shut down, pancakes when trying to be walked, and is not treat motivated. He is now in foster, but still same issues. He is now on meds...what else can we do for him?"
------------------------------
Maddie's University
Maddie's Fund
------------------------------