That's New
Optimism • Confidence • Emotional Regulation • Flexibility • Independence
Description
That’s New is a gentle, structured way to introduce your dog to a single unfamiliar object without overwhelm. It helps nervous, sensitive, or easily startled dogs build confidence with new items — especially those that move, make noise, or have the potential to feel threatening. Unlike Novelty Party, which focuses on multiple items and free exploration, That’s New is about slow, intentional, step-by-step exposure to one new object at a time.
How to Play
1. Prepare the Environment
Choose a time when your dog is calm rather than energised or overtired.
Place the new object (for example, the vacuum cleaner) in the room turned off and still. Allow your dog to notice it from a distance.
2. Reward Curiosity, Never Lure
Let your dog choose whether to approach.
Reinforce any sign of bravery or curiosity — a look, a sniff, a step forward.
Drop food away from the object every so often to release pressure and prevent them feeling trapped.
3. Add Very Small Movement
Once your dog is comfortable with the still object, gently move it a few centimetres without turning it on.
Reward for staying calm or showing interest.
Keep sessions very short — around a minute.
4. Introduce Sound From a Distance
Place the object at a safe distance.
Turn it on briefly (a few seconds), then turn it off.
Reward your dog for any sign of calm interest or choosing to stay regulated.
Gradually increase duration and reduce the distance over several sessions.
5. Build Desensitisation Slowly
Repeat lots of short, positive exposures.
Stay calm and relaxed to signal safety — your emotional tone matters.
Your dog should always be free to move away.
6. Add Light Activity Around the Object
Once your dog is coping well with noise and movement, you can:
play a gentle game nearby
practise calm behaviours
reward for checking in with you
Never move the object towards your dog or chase them with it.
7. Reinforce Calmness Over Time
Continue rewarding calm behaviour around the object in everyday life.
Keep interactions predictable and avoid sudden loud movements that may set your dog back.
Why it Matters
Dogs who find novelty overwhelming need slow, intentional, single-item introductions to grow confidence. That’s Newprevents flood-and-cope patterns by breaking the process into small steps, allowing your dog to choose how close they get and how quickly they progress. This builds emotional resilience, optimism, and trust in you as a safe guide.
Tips for Success
Always start with the object still and silent.
Reinforce brave choices, never lure towards the object.
Keep your tone and movements neutral.
Progress only when your dog’s body language says they’re ready.
Practise this before Novelty Party if your dog is easily overwhelmed.
End while your dog is still regulated and confident.