29/12/2025
This time of year always stirs up reflections of the past year and wondering what the new year will bring. I always try and take away something good and bad from the year to either work on or grow form.
So here is a little brain dump on things I have learned this year as a dog trainer.
1. I'm pretty good at it. I probably have imposter syndrome most of the time, but when chatting to other professionals who I have worked with the dog then complimenting me. I do have to remind myself I have been doing this almost 10 years now, always learning, and I do know a thing or two of what I am on about!
2. Always adapt. I have been working with one dog over the year on loose lead. We had tried almost everything but the dog was really struggling. I actually switched to a flexi-lead on the dog, which is something I would never do, and it worked.
3. Kindness will always win. It may take a little longer, and require a little more knowledge. But the relationship I have with my dogs and yours will never be compromised. Especially knowing we are in our final years with my two, I want to cherish and love the time we have together and for them to love being around me to!
4. Just keep going. This year has had it ups and downs like many! And I often see this in the dogs I work with. Some weeks they are on fire, and some are just meh... we are showing up for it. Some goals were not achieved this year, some things I thought would be booked up in an instant flopped, and some I had to abandon altogether. But we shall see what 2026 brings and ride the waves one more time!
Grateful again for each and every person who supports me either in person, online, my friends and family 💛
Thank you.
Rachel
