Paws and effect: The power of TTouch for dogs

Have you ever wondered if there's a gentle way to help your dog feel more relaxed, improve their behaviour, and enhance their overall health? The TTouch, or Tellington TTouch, might just be the answer you're looking for. Developed by Linda Tellington-Jones, this method involves a series of gentle, circular touches and movements applied to your dog's body. It's designed to benefit your dog in numerous ways while strengthening the bond between you and your furry friend.

What Exactly is TTouch?

The TTouch method is based on the idea that gentle, non-invasive touch can positively influence the nervous system, promoting relaxation and healing. But what does this mean for your dog? Below, expert Sarah Fisher explains all.

The many benefits of TTouch for dogs

1. Reduces stress and anxiety:

   • TTouch techniques are excellent for calming your dog's nervous system. Whether it's a trip to the vet, a thunderstorm, or fireworks, these gentle touches can help reduce your dog's stress and anxiety.

2. Improves behaviour:

   • If your dog struggles with excessive barking, chewing, aggression, or hyperactivity, TTouch might help. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, your dog can focus better and respond more positively to training.

3. Enhances physical health:

   • TTouch can improve circulation, reduce pain, and promote healing from injuries or surgery. The gentle movements release tension in muscles and improve overall body awareness and coordination.

4. Strengthens your bond:

   • Using TTouch with your dog enhances your relationship through positive physical interaction. It fosters trust and communication, making it easier to handle and care for your dog.

5. Promotes relaxation:

   • TTouch techniques can induce a state of relaxation, which is beneficial for your dog's overall wellbeing. A relaxed dog is generally healthier and happier.

6. Supports training and learning:

   • When your dog is calm and focused, they are more receptive to learning and training. TTouch can be a useful tool alongside other training methods, helping your dog respond better to commands and cues.

7. Helps with ageing and mobility issues:

   • For older dogs or those with mobility issues, TTouch can improve range of motion and reduce discomfort associated with arthritis or other age-related conditions.

Who can benefit from TTouch?

• Pet owners: You can use TTouch techniques to help manage your dog's stress and behaviour, and to build a closer bond with them.

• Animal trainers: Trainers can incorporate TTouch into their routines to enhance training outcomes and manage behavioural problems more effectively.

• Veterinarians and animal health professionals: These professionals might use TTouch as a complementary therapy to aid in treating various physical and behavioural issues.

• Shelters and rescue organisations: TTouch can be particularly useful in shelters and rescues to help calm and socialise dogs, making them more adoptable.

How to perform T-Touch on your dog

1. Circular touches:

   • The core technique involves making small, circular movements on your dog's body using your fingers and hands. These movements are done with gentle pressure and are designed to stimulate the nervous system and promote relaxation.

2. Lifts and slides:

   • Other techniques include lifts and slides, which involve gently lifting the skin or sliding your hands along the body to help release tension and improve circulation.

3. Wraps and bands:

   • Special wraps and bands can be used to provide gentle pressure around the body, enhancing body awareness and promoting relaxation.

TTouch is a holistic approach that considers the physical, emotional, and behavioural aspects of your dog's wellbeing. Its gentle and non-invasive nature makes it suitable for all dogs, regardless of age, breed, or size.

Please note that you should do your research on how to use TTouch appropriately before attempting on your dog.

Useful resources

1. Tellington TTouch UK Official Website: Tellington TTouch Training UK

2. Sarah Fisher’s Tilley Farm

3. Books on TTouch: Getting in TTouch with Your Dog: A Gentle Approach to Influencing Behavior, Health, and Performance by Linda Tellington-Jones

4. TTouch for Dogs YouTube Channel: Tellington TTouch Training YouTube Channel

5. TTouch Practitioners in the UK: Find a Certified Tellington TTouch Practitioner in the UK

6. TTouch Workshops and Events in the UK: Tellington TTouch UK Events and Workshops