Three Types of Puppy Calmness

This Blog May Include Affiliate Links Which Pay A Commission On Eligible Purchases.

Calmness is a trait that's immensely desirable, especially in our furry friends. Yet, it's not a monolithic attribute, especially when it comes to our puppies. From my personal experience, calmness in puppies can be broadly categorized into three types - each surfacing at different times and requiring unique approaches. Let's delve into these three different types of calmness in puppies.

True Calmness

True Calmness is an absolute state of tranquility you'll find your puppy in, typically when they're lounging on a comfortable spot - be it a cozy bed, a comfy sofa, or the fresh grass in your garden. They might be watching the world go by or taking a nap, completely content with simply being and doing nothing. It's a state of pure bliss, of serene satisfaction with the present moment.

Focus Calmness

Focus Calmness is a different ballgame altogether. It's when your puppy is asked to sit or lay still on the floor, either right next to you or on a bed, attentively watching your actions and eagerly waiting for your engagement. This calmness is largely a product of obedience training exercises like "wait" and "stay". It means your puppy is calm because they're following your instructions, demonstrating their trust in you and eagerness to interact.

Active Calmness

Active Calmness is quite an intriguing state of calmness. It's when your puppy is engaged in an activity that doesn't excite them too much. Such activities could include chewing on a toy, delightfully licking frozen peanut butter out of a Kong, or sniffing around in the grass for treats. These activities not only keep them busy but also help maintain a low arousal state. Providing such enriching activities is key to promoting active calmness in your puppy.

In essence, understanding these different types of calmness can enhance our approach to training and nurturing our puppies. It's about appreciating their varied states of tranquility and engaging with them in ways that foster these states. So, the next time you see your puppy in one of these states of calmness, you'll know just how to respond and what to do to prolong those peaceful moments.