Our dogs live in a human-centered world, and for many, it can be challenging to understand how they’re expected to “behave” in different situations.
Dog Trainer Jay Jack, the founder of GRC Dogsports, also created an innovative concept called “Windows,” which helps create clarity for dogs by breaking down behaviors into distinct contexts.
This approach starts with identifying the different “windows” and teaching the dog what each one means. Once the dog understands these contexts, they can be cued to transition between them as needed.
This theory has four distinct windows, each representing a specific context where the dog can learn what is expected of them in terms of behavior.
1. Calm Window (Rest and Relaxation)
Imagine a dog who struggles to settle. By teaching them the “Calm Window,” they learn that during certain times—like when their owner is watching TV or working—they’re expected to relax on a bed or in a crate. This provides the dog with clarity about when they can disengage from their surroundings and rest.
How It Helps:
- Reduces anxiety or frustration by helping the dog learn to relax.
- Encourages a calm default behavior in chaotic environments.
2. Play Window (Structured Playtime)
Dogs who have high levels of enjoyment for tug, fetch or other forms of high arousal play can sometimes struggle with over-arousal in other contexts. With the “Play Window,” they learn that play is appropriate only when cued, such as when their owner picks up the tug toy and says, “Get it!” Once the play ends, the dog is cued to transition out of this window and into another (e.g., Calm Window).
How It Helps:
- Prevents over-arousal from bleeding into non-play scenarios.
- Strengthens impulse control and reinforces clear transitions.
3. Work Window (Focused Engagement)
Dogs doing training sessions or working in service roles benefit from the “Work Window.” For instance, a service dog learns that when wearing their vest, they’re in the Work Window, and behaviors like ignoring distractions and staying focused are expected.
How It Helps:
- Builds reliability in high-stakes or task-focused situations.
- Teaches dogs how to “switch off” work mode once cued.
4. Freedom Window (Free Exploration)
For dogs who tend to exhibit hyperactive behaviors, the “Freedom Window” can be a game-changer. By teaching them that off-leash time, sniffing, or casual walks are appropriate when cued into this window, they know when it’s okay to explore freely versus when they need to follow stricter expectations.
How It Helps:
- Provides balance by allowing dogs to express natural behaviors.
- Reduces confusion about when it’s appropriate to “just be a dog.”
