Flooding in Dog Assessments at Free Play Facilities

Written By Dewald Coetzee

Implications, Consequences, and the Risk of False Interpretations

I’m sure you’ve seen it when taking your pup for their first day at a new dog daycare or dog boarding facility. You’re excited, imagining how much your pet will enjoy their new kennel facility, hoping it will ease the guilt of leaving them at home. You arrive, they take your dog, and immediately place them in a room filled with other clients’ dogs. The scene turns into what you’d imagine a mosh pit to feel like—every dog rushing to sniff (or taste) the newbie.

Despite placing your trust in the provider—someone you believe should know what they are doing—you still get that uneasy feeling in the pit of your stomach. But surely, they know best, right?

Your gut is right. What you observed is a common (but not optimal) practice called flooding, which often results in an escalation of reactive behaviors (Horwitz and Landsberg, 2016). More concerning is the onset of learned helplessness (LH), a psychological condition where an animal becomes passive, disengaged, or withdrawn after prolonged exposure to uncontrollable stressors (Seligman and Maier, 1967).

Most dog daycare providers likely don’t even realize they are using flooding. But research shows that flooding can have long-term psychological and behavioral consequences (Deldalle and Gaunet, 2014).

Understanding Flooding and Its Application in Dog Assessments

Flooding is a classical conditioning technique that involves exposing an individual to a feared stimulus at full intensity without the opportunity for escape (Overall, 2013). The goal is to extinguish the fear response through prolonged exposure. However, while flooding has been used to treat phobias in humans, its application in dog behavior assessments is highly problematic (Blackwell, Twells, Seawright and Casey, 2008).

In free play facilities, flooding occurs when a dog is suddenly placed in a group of unfamiliar dogs with no way to leave. Research shows that dogs exposed to social stressors in uncontrolled environments display significantly higher cortisol levels, indicating acute distress (Beerda et al., 1998).

Instead of helping dogs adjust, flooding can increase fear-based aggression, trigger long-term anxiety, and result in behavioral shutdown (McGreevy and Boakes, 2007). A 2019 study found that 72% of dogs subjected to forced socialization displayed increased stress-related behaviors in future interactions (Cameron, Stafford and Ruffman, 2019).

Instead of gradual socialization, flooding overwhelms a dog’s coping mechanisms, often leading to misdiagnosed behavioral responses (Mariti et al., 2012).

The Risk of Learned Helplessness (LH)

Learned helplessness (LH) is a psychological state that develops after repeated exposure to uncontrollable stressors (Seligman and Maier, 1967). When an animal experiences events where its actions have no impact on the outcome, it learns to become passive and give up trying to escape or avoid the aversive stimulus, stops trying to avoid distress, even when escape becomes possible (Maier and Seligman, 1976).

In a dog evaluation setting, flooding can easily lead to LH (Friedman, 2009). The dog, overwhelmed by the intensity of the situation and unable to escape, may stop trying to cope and instead exhibit passive behaviours like freezing, avoidance, or submissive postures (Beerda et al., 1998). These behaviours are often misinterpreted as calmness or acceptance, leading to inaccurate assessments of the dog's temperament (Mariti et al., 2012). The dog isn't calm; it's simply given up. A landmark study on dogs demonstrated that when exposed to uncontrollable shocks, dogs ceased attempting to escape, even when given a clear exit route

The consequences of LH can be long-lasting and detrimental. Dogs experiencing LH may exhibit increased anxiety, aggression, and difficulty forming healthy social bonds in the future (Seksel, 2008). They may also show a reduced ability to learn, and adapt to new situations, LH is not just psychological—it leads to physiological changes as well. Chronic stress suppresses immune function, making dogs more susceptible to illness (McMillan, 2017). The emotional scars of flooding and LH can significantly impact a dog's quality of life, making them more prone to fear-related behaviours and less able to cope with everyday stressors (Deldalle and Gaunet, 2014).

How Flooding Affects Evaluations and What Is Actually Being Observed

Dog daycare and assessment facilities often rely on observations of play behaviour and social interactions to evaluate a dog's suitability for group play. However, flooding can significantly distort these observations. Dogs experiencing flooding may not display overt signs of distress like barking or growling. Instead, they often exhibit more subtle behaviours that can be easily missed or misinterpreted by untrained observers. These subtle signs include:

  • Freezing: The dog becomes immobile, indicating intense fear or stress (Beerda et al., 1998). This is a common sign of overwhelm, where the dog is essentially "frozen" in fear. They may appear statue-like and unresponsive to their surroundings.

  • Yawning and Lip Licking: These are often misinterpreted as signs of relaxation but are actually common indicators of stress and anxiety (Mariti et al., 2012). They are displacement behaviours, meaning they are seemingly out-of-context actions that are actually indicators of underlying emotional arousal. The dog may be trying to self-soothe or distract itself from the stressful situation.

  • Avoidance: The dog attempts to move away from other dogs or seeks to hide (Cameron, Stafford and Ruffman, 2019). This can involve turning away, moving to the periphery of the group, or attempting to find an escape route. They may try to make themselves smaller or less noticeable.

  • Submissive Postures: While submissive behaviours can be appropriate in some social contexts, they can also indicate fear and a desire to avoid conflict. A dog displaying excessive submissive posturing may be overwhelmed and trying to appease other dogs. This can include lowered body posture, tucked tail, flattened ears, and avoiding eye contact. They may roll onto their back or urinate submissively (Horwitz and Landsberg, 2016).

These subtle cues are often overlooked, leading to the misinterpretation of a stressed dog as a calm and well-adjusted one. This can have serious consequences, as the dog may be placed in a group play environment where it is likely to experience further stress and potentially develop behavioural problems. The dog's true emotional state is masked, and they are set up for failure. This can lead to a cycle of negative experiences, further reinforcing their fear and anxiety.

The Unintended Use of Flooding by Dog Care Providers

A particularly concerning aspect of flooding is that many dog care providers may be using it unintentionally. They may believe they are simply "socializing" dogs by exposing them to a group of other dogs, without realizing the potential harm. This lack of awareness stems from insufficient training in canine behaviour and a failure to recognize the subtle signs of stress and distress. Many providers may rely on outdated or anecdotal information about dog behaviour, rather than on current scientific understanding. They may believe that "throwing them in the deep end" is the best way to socialize a dog, without understanding the potential for emotional harm.

Providers operating under time constraints or prioritizing quantity over quality may resort to flooding as a quick and easy way to assess dogs. They may not understand the psychological impact of this approach and may misinterpret signs of learned helplessness as positive behaviour. This highlights the urgent need for better education and training in canine behaviour for dog care professionals. Certification programs and continuing education opportunities are essential for improving the standards of care in the dog care industry. Providers should be required to demonstrate a thorough understanding of canine communication, stress signals, and the principles of positive reinforcement training before being allowed to assess dogs for group play. This would help to ensure that dogs are being evaluated in a humane and ethical manner, and that their emotional well-being is being prioritized.

How Flooding Affects Evaluations and Leads to Misinterpretations

Many dog daycares rely on observational assessments to determine a dog’s social compatibility. However, if the assessment is based on a flooded response, it leads to false conclusions about temperament (Blackwell et al., 2008).

The Danger of Misreading Behavior:

  • A frozen dog is often labeled as "well-adjusted," when in reality, they are emotionally shut down (McMillan, 2017).

  • A dog avoiding other dogs may be misinterpreted as "submissive" rather than fearful (Cameron, Stafford and Ruffman, 2019).

  • Panting, yawning, and lip licking—common stress signs—are often overlooked by untrained observers (Beerda et al., 1998).

A 2018 study found that 45% of pet professionals misinterpreted key canine stress signals, leading to inappropriate handling of dogs in group settings (Deldalle and Gaunet, 2014).

The Problem of Misinterpretation by the Untrained Eye

Accurate interpretation of canine body language is crucial for assessing a dog's emotional state. Unfortunately, untrained individuals often lack the skills to recognize the subtle cues that indicate stress, fear, or learned helplessness. This can lead to serious misinterpretations and inappropriate placement of dogs in group play environments. Even seemingly obvious behaviours can be misinterpreted without proper training. For example, a dog that is panting might simply be hot, or it could be a sign of anxiety. Similarly, a dog that is licking its lips might be thirsty, or it could be displaying a displacement behaviour indicating stress. Context is key, and untrained observers may not be able to accurately assess the situation.

Even experienced professionals can sometimes miss subtle signs of distress. Canine communication is complex, and a dog's response to stress can vary depending on its individual temperament and past experiences. A thorough understanding of canine body language, including facial expressions, ear and tail position, and overall body tension, is essential for accurate assessment. Facial expressions, such as whale eye (where the whites of the eyes are visible), a tight mouth, or a furrowed brow, can provide valuable insights into a dog's emotional state. Ear and tail position can also be informative, with tucked tails and flattened ears often indicating fear or anxiety. Changes in overall body tension, such as a stiff posture or trembling, can also be subtle indicators of stress.

However, it's not just about recognizing individual signals; it's also about understanding the context in which these signals are displayed. A dog that is yawning and licking its lips while playing with other dogs might simply be tired, whereas a dog that is displaying these behaviours while being approached by an unfamiliar dog is more likely to be stressed. Furthermore, some dogs are simply more stoic than others and may not display overt signs of distress even when they are feeling anxious. This makes it even more challenging to accurately assess a dog's emotional state. Some dogs may "freeze" and become almost unresponsive when overwhelmed, making it seem like they are calm when they are actually experiencing intense fear.

Therefore, proper training and experience are essential for accurately interpreting canine body language. Dog care providers should be required to undergo training in canine behaviour and communication to ensure they have the skills necessary to assess dogs for group play. They should also be aware of the limitations of their own abilities and should consult with a certified professional dog trainer or veterinary behaviourist if they are unsure about a dog's behaviour. The ability to accurately read and respond to a dog's communication signals is paramount to ensuring their safety and well-being in any social setting. A misinterpretation can have serious consequences for the dog, potentially leading to further emotional trauma or even aggression.

The Need for Ethical and Evidence-Based Assessment Methods

Given the risks associated with flooding and the challenges in accurately interpreting canine behaviour, dog care providers must adopt more ethical and scientifically sound assessment methods (AVSAB, 2015). Positive reinforcement and desensitization techniques offer a more humane and effective approach to evaluating a dog's social skills (Deldalle and Gaunet, 2014). These methods involve gradually exposing the dog to potentially stressful stimuli in a controlled and positive manner, allowing the dog to build confidence and learn at its own pace. Desensitization involves pairing the feared stimulus with something positive, like treats or praise, to change the dog's emotional association. This process should be done slowly and carefully, ensuring that the dog remains comfortable and below its threshold for fear or anxiety.

Behavioural observation tools that focus on identifying early signs of stress and anxiety are also crucial. These tools can provide a more objective and accurate assessment of a dog's emotional state than relying solely on observations of play behaviour. For example, standardized behavioural tests can be used to assess a dog's reactions to different stimuli in a controlled environment. These tests can evaluate the dog's responses to things like unfamiliar people, loud noises, or novel objects. Furthermore, it is essential that dog care providers receive adequate training in canine behaviour and communication to ensure they can accurately interpret a dog's signals and avoid misinterpretations. This includes training in canine body language, stress signals, and the principles of positive reinforcement training. Continuing education is also important, as our understanding of canine behaviour is constantly evolving.

Ethical dog assessments should prioritize the dog's well-being and avoid putting them in situations where they are likely to experience significant stress or fear. This means creating a safe and supportive environment where the dog feels comfortable and can express its natural behaviours. It also means being able to recognize when a dog is becoming stressed and taking steps to de-escalate the situation. This might involve removing the dog from the play area, providing them with a quiet space to decompress, or simply reducing the intensity of the interaction.

Alternative Assessment Strategies

Instead of flooding, dog care providers should implement a more gradual and individualized approach to assessing dogs for group play. This might involve:

  • Individual Introductions: Introducing dogs one-on-one in a neutral environment before exposing them to a larger group. This allows dogs to engage in more natural greeting behaviours and reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed. The initial introductions should be brief and positive, allowing the dogs to sniff and interact at their own pace(Landsberg, Hunthausen and Ackerman, 2012).

  • Small Group Play Sessions: Starting with small play groups and gradually increasing the number of dogs as the dog becomes more comfortable. This allows dogs to acclimate to social interaction at their own pace. The play sessions should be supervised closely, and any signs of stress or aggression should be addressed immediately (Seksel, 2008).

  • Observation of Behaviour in Different Contexts: Observing the dog's behaviour in a variety of situations, such as during play, rest, and interactions with different types of dogs (Cameron, Stafford and Ruffman, 2019). This provides a more comprehensive picture of the dog's social skills and temperament. It's important to see how the dog interacts with both large and small dogs, as well as dogs of different ages and breeds.

  • Use of Questionnaires and Owner Input: Gathering information from the dog's owner about their dog's history, behaviour, and social preferences before even stepping foot on the premises. Owner input can provide valuable insights into the dog's personality and potential challenges. Owners can provide information about their dog's likes and dislikes, as well as any past experiences that might have impacted their social behaviour.

By using these alternative assessment strategies, dog care providers can gain a more accurate understanding of a dog's suitability for group play without resorting to harmful practices like flooding. This approach is more humane, more effective, and ultimately benefits both the dogs and the care providers.

The Role of Pet Owners

Pet owners also have a crucial role to play in advocating for their dogs' well-being. They should be informed about the risks of flooding and should ask potential dog care providers about their assessment methods. Owners should look for providers who prioritize positive reinforcement, gradual introductions, and careful observation of dog behaviour. They should also be wary of providers who use terms like "dominance" or "pack leader," as these concepts are often based on outdated and scientifically inaccurate information. Modern dog training and behaviour understanding emphasizes positive reinforcement and avoids the use of punishment or aversive methods.

Owners should also be proactive in educating themselves about canine body language and stress signals. This will allow them to better understand their own dog's behaviour and to recognize when their dog is feeling stressed or uncomfortable. If an owner observes their dog exhibiting signs of distress in a daycare or play group setting, they should advocate for their dog and remove them from the situation. Owners should be their dog's advocate and should not hesitate to speak up if they are concerned about their dog's well-being.

Conclusion

Flooding is a harmful and inappropriate practice for assessing dog behavior in free play facilities. The risk of inducing learned helplessness and misinterpreting subtle signs of distress is too significant. Ethical and responsible dog care providers should prioritize positive reinforcement, desensitization, and careful observation of canine body language (AVSAB, 2015).

By understanding the negative consequences of flooding and advocating for more humane approaches, pet owners can play a vital role in protecting the well-being of dogs in assessment and daycare settings.

The well-being of dogs depends on it—by working together, dog care professionals and pet owners can create a safer and more enriching environment for all dogs.

References

Dewald Coetzee
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