The Gunshy Fix Program

Step 1: Set the Right Environment

Play the lessons in a quiet, comfortable, familiar space, such as a crate, kennel, or familiar room in your home. The dog should already be relaxed before the session begins.

Do not use the program during stressful situations, active play, or moments of excitement. Calm environments produce calm results.

If you are unable to supervise continuously, allowing the program to play in a calm, familiar environment is still effective.

Step 2: Start at the Beginning

Always begin with Lesson One. The first tracks contains calming music only, with no triggering sounds. This step is critical for creating a positive association with the program. Once dogs seems calm and is responding well to the the 1st Track or Lesson,  only then move to the Second Lesson and so on. 

Do not skip ahead in the order of lessons, even if the sound seems quiet or insignificant. Only move ahead when the dog is exhibiting a calm and happy behavior. 

Step 3: Pair With Calm, Positive Experiences

Whenever possible, pair the audio lessons with relaxed, positive states such as: • Mealtime • Chewing a bone or treat • Calm affection • Rest or downtime

Avoid pairing sound exposure with correction or pressure.

Step 4: Short, Consistent Sessions

Run sessions daily or a minimum of 4–5 times per week. Play the entire track you are working on and repeat it as many times as necessary before advancing.

Do not move forward in the lessons until the dog seems calm and undisturbed. When dogs seems good with the lesson, and is not nervous then move forward to the next lesson. 

Being consistent will help produce the best results. 

Step 5: Progress Slowly and Intentionally

Each lesson increases sound exposure gradually. Advance only when the dog shows no signs of stress, including: • Freezing or tension • Avoidance or leaving the area • Excessive alertness, panting, or shaking

If stress appears, return to the previous track (lesson) and remain there until calm behavior returns.

Step 6: Transition to Real-World Exposure

Once your dog is comfortable working through the program indoors, you can begin transitioning to outdoor or real-world environments where the fear originally developed.

When the time is right, slowly reintroduce actual gunfire at a distance while the program is playing simultaneously near and around your dog. Your dog should already be completely comfortable with the gunshots from the program at a high volume—ideally close to the sound level of a real shotgun. Always start at a volume your dog can comfortably handle and gradually increase it as your dog remains happy, relaxed, and normal.

Take your speaker outside and play the program while your dog is retrieving, going for a walk, working in the field, or simply hanging out. If you notice any signs of stress, hesitation, or avoidance, slow the process down and continue working at your dog’s pace.

When introducing live gunfire, begin at a distance of at least 200 yards, with the firearm pointed away from the dog. The dog should be engaged in an activity it already enjoys to keep its focus positive and relaxed. This may include eating, playing with a ball, retrieving a bumper, a dead game bird or live clip-winged pigeon.—gradually move closer as long as the dog remains confident and relaxed. Eventually, you should be able to shoot around your dog with no visual or behavioral signs of fear. At this point, the brain has been retrained to associate gunfire with calmness and comfort.

If the dog shows any hesitation, concern, or nervous behavior, increase the distance immediately. Progress should always be based on the dog’s comfort level—not a timeline.

Over time—whether that takes several days, a week, or longer—gradually decrease the distance as long as the dog remains calm and confident.

The goal is to eventually shoot near the dog with no visible signs of stress or fear. At this point, the dog’s brain has been retrained to associate gunfire with calm, positive experiences rather than anxiety.

If your dog has developed a visual fear of the firearm itself, begin by allowing the gun to be visible but inactive while continuing to play the program. As your dog becomes more relaxed, you can carry the shotgun without firing it while the Gunshy Fix lesson is playing. Once your dog consistently shows calm, confident body language, you can begin reintroducing live gunfire at a safe distance—gradually working closer over time.

Patience is key. Progress should always be guided by your dog’s comfort level, not a set timeline.

Results & Expectations

Progress requires patience and consistency. When used correctly, many dogs regain confidence around sounds that once caused fear or stress. Some dogs also develop improved tolerance to other unfamiliar noises as an added benefit. The Gunshy Fix program is designed to be simple, structured, and effective, giving dog owners a reliable, professional tool to help their dogs feel calm and confident again.