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Training Tips

Shake-Off

A full-body shake that may occur after tension, restraint, play, grooming, or a stressful interaction.

Common Signs

  • Full-Body Shake
  • Head-to-Tail Movement
  • Occurs After Contact or Tension

Important Distinction

A shake-off does not prove that a dog was severely stressed. It is one useful clue that should be interpreted with the events before and after it.

What Can Help

Notice what preceded the shake, allow a brief pause, and use the information to adjust intensity, handling, distance, or session length.

When To Get Professional Help

Get help when shake-offs appear repeatedly with avoidance, freezing, handling sensitivity, pain signs, or an inability to settle.

Related Dog Psychology

ArousalArousal is a dog's level of mental and physical activation. It ranges from deep rest to intense excitement or stress and affects…OverarousalOverarousal occurs when a dog's level of emotional and physical activation becomes so high that self-control, attention, and learning begin to break…StressStress is the body's physical and emotional response to challenge, uncertainty, excitement, discomfort, or change. It may be brief and manageable or…RecoveryRecovery is the process of returning toward a balanced emotional and physical state after excitement, stress, fear, or frustration. The speed and…DecompressionDecompression is intentional time and activity that allow a dog to recover from stress, pressure, or overstimulation. It often includes rest, predictable…

Related Dog Training

SettleSettle teaches the dog to relax in a location without maintaining a rigid position. The goal is a softer emotional and physical…Distance ManagementDistance management uses physical space to keep the dog within a workable emotional range. Increasing or controlling distance can prevent escalation and…Pattern TrainingPattern training uses a simple, repeatable sequence of movement and reinforcement to create predictability. Familiar patterns can help the dog reconnect, move…ManagementManagement changes the environment to prevent unwanted behavior from being rehearsed while training is underway. It includes barriers, leashes, distance, schedules, storage,…

Related Training Option

Behavioral Consultation

Every dog brings a different history, environment, and reason for the behavior. This service can help identify the right next step and build a plan around the dog in front of you.

Learn About Behavioral Consultation

This library provides general education, not an assessment of an individual dog. Sudden behavior changes, pain-related behavior, or an immediate safety concern should be discussed with an appropriate veterinary or behavior professional.

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Training That Lasts
Training That Lasts is a relationship-based dog training company founded by Tyler "The Trainer" Morrick and based in Bristol, Illinois, serving the Oswego and Yorkville communities. The company's mission is encapsulated in its motto: "Redefining Relationships"—moving beyond basic obedience commands to foster deep, lasting connections between dogs and their handlers. Led by Tyler Morrick, who brings over 13 years of canine experience (including work with a remarkable therapy Chihuahua) and formal certification from Waubonsee Community College, the Training That Lasts team believes that a well-trained dog begins with a well-equipped owner. Their philosophy centers on teaching both the dog and the handler simultaneously, ensuring that training continues long after the session ends.

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