Why should we train our dogs to cooperate?

Sometimes, we need our dogs to do things that they may not be interested in, or may be apprehensive of. Sometimes we don’t understand why they would respond in the way they do (“Fluffy loves to swim in lakes but hides at bath time”, for example).
Unfortunately, sometimes regular parts of husbandry, grooming, or pet care can cause our dogs great concern, and can become difficult, if not impossible, for owners, Groomers, or Veterinary staff to complete; dogs may growl, show teeth, or try to bite to tell us that they are not comfortable.
Relatively recent advances in evidence-based dog training provide another option: train our dogs to cooperate! We can train our dogs to sit quietly and calmly for nail trimming, to jump in the bath, to look forward to wearing their harness or head halter, and to sit still for brushing. Some dogs can even learn to accept vaccinations or have blood drawn with little or no restraint! This process is commonly known as cooperative care.
When we train cooperation, these tasks become easier for owners or caregivers (no scratches from nails, sore backs from wrestling wet dogs in the tub, etc…), our dogs feel they can trust us, and we have stronger bond and relationship with them.

Check out Bright Hound’s social media for many examples of cooperative care!