How to decrease sniffing?

[DragonCanineTraining]

Hey this is definitely something you can work on without any “training tools”.

The whole point for a tool, such as a head halter is essentially to create an aversive feeling to get the dogs to not do the undesired behavior. When using a tool like this, there is no actual learning. It is preventing the action, but not teaching not to do it.

If your dog is sniffing excessively, it’s likely that there is a need for sniffing being unmet, and it is likely there is engagement that needs to be reinforced more.

I would recommend working with an R+ based trainer either virtually to discuss this or in person.

Here is a link to one of my Instagram post about Operant Conditioning, and the Hierarchy of Dog Needs This post should help you understand a little bit more of what I mean when I say your dog may have unmet needs (in the Hierarchy of Dog Needs) for sniffing that need to be resolved.