Easing back in

And just like that, the holidays are over. We're past the start of January and reality is sinking in, All those well meaning new year resolutions may already be feeling tiring. That's because after the holidays, it’s common for both dogs and humans to feel a little unsettled. Routines shift, energy levels fluctuate, and nervous systems need time to settle back down from overstimulation. 

If things feel slower than you expected right now, or you feel more sluggish, be assured that nothing has gone wrong — this is a normal part of transition. In Winter time our bodies naturally want to rest more and things take a lot more energy. Here in Prince George we are also battling the elements, and some people are longing for the snow to go and for summer to be back. (I however, being from snow deprived England am enjoying all the snow!)

What about your dog? Are they feeling sensitive? Are they feeling lazy? Or are they rearing to go and you're struggling to keep up? 

No matter what may be going on with you or them, ethical, compassionate training can help. It doesn’t rush the recovery process. In fact, it can help you move towards goals in a natural way. It can take the pressure off and make things more stable. 

Starting slow is still a start, and a slow start can help ease you into a new routine of life and training after the holidays. Let's start this subject by discussing this next subheading:

Why Easing Back Matters

As I mentioned, over winter time and routine changes, our nervous system doesn’t switch back to normal overnight. The same is true of our dogs. Stress — even stress that motivates us — tends to stack up, and both humans and dogs need time to recover and recalibrate. If we don't give ourselves and our dogs some grace, problems happen. We're less able to cope, and then our dogs feed off that, we then feed off them and we get stuck in a vicious circle of not feeling safe and honestly, being self destructive. Frustration gives way to overwhelm and burnout rather than anything positive or restorative.

Learning happens best when bodies (and their intricate systems) feel safe, settled, and supported. When we rush recovery or expect immediate productivity, we’re often working against regulation rather than with it. Slowing down isn’t a setback, it’s part of creating stability. So, what can be done? Let's start with our four pawed furry friends.

Attention to Dogs 

You might notice changes with your dog at this time of year too. Some dogs feel more sensitive or can even be reactive after the holidays. Others seem sluggish, disengaged, or content to rest more. Some may feel recharged and ready to go, leaving guardians feeling like they can’t quite keep up. Whatever their behaviour may be, keep in mind that it isn't stubbornness or disobedience, it is communication. 

So, what is your dog telling you? Are they in need of decompressing activities to support their nervous and emotional systems? Or do they need more challenges to ease that gnawing unsettled ache inside?

All of these behavioural and emotional responses are valid. Just like us, dogs experience transitions differently, and their behaviour is often a reflection of how they are coping. As such, it can be an indicator of pain or discomfort, if they are acting a little off, there is always a reason why.

If your dog needs decompression, consider some of these activities:

• Slow, calm walks or sniffing adventures

• Interactive (but not intense) play that lets them burn off some nervous energy

• Chews or toys that allow them to self-soothe

• Quiet rest in a safe, soothing space

If they need slightly more engaging challenges to help redirect their energy, you can try:

• Familiar signals/cues or tricks revisited in short sessions - then challenge them if they want to learn more

• Challenging puzzle toys or food-dispensing games

• Good physical exercise that caters to their breed instincts

• Structured enrichment activities that provide mental stimulation

By observing your dog and responding thoughtfully, you actively help your dog regulate themselves and aid them in feeling safe. If you stay connected with them even during periods of change or uncertainty, that goes a long way in helping you and them to recover.

Small adjustments in how you structure their day can make a big difference. With a little creativity, you can turn everyday mundane moments into supportive opportunities and natural learning.

Easing back into training doesn’t mean stopping altogether — it simply means choosing gentle re-entry points. If you read my last blog, I suggested some goals to think of, (not too dissimilar from the pointers above) but I also placed an emphasis on not tackling things all at once. Breaking things down into smaller steps is a great strategy that helps reach bigger goals you set further down the road. 

Easing back into training may look like shorter training sessions, revisiting familiar skills instead of introducing new challenges, or focusing more on enrichment and decompression than structured learning. It can also mean lowering your expectations, observing more, and allowing rest to be productive. Walks may be slower. Progress may seem insignificant, but that doesn’t mean nothing is happening.

Conclusion

You’re not falling behind, because training your dog isn't a race. Taking time to address emotional needs isn't weakness. It's a necessity for you and your dog. Ethical, compassionate training values compassion and nervous system regulation over urgency. It also values long-term wellbeing over quick fixes.

In fact, when you make time for these important things, meeting your dogs needs physically and emotionally, negative or inappropriate behaviours can naturally decrease. 

So meet yourself — and your dog — where you are today, not where you think you should be. With patience, consistency, and compassion you will work together and enjoy a bond and training journey that is full of joy and unforgettable memories. 

Thoughtfully written by Becky Osborne. If you enjoyed this and would like to support me further you can:
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