How Can Treat/Retreat Help the Socially Shy Dog?

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What is Treat/Retreat?

Treat/Retreat was developed by Suzanne Clothier back in the early 1990s. For more than 30 years, Treat/Retreat has helped shy, fearful & socially awkward dogs around the world.

This powerfully effective technique is used to help socially shy dogs master the intricacies of feeling comfortable interacting with and being around people. 

Treat/Retreat is a dog-centric technique that is force-free, and one that does not use negative reinforcement. Instead, respect for the dog’s boundaries, arousal and abilities are combined with nuanced observation and engagement of SEEKING to help build the dog’s skills. 

Using thin slices, Treat/Retreat helps the dog develop skills in comfortable ways that are readily generalized. This technique is useful in class settings as well as private lessons, in-home work, and in shelter/rescues.

Treat/Retreat works through multiple layers of social interactions:

  • Approaching
  • Moving
  • Interactions
  • Groups
  • Postures & gestures
  • Humans as training equipment
  • Orchestrated greetings


Treat/Retreat is a must-have technique for any professional trainer working with shy, fearful or socially awkward dogs. From the anxious to the overly aroused dogs, you can help improve the quality of dogs' lives and build their skills.

This course is a Master Class for those interested in becoming certified in Treat/Retreat.

What people are saying . . .

5 star rating

A superb, joyful and powerful learning experience

Sarah Whiffen

The structure and content of this course are superb. As you work through the steps, you can feel the level of thought and attention to detail that has gone into making sure you have what you need to progress, and I was very aware that the creators...

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The structure and content of this course are superb. As you work through the steps, you can feel the level of thought and attention to detail that has gone into making sure you have what you need to progress, and I was very aware that the creators really cared about my learning experience being a happy one. The text and video materials are first rate and the tutors are exceptional; delivering support and feedback with expertise, humour, kindness and patience. The technique itself is a game-changer and I feel privileged to have learned such a powerful and flexible tool to help families with dogs who struggle around people. Seeing the changes in the dogs as they learn and progress is humbling and joyful. It changes lives! Suzanne's wealth of knowledge and experience and her generosity as a teacher are inspiring and heart warming. The warmth and humour in her delivery is captivating and just great fun as well! And the well-being of dog is always, always at the centre of everything, just as it should be. I am delighted to recommend this course to any trainer who wants to learn a powerful and effective technique they can trust and which makes perfect sense to dogs.

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5 star rating

Treat Retreat Certification Course

Cindy Knowlton

Watching the dogs transform as they discover skills they never knew they had -- phenomenal! If you're in the business of helping dogs, you need this course.

Watching the dogs transform as they discover skills they never knew they had -- phenomenal! If you're in the business of helping dogs, you need this course.

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5 star rating

Treat-Retreat Certification Course

Bobbi Burgmann

Theses introduction subjects have been enlightening. I particularly enjoy the discussion topics and opportunities to get Suzanne's comments and guidance.

Theses introduction subjects have been enlightening. I particularly enjoy the discussion topics and opportunities to get Suzanne's comments and guidance.

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5 star rating

Positive Method

Brooke Dickhart

This course in just the first module has proven that when we put the ownership on the learner (dog), we have a positive outcome. I’ve learned so much about the “seeking” mode too. I can’t wait to continue the learnings!

This course in just the first module has proven that when we put the ownership on the learner (dog), we have a positive outcome. I’ve learned so much about the “seeking” mode too. I can’t wait to continue the learnings!

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5 star rating

Fantastic!

Christine Fox

I especially like the information that concentrates on the importance of understanding the SEEK instinct. This is SO GOOD!

I especially like the information that concentrates on the importance of understanding the SEEK instinct. This is SO GOOD!

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5 star rating

Enjoyed this course immensely!

Shelly Korobanik

Great course and learning!

Great course and learning!

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What this course includes

  • Written and video lessons.

  • Extensive videos of dogs working through all stages of Treat-Retreat.

  • Access to Suzanne and group discussions through an online community and regular instructor led Zoom sessions throughout the course and case studies.

  • Certification to those who successfully complete three case studies.

  • For those successfully completing the course, CEUs are available for these organizations: IAABC - 32 CEUs; PPAB - 36 CEUs; CCPDT - 30 CEUs (trainers)

Watch the Treat/Retreat FAQ

Course curriculum

    1. An Introduction to Treat Retreat

    2. Treat/Retreat FAQ

      FREE PREVIEW

    3. Meet Your Instructors

    4. How to use this course

    5. Working with Suzanne Clothier as an Instructor

    6. Goals & Expectations

    7. Q&A Sessions

    1. Treat/Retreat Workbook

    2. Overview

    3. What Treat-Retreat is Not

    4. What Doesn't Work

    5. The Evolution of Treat-Retreat

    6. The Treat-Retreat Webinar

    7. Generalization of Behavior

    8. Terminology

    9. The SEEKING system

    10. Treat-Retreat Overview Discussion Group

    11. QUIZ - Treat-Retreat Overview

    12. Treat/Retreat - Learned Helplessness Revisited

    1. What the Dog's Body Tells You

    2. The Geometry of Canine Body Language

    3. Will Treat-Retreat Help This Dog?

    4. Assessing the Individual Dog for Treat-Retreat

    5. Reading Body Language Discussion Group

    6. Reading Body Language Module Quiz

    1. Stages & Progress

    2. Safe & Unsafe Zones

    3. Set Up & Equipment

    4. Your Treat-Retreat Skills

    5. Handlers

    6. Helpers

    7. Bonus Material: HELP THE HANDLER, Help the Dog

    8. Getting Ready Dicussion Group

    1. Selecting Treats

    2. Using Treats

    3. Using Treats for Placement and to Guide

    4. Working Parallel

    5. Using Treats Effectively Discussion Group

    6. QUIZ Using Treats

    1. Goals for APPROACH

    2. Finding the Start

    3. Getting on the Dog's Radar

    4. Giving Dog Chance to Set Himself

    5. Starting Treat-Retreat Discussion Group

    6. QUIZ - Starting Treat-Retreat

About this course

  • $1,499.00
  • 166 lessons

BENEFITS for the Professional

There are many inaccurate (and potentially harmful) versions of Treat/Retreat out there, put forth by trainers who lack the knowledge and skill. This course moves you into a deep understanding of the complete Treat/Retreat program.

  • CERTIFICATION

    Teach Treat/Retreat Classes & Private Sessions

    There is a huge need for techniques that focus on the socially shy or fearful dog. Learning how to structure and teach Treat/Retreat classes or one-on-one private sessions sets you apart from other trainers. This course helps you develop great depth of knowledge and skill in applying Treat/Retreat in nuanced ways, and puts a wealth of new tools in your training tool kit. Truly mastering Treat/Retreat is key to helping the shy, fearful & socially awkward dogs in your care. Students who successfully complete the course and the certification requirement of 3 case studies will be listed at Suzanne Clothier's website as a CTRI (Certified Treat/Retreat Instructor).

Pricing options

Scholarships available - check the FAQ below for details.

Are you with a 501c3 Rescue or Shelter?

We offer a 20% non-profit discount! Reach out to find out how to take advantage.

E-mail Now!

FAQ

  • Is this course self-paced or scheduled?

    This course will begin January 15, 2023. Content will be dripped out at a reasonable pace that assumes professionals will spend 2-4 hours per week with the material. You may opt to move at a slower pace, of course. Instructor support via scheduled bi-weekly Q&A sessions cover the first 6 months. After that, monthly Q&As are scheduled through October, with the expectation that students will be finishing their assignments and submitting their case studies for certification. You have access to the course for one full year.

  • How are students supported in this course?

    Suzanne has a reputation as a generous teacher who provides strong support for all her students. For the first 6 months, you will have access to Suzanne via regularly scheduled bi-weekly Zoom meetings, as well as online discussions.

  • How long do I have access to the course materials?

    You will have a full year of access to the materials. Of course, the course information that you download is yours to keep.

  • I'm not a professional but I like helping shy/fearful dogs. Is this course right for me?

    This course is intended for dog training professionals. You may wish to check out our Treat-Retreat webinar for basic information that will help non-professionals get started with a shy or fearful dog.

  • How much does the course cost?

    The Treat-Retreat Certification Course is $1495.00. You may spread your payments out with 3 easy monthly payments of $515.00. We do offer needs-based scholarship (see below). The cost of this course is quickly recouped by trainers offering approved Treat/Retreat classes or sessions. Example: 6 dogs in a Treat/Retreat class @ $250 per dog for six weeks = $1500.00

  • What is your refund policy?

    Once you have enrolled, there are no refunds. Please be sure that the course for which you are registering is suitable for your needs and that you have the understanding or experience to make good use of the materials. Also be sure that you can commit to the time required to complete the course.

  • What are the technical requirements of the course?

    To complete the course you must have the ability to record and upload videos to either YouTube or Vimeo, the ability to create, download and open Microsoft Word documents and the ability to open and read PDFs and fillable PDFs.

  • What are the case study requirements?

    You will need the ability to work with dogs and people to complete the case study requirements (these do not have to be clients, but they have to be appropriate for the case study requirements). For Treat-Retreat there are THREE case studies required. In these, you need to exhibit your skill in working through all progressions of Treat-Retreat. This does not mean every dog has to move through all progressions. Please remember, Treat-Retreat often requires a lot of space, and for the dog to be off-leash. If you do not have access to a secure, open space such as a training room or a fenced in yard, you may not be able to complete the requirements of this course. If you have any concerns on being able to meet these requirements, please e-mail us at [email protected] prior to signing up.

  • Do you offer scholarships?

    We are working trainers, and small business owners, so we understand what that means in real life. We are glad to offer a limited number of needs-based Treat/Retreat scholarship under these terms: (1) One scholarship per person per year. (2) You verify that you understand the Treat/Retreat scholarship is supported by Suzanne Clothier & Alissa Mosier personally, and offered on the honor system. You will not utilize a scholarship unless you have significant need. (3) The Shelter Staff scholarship is a 50% discount, so you are responsible for paying 1/2 of the full registration fee. The Needs Based Scholarship is a 25% discount. (4) Treat/Retreat scholarship recipients may not register for any additional courses until they have successfully completed the Treat/Retreat course. Webinars or memberships are not included in that enrollment restriction. Please visit https://suzanneclothier.com/scholarship-application/ for a scholarship application.

Before you register

Please read through the course requirements and make sure you are able to meet them BEFORE ENROLLING.

  • Ability to record videos

  • Ability to upload videos to either YouTube or Vimeo to share with instructors through links

  • Ability to create, download and open Word documents

  • Ability to open and read PDFs and fillable PDFs

  • Ability to work with dogs and people to complete the case study requirements (these do not have to be clients, but they have to be appropriate for the case study requirements)

  • For Treat/Retreat there are THREE case studies, and you must exhibit your ability to do all progressions of Treat/Retreat.

  • Please remember, Treat/Retreat often requires a lot of space, and for the dog to be off-leash. If you do not have access to a secure, open space such as a training room or a fenced in yard, you may not be able to complete the requirements of this course.

  • If you have any concerns on being able to meet these requirements, please e-mail us at [email protected] prior to signing up.

Pricing options

Non-profit discounts and some scholarships available. See details above!

Instructors

Suzanne Clothier

Senior Instructor

Suzanne Clothier has been working with animals professionally since 1977, with a deep, broadly varied background of experience including obedience training, agility, Search & Rescue, kennel management, and program development. She is well respected for her humane, effective Relationship Centered Training (RCT™) approach to dogs and the people that love them. She has taught on a broad range of topics throughout the world. Her tools and materials have been put to use in guide & service dog organizations, in animal assisted therapy, for every day pet owners, and by trainers, breeders, veterinarians, academics and in research. Her work has been presented in multiple international conferences. Her book, Bones Would Rain from the Sky: Deepening Our Relationships With Dogs (Warner, 2002) has received wide spread praise from every corner of the dog world. A German Shepherd breeder, her 11 generations of Hawks Hunt German Shepherds have been successful as competitive performance sports, as well as in Search & Rescue, herding, therapy work and of course as beloved companions. Suzanne lives on an upstate New York with her incredibly tolerant husband John Rice.

Alissa Mosier

Instructor/Curriculum Development

Alissa Mosier has been working in the dog rescue community for over ten years, as a foster, consultant and current board member for Peppertree Rescue, Inc. Four years ago she made her passion her profession and officially donned the title of dog trainer. While some may recognize Alissa as the "Webinar Fairy" for Suzanne Clothier, her skills extend far beyond the keyboard. With a BS in Television/Radio/Film from Syracuse University, a MS in Childhood Education from the College of St. Rose, and a CPDT-KA through the The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers® Alissa has an ecclectic set of talents that she is happy to share. For the last two years Alissa has been working alongside Suzanne as Program & Course Development Director , as well as behind the camera, to help bring many RCT projects to life, including Treat-Retreat. Working in the Capital Region of New York Alissa's professional focus ranges from classes for puppies and adolescents to senior dogs (just ask her about Low Impact Agility!). But her heart remains with rescue dogs, and she lists Treat-Retreat as one of the must have skills for those in rescue, or trainers working in rescue. Alissa not only employs Treat-Retreat with her clients (and her own personal dog) she was behind the camera for most of the video in this course, and spent many, many hours editing it. She will serve as your tour guide to the material, offering insight and support while Suzanne brings the expertise.