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The Tellington TTouch Method: What Is It?

By Cuteness Team
published: March 28, 2019 - updated: September 6, 2022 • 2 min. read
tellington ttouch on a dog

The Tellington TTouch (not a typo) method focuses on healing, positive animal training, and communication. In particular, this method helps people relate to animals compassionately to help develop a deeper connection. The method was developed by Linda Tellington-Jones, Ph.D. (Hon) four decades ago. Since inception, the Tellington TTouch method has helped rehabilitate wildlife, zoo animals, guide dogs, and more.

woman touching cat's neck

What is the Tellington TTouch Method?

The method is based on circular movements of fingers and hands over the entire body of a companion animal with the goal of activating cellular intelligence. You don’t need to understand the animal’s anatomy to practice the Tellington TTouch method. Instead, the method relies on a combination of specific touches, movement exercises, and lifts aimed at relieving tension and increase body awareness.

The method is also known to alleviate fearful reactions of animals that don’t like being handled, as well as allowing the animals to learn new, improved reactions to replace the bad ones. For example, fearful or aggressive dogs learn new ways to deal with situations.

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Tellington TTouch Uses

The method is gentle and positive allowing Tellington TTouch to be used by trainers, breeders, veterinarians, and pet owners for any number of behavioral and health issues, including the following:

  • Anxiety, excitability, and general nervousness.
  • Chewing on inappropriate items such as shoes, wood furniture, walls, etc.
  • Assisting in recovery from surgery or illness.
  • Car sickness.
  • Pulling on the leash.
  • Enhancing the quality of life, especially for older pets who may have age-related difficulties with mobility or psychological challenges.
  • Excessive barking.
  • Jumping up on people.
  • Aggressive behavior or reactivity.
  • Fearful and shy dogs, for example, fear biters.
  • Due to the emphasis on body touches, it can increase coordination, focus, accepting equipment (as in guide or service dogs), adaptability, confidence, self-control, and distraction.

Certified TTouch Practitioners are found across the globe and if you’re interested in learning more about Tellington TTouch or acquiring the services of a practitioner, check out the Practitioner Directory.

While the effectiveness of the Tellington TTouch method has been proven over the past four decades, but may not be for everyone or their pet. Always keep what’s best for your pet in mind when seeking treatment options and purchase dog insurance to ensure you can afford the best care.

The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical diagnosis, condition, or treatment options.

This article is provided by Cuteness—the go to destination for passionate pet parents. Cuteness has answers to all of your health, training, and behavior questions – as well as the cutest, funniest, and most inspiring pet stories from all over the world.

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By Cuteness Team

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