Train Your Dog’s “Thinking Side” – A Simple Guide for Everyday Owners
- Maria Cecilia Martinez
- Nov 12
- 4 min read
Hi from Southernwind K9!
Hey there! If you’ve got a dog who tends to hijack walks, jump at noises, or lock onto triggers before you can say “leave it,” you’re not alone.
We’ve worked with tons of dogs at Southernwind Kennels who’ve been there—and I want you to know it is possible for them to switch from reacting to thinking.
This blog will walk you through what “thinking side” means, why it matters, and how anyone (yes, you) can teach it—without complicated jargon or fancy gear.
What’s the “thinking side”?
Most dogs live in reaction mode: see something → feel something → do something.
The “thinking side” is when they can pause, scan, choose-: see something → think → act.
In science terms, this is called executive function—skills like impulse control, holding a little bit of information in their brain, and switching gears when need be.
“Train Your Dog’s Thinking Side”
Why it matters for reactive dogs
When your dog reacts too fast or too hard, it usually means their thinking side isn’t being used—or it’s overwhelmed.
By helping them slow down and make choices instead of reacting, you’ll see big changes: less tension, fewer surprises, more calm walks.
And yes — studies show dogs can improve in self-control and regulation when given the right tools.
“Train Your Dog’s Thinking Side” 3 simple steps to start today
Here are three easy actions you can begin right now. No special equipment. Just you, your dog, and a little consistency.
1. Set up a safe zone and calm time
Choose a comfortable spot at home (mat, rug, dog bed) that becomes your dog’s “chill station.”
Each day, encourage your dog to go there for 2 to 5 minutes, treat reward, gentle praise, and then let them rest.
Aim for 2–3 short sessions per day. This builds a habit of settling rather than reacting.
2. Play the “Look At That” game on walks
On a walk, when you notice a trigger (dog, bike, etc.) but your dog is still loose and calm: mark (“Yes!”) and treat, then keep walking.
If you see the trigger closer and your dog stays calm → treat more. If your dog stiffens or lunges → increase your distance, wait for calm, then treat.
This teaches “hey, when something interesting appears, I can look at it, check in with you, and then choose what happens next.”
3. Try a little scent work or problem solving at home
Hide 3-5 treats under cups (or in boxes) while your dog watches, then release them to find.
Keep it easy at first, stop while they’re still confident.
This gives your dog a job, uses their brain, and practices thinking—and rewards it.
How this builds the thinking side
Your dog learns the “chill station” = self-calm and choice.
The “Look At That” game = noticing triggers but waiting, choosing, checking in with you.
The scent/problem game = brainwork, focus, switching tasks instead of reacting.
Together, you’re giving your dog pause → process → act instead of see → react.
When you’re ready to level up
Once the above feel comfortable (your dog settles more easily, looks at you when triggers appear), you can go deeper:
Increase trigger difficulty (closer distance, more movement) but keep the rule: if the dog stays calm → treat; if tension → back away.
Expand scent/work games: outdoors, more hidden, bigger area.
Add shaping behaviors: teach your dog to offer something (sit, turn away, go to mat) when triggered, then treat.
Document progress: keep a simple log of “trigger, distance, calm? yes/no, reward given” so you see patterns.
Now lets share a few FAQs
Is this just for “serious problems”?
Nope. Even dogs who just pull, lunge, or over-excite can benefit. The same idea: build thinking, reduce reacting.
Does this replace training obedience?
No — this supports obedience by adding choice and control. You still want “sit,” “down,” “look,” etc. But this helps your dog decide before doing.
How long until I see results?
Every dog is different. You might notice small changes in 2–3 weeks (more checking in, calmer walks), and bigger shifts over months. The key: consistency.
Do I need a trainer?
If your dog’s reactivity includes biting, high-level aggression, or severe fear, yes — a certified behaviorist/trainer.
For moderate reactivity or “just wants to think more,” you can start at home with these steps.
Wrap-up
Teaching your dog’s thinking side is less about doing more and more—it’s about teaching them to pause, giving them choices, and rewarding calm, thoughtful behavior.
Start with the three simple steps today, stay consistent, and you’ll see your dog shift from autopilot to mindful partner on walks and at home.
If you liked this, stay tuned!
Thanks for reading, and as always — here’s to more calm, clear choices and a happier dog-human team. — Cecilia, Southernwind K9
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