Animal Behavior

The Power of Canine Connection script typography in blue-violet and purple
Building Relationships typography beside an illustration of a man wearing a purple sweater sitting beside a standing dog
Through the "Good" Technique typography in blue-violet and purple

By Eve Molzhon

Dog daycare environments are bustling hubs of activity where our canine friends engage in play, exercise and socialization. While dog daycare offers a fun and stimulating experience for dogs, the importance of building strong relationships within the daycare setting cannot be overstated.

One powerful and simple approach to build relationships and enhance these connections with our canine guests is the “good” technique. This is where dog handlers purposefully touch each dog three times, accompanied by positive reinforcement, therefore fostering a training relationship that benefits both parties and the overall playgroup dynamic.

“Good” with Three Touches
It’s not just a simple touch; it’s a solid but firm stroke down a dog’s back from their shoulder blade to their tail while saying the word “good.” So, for a shy dog, it’s giving them positive reinforcement to being touched. For the anxious dog, it’s getting them to be calm enough to receive the pet and positive affirmation. For the balanced dog, it’s a great reinforcer of good behavior.
Evolution for Shy and Anxious Dogs
With shy dogs, a fascinating transformation occurs over several days of practicing the “good” technique. These dogs progress from being hesitant recipients of touch to actively seeking out the positive interaction by effectively using the request for a pet as a form of communication.
dog with pet pattern explained with arrows
The Good Technique
It’s not just a simple touch; it’s a solid but firm stroke down a dog’s back from their shoulder blade to their tail while saying the word “good.”
In the case of anxious dogs, the withholding of the pet and the word “good” becomes a strategic tool, which should be employed until the dog displays more well-mannered behavior. This intricate dance of interaction and response reinforces the ongoing process of training and relationship-building between handlers and the dogs under their care.
Reinforcing Relationships in Dog Daycare Groups
The benefits of this technique extend beyond individual relationships to the dynamics within dog daycare groups. Dogs are social creatures, and their interactions within a group setting can greatly impact their overall experience. When handlers consistently apply the “good” technique to each dog in the playgroup, they contribute to a positive and harmonious environment. Reinforcing positive behavior through this technique can also help prevent and address potential conflicts within the group.
Utilizing “Good” for Recall
Once a dog is trained on this “good” methodology, it can also be used as a tool for recall. If there’s ever a time where you need to recall a dog and they’re not responding to their name, you can yell “Good!” and the dog will most likely look at the handler because they know that something positive is about to happen. Typically when a dog misbehaves, their owner is screaming “No!” at them, so they don’t pay attention to that negative word knowing that nothing good will happen if they return to the owner/handler. But if the handler uses “good,” most likely the dog will stop what they were doing, focus on the handler, and probably walk towards the handler because they want their positive reinforcement of a pet across the back.
illustration of woman bending down with chat bubble that reads Good!
By using this technique, dogs are more likely to respond positively to the guidance of their handlers, and the overall atmosphere of the daycare becomes one of cooperation and mutual respect.
By using this technique, dogs are more likely to respond positively to the guidance of their handlers, and the overall atmosphere of the daycare becomes one of cooperation and mutual respect.

In dog daycare, building relationships is at the heart of creating a positive and enriching experience for our canine companions. This “good” technique provides a simple yet powerful tool for dog handlers to establish strong connections with each dog in their care.

Through purposeful touches and positive reinforcement, this approach not only enhances individual relationships, but also contributes to a cohesive and well-behaved group dynamic within the daycare setting. As we prioritize building these bonds, we create a space where dogs feel secure, loved and ready to thrive.

Eve Molzhon is the creator and owner of Dog Handler Academy. Dog Handler Academy is a 100% online, automated employee training program designed specifically for dog daycares and boarding facilities. Our real-life daycare videos and online quizzes fast-track your new hires into understanding dog handling and care, saving you time and money. Courses cover basic and advanced dog handler skills, social cues and safety, client relations, and more. The mission of Dog Handler Academy is to provide employers training new hires with comprehensive material in a cost-efficient, consistent, and effective program. Our end goal is to create better handlers within our industry to ensure the proper care of animals.

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