09/04/2026
Not every repetition needs to end with a dog looking aggressive.
Sometimes the most important thing we’re looking for is much simpler:
Will the dog stay in the picture when something doesn’t make sense?
Here we’re introducing Knox to what we call the Boogeyman Drill. The tarp changes the picture—movement, sound and something unfamiliar that he has to process.
At this point, Knox doesn’t really understand that there is a threat associated with the tarp. And that’s okay.
Watch what he does instead.
He stays engaged.
He investigates.
He doesn’t completely disengage from the problem.
That’s the behavior we’re interested in right now.
So when Knox stands his ground and remains willing to deal with the picture, we give him an opportunity to transition into prey and reward that confidence.
We’re not trying to manufacture aggression.
We’re allowing the dog to learn that when something becomes uncertain, moving forward and staying engaged is a productive answer.
As his understanding develops, the picture can become clearer and the pressure can become more meaningful. Eventually we’re interested in whether the dog recognizes a genuine social threat and is willing to respond without needing equipment to create the behavior.
But you don’t have to rush to that point.
First build the dog that doesn’t leave when the picture gets uncomfortable. Then teach him what the picture means.
Knox is still figuring this one out—and that’s exactly why we train.
Forged for Purpose. Driven by Instinct.
