What "threshold" means, and how to find your dog's
3 min read
Trainers use the word threshold for the point where a dog goes from "I see it" to "I can't cope". Below threshold, a dog can learn. Above it, it can only react.
The three zones
- Easy: relaxed, sniffing, checking in with you.
- Learning: notices the trigger, but can still eat and look away. This is where training works.
- Too close: staring, stiff, barking, lunging, refusing food. Nothing useful happens here.
How to find it
- Go somewhere you can see the trigger from far away.
- Offer treats while your dog watches. Move a few steps closer at a time.
- Watch for a hard stare, a stiff body, or treats being refused.
- Back up until your dog eats softly again. Estimate that distance in feet: that's where you work.
It changes day to day
A bad night's sleep, a scary moment earlier, or a busy street all shrink your dog's tolerance. Check the distance at the start of each session and adjust.
Want a plan for your dog?
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