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Free Work: A Gentle Approach to Building Confidence & Well-being
What is Free Work?
Free Work is a low-pressure, enrichment-based approach that allows dogs to explore their environment at their own pace—without commands, expectations, or direction. It involves carefully setting up a space with different textures, surfaces, and objects, encouraging dogs to move, sniff, and engage in ways that naturally support their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
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Developed through years of observation and study, Free Work is particularly beneficial for dogs who struggle with anxiety, stress, reactivity, or sensory sensitivities. It’s also a valuable tool for improving body awareness, confidence, and relaxation.
Is Free Work Right for Your Dog?
Free Work is suitable for dogs of all ages, breeds, and backgrounds, but it can be especially beneficial for:
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Anxious or reactive dogs who struggle to feel safe in their environment.
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High-energy dogs who need an outlet to slow down and focus.
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Puppies learning about their world and developing confidence in new surroundings.
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Rescue dogs adjusting to a new home or recovering from a difficult past.
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Senior dogs or those with injuries who need low-impact movement and a gentle approach.
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Free Work isn’t just about keeping dogs busy—it’s about helping them truly relax, connect with their environment, and move in ways that support both their physical and emotional well-being.
How Can Free Work Help You & Your Dog?
✅ Encourages Relaxation & Well-being – Free Work provides a safe space for dogs to explore, engage with their environment, and experience true relaxation—something many anxious or over-aroused dogs struggle with. When dogs feel safe and calm, they can process their surroundings more effectively.
✅ Teaches Body Awareness & Movement Confidence – Different textures and surfaces help dogs improve their body awareness, coordination, and confidence in movement, which is especially beneficial for dogs recovering from injury or with mobility challenges.
✅ Reduces Stress & Overarousal – Many behaviour challenges are rooted in sensory overwhelm. Free Work allows dogs to move at their own pace, helping to lower stress and increase their ability to process the world around them.
✅ A Window into Your Dog’s Needs – By observing how your dog interacts with different surfaces, objects, and environments, you’ll gain valuable insights into their comfort levels, movement patterns, and emotional state. Many caregivers discover subtle signs of physical discomfort or stress they hadn’t noticed before.
✅ Stronger Bond & Communication – Free Work deepens the connection between dogs and their caregivers. By learning to observe without directing, you gain a better understanding of your dog’s needs, preferences, and behaviours.
✅ Supports a Holistic Approach – Free Work helps identify potential physical discomfort, sensory sensitivities, or areas where your dog may need additional support, such as vet care, bodywork, or dietary changes.
See Free Work in Action
Curious about how Free Work can benefit your dog?
Check out our Free Work video playlist on YouTube to see
real sessions in action and learn more about the activity!
How to book Free Work
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A one-time personalised session to introduce your dog to Free Work. Perfect for trying it out or addressing a specific concern.
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A series of tailored sessions at a discounted rate, designed to support long-term well-being and progress. Ideal for dogs needing ongoing confidence-building, rehabilitation, or structured enrichment.
