Recently Joined

[Jasen Sargent]

Hi, I recently purchased the course access. I needed an inventory of ideas on how to keep my new puppy mentally exercised, which I heard may be just as tiring to a dog as physical exercise. And so I went ahead and bought it. I also come from using Garret Wings DIYK9 courses and online videos for training information. He is what you call a balanced trainer, where he will be 90% positive reinforcement and 10% pressure on the dog for when there are no treats or maybe when there are distractions present that are stronger than the lure of treats. Whether or not you all approve of such methods, what I hope to gain from here is learning how to keep my new dog mentally stimulated, and not just sit, down and stay. Which are good but may not be enough for certain high energy breeds. 

[Adrienne Farricelli]

Hello and welcome to the forums,

You’re absolutely right that mental exercise can be just as fatiguing (and often more regulating) than physical exercise, especially for young, high-energy dogs. One of the main goals of this program is to expand an owner’s “toolbox” well beyond sit, down, and stay, and to show how cognitive work, problem-solving, impulse control, and choice-based activities can be incorporated into daily life.

Regarding training philosophies, the approach here is grounded in learning theory and evidence-based, force-free methods. The emphasis is on teaching skills in a way that promotes emotional regulation, resilience, and clarity for the dog, rather than relying on pressure when distractions increase. In practice, many dog parents find that once behaviors are well taught and reinforced in varied contexts, food becomes just one of many possible reinforcers rather than a limitation.

That said, the course is not about debating training labels. The goal is giving you practical, applicable strategies for mental stimulation, enrichment, and skill development that can be used with any breed or mix. You’ll find a wide range of activities designed to challenge dogs cognitively while also supporting calmness and self-control, not just energy expenditure.

I’m glad you’re here, and I think you’ll find the material aligns well with your goal of raising a mentally satisfied, adaptable dog. Please don’t hesitate to reach out in the forums as you start applying the exercises to your puppy’s daily routine.

Happy training!

Adrienne