The Importance of Live Camera Feeds for Training

In this article, I’ll discuss the importance of having a live camera feed on our dog during training. Understanding a dog’s threshold is crucial, and a live camera feed is essential for monitoring it effectively.
The goal is not to record the session and watch it later. While you can certainly record, a live feed allows you to respond immediately. If your dog starts panicking and you’re only watching a replay, it’s too late to intervene. Understanding your dog's body language is key, and a live feed helps us identify when they are approaching their threshold.
For example, one client dog, Slinky, had a very clear pattern: she would get off the couch and go to the door. Often, she was fine at the door, but when she wasn’t, she would start circling, pacing more frantically, and eventually crying or howling. By the time her guardians noticed this on a recorded video, it was already too late to address her distress.
With a live camera feed, we can break this cycle. If Slinky is comfortable on the couch for five minutes, we can encourage her to stay there by "capturing" that moment and returning, rather than allowing her to get off and start her anxious behaviors. This requires careful observation and a nuanced approach, as every dog has different signs of discomfort.
The good news is you don’t need to rush out and buy an expensive camera. There are so many different brands, and it can be overwhelming to choose. Instead, consider free options like Zoom, which allows for a 40-minute call without charge. Similar platforms include Skype, Google Meets, and Microsoft Teams. You could even use a Facebook live (just make sure you set the viewers to 'Only Me'!).
Set up your laptop or tablet where your dog usually hangs out Then, join the call on your mobile device so you can monitor your dog’s behavior. Just remember to turn off the audio on your phone to avoid causing your dog any distress by letting them hear you outside.
Placement of the camera is another important consideration. It may be easy or challenging depending on your home’s layout. For dogs that hang out by the door, I’ve had clients tape old devices at dog height to capture their facial expressions. This way, you can monitor signs of distress, such as a furrowed brow, yawning, lip licking, tension or wide 'whale' eyes.
In some cases, clients have creatively secured devices in various n different room, to keep an eye on their dog’s behavior throughout the house. However, be cautious if you place a camera too high, as it may not capture your dog clearly—especially with black dogs, whose expressions can be harder to read.
Regarding interactive cameras which allow you to talk to your dog or dispense treats, I advise caution. Some dogs may panic upon hearing a disembodied voice, which could exacerbate their anxiety. If you do choose to use one, ensure you’re present during the first couple of interactions to avoid any negative associations. But also remember that talking to your dog through the camera and perhaps telling them to be quiet may have the opposite effect AND if they ignore you, you don't have any opportunity to do anything about it since you are not there.
Ultimately, there are many camera options out there. If you’re part of my Facebook group, Separation Anxiety in Dogs Decoded, feel free to ask for camera recommendations.