My Journey With Movement Puzzles
Back in 2023, I signed up for a webinar delivered by Mari Valgma through the Fenzi Dog Sports Academy. It was called 'Discover how Movement Puzzles boost your dog's confidence'. I'd seen a little about them before then, but this was my first formal introduction. Not long after that, I went on to join the Movement Puzzles Academy and have continued as an active member ever since.
I had previously been introduced to Vito's game (by Susan Garrett), and like many other people thought that Movement Puzzles were based on that. It turns out I was wrong... In the webinar, Mari introduced us to the two bowl game and showed us how to get started with it. I do love a 'new' thing so immediately dived in with both dogs!
There are many things that I love about Movement Puzzles; they can be done in different size spaces, they work inside or out and can be done as quick sessions or long. There's so much flexibility in the exercises, and whatever version I do my dogs benefit. Ripley enjoyed the thinking, Peak learned about slowing down. Sometimes 🙈 A short Movement Puzzles session provides physical and mental stimulation, as well as providing proprioception.
Then there's the observation aspect - Movement Puzzles give me options for setups that allow me to observe different ways that my dogs move (both in the moment and once I review videos). For example, one of the exercises helped me to learn that Peak turns more tightly to the left than the right. That means that I can make adjustments to strengthen his right turns.
Movement Puzzles improved my dog training skills. They helped with my timing, mechanics and observations skills (as detailed above). They improved my relationship with my dogs, as done correctly they bring clarity to our training and dogs thrive with clarity.
I've taken part in monthly challenges through the academy, as well as attaining all three Movement Puzzles certificates with Ripley. Peak has his Level 1 certificate. I am in the Pro program as well, so continuing to expand my skills and knowledge. Most recently I joined the Reactivity program so that I have those exercise and activities available when I need them.
I truly believe that most dogs and guardians should have Movement Puzzles in their lives, and am fully supportive of Mari's mission to spread their use. If you want to find out more about my Movement Puzzles module (exclusively available in the Next Step Dog Club) then just click here.
This post was 100% written by me.
