The Beauty of a Silent Conversation...
It's often said that a walk should be "their walk," allowing the dog to lead and explore. While I understand the importance of giving dogs autonomy, I also believe there's something truly special about the silent conversation between a dog and their owner during a walk.
I've had the privilege of working with a particular owner and her highly reactive dog for almost two years. When she recently brought home a new puppy, we decided to take a different approach to ensure the puppy received adequate exposure while feeling safe. This included encouraging a strong bond between the puppy and her owner.
One of the most beautiful things I've witnessed is the mutual understanding between this puppy and her owner. The way they engage with each other, with the puppy frequently checking in with her owner, is a testament to the strength of their relationship. This isn't a cued behavior; it's genuine engagement. Watching them interact is a truly moving experience.
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Accepting accountability and reflecting on our actions can be challenging, especially in educational settings. Unfortunately, some dog training programs resort to blaming owners for not knowing better. This approach not only fails to empower learners but also creates a toxic environment.
As an educator, I've learned that teaching is a skill that develops over time. It requires adaptability, effective communication, and a willingness to listen. Breaking down complex information into digestible bits is crucial. Moreover, recognizing that each dog and owner presents unique challenges, I advocate for tailored approaches.
Student-centered learning: Focus on the individual's needs and circumstances.
Differentiation: Adapt teaching methods to accommodate diverse learning styles and requirements.
Empathy and understanding: Foster a supportive environment by acknowledging the challenges and perspectives of learners.
Flexibility and adaptability: Be willing to adjust approaches as needed to ensure effective learning.
In my board and train program, I incorporate virtual coaching with the owner's dog. This personalized approach acknowledges the distinct needs and circumstances of each team. By doing so, I empower owners to implement training effectively into their lifestyle.
Effective education in dog training requires a student-centered, adaptable, and empathetic approach. By recognizing the unique challenges of each dog and owner, we can create a positive learning environment that promotes success and growth.
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As you strive for excellence with your dog, it's essential to recognize the progress you've made, no matter how small it may seem. One common pitfall is constantly raising the bar, making it challenging to acknowledge achievements along the way.
A crucial aspect of successful dog training is willingness to revisit foundational skills when needed. While it may be tempting to push forward, building a strong foundation is often key to long-term success. Embracing this mindset allows you and your dog to grow together.
Avoid Comparison and Focus on Your Journey
Social media platforms showcase the highlight reels of others, making it easy to get caught up in comparison. Criticism and curated content can create unrealistic expectations. Remember, it's okay to:
Set the bar down
Take a step back
Re-evaluate your progress
Acknowledge how far you've come
As a self-proclaimed people-pleasing perfectionist, I understand the pressure to perform. Even I must remind myself that my dogs have off days and limitations.
Celebrate Your Achievements
Next time you scroll through social media and see an impressive video, remember that you and your dog are achieving amazing things too.
Focus on your unique journey, and don't be afraid to celebrate small victories along the way. By embracing your progress and acknowledging your efforts, you'll build a stronger bond with your dog and cultivate a more positive training experience.
Our time with our dogs is fleeting, and it's essential we make the most of it. Training is crucial to creating lifelong memories with our canine companions. Many people bring dogs into their lives to share experiences and have fun together.
To achieve this, we must invest time and effort into training our dogs to thrive in a world not designed for them. Amidst our busy lives, it's easy to put off training, but the truth is, we can't afford not to.
Dogs are eager to please and behave well when given the proper guidance. Fortunately, various training resources are available, including:
Virtual coaching
Private in-person coaching
Group lessons
Board and train programs
Inexpensive online memberships
Don't miss out on the opportunity to create a stronger bond with your dog. Explore the numerous training options available and start building a lifetime of memories with your dog.
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As my husband and I reflected on my dog training business this morning, I realized there's so much I wish I knew when I first started. While I've shared some of those lessons in this video, I continue to learn and grow each year.
One important lesson I've learned is that having a large following doesn't necessarily translate to a successful business or extensive experience. However, I'm grateful for the community that has formed around my work.
I've also learned that investing in expensive marketing strategies isn't always the best approach. Instead, I've found that taking the time to learn and implement my own marketing strategies has been much more effective.
The life of a dog trainer can be a lonely one, and I've come to realize the importance of having a support network. Connecting with other trainers has been invaluable for my mental health.
As I continue to refine my business, I've focused on creating a more streamlined and effective experience for my students. This has also allowed me to establish healthier work habits and a better work-life balance.
Most importantly, I'm grateful for the opportunity to work with such wonderful clients who are willing to go the extra mile (🛩literally) to bring their dogs to me. It's an honor to be able to serve this community.
If you're a dog trainer, I'd love to hear about the lessons you've learned this year. And if you're a dog owner, what have you learned about your furry friend in the past year?
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It's a Cue... Not Engagement
As trainers, we often overlook explaining the nuances of engagement, leading to widespread confusion. While instructing your dog to look at you is a valuable training tool, it's essential to recognize that this action is, in fact, a cue or command - similar to asking your dog to sit. So, what sets engagement apart from a cue?
Here are the differences between engagement and a cue:
Differences Between Engagement and a Cue:
Definition: Engagement refers to a state of being fully absorbed and focused on an activity or interaction, whereas a cue is a specific signal or command that initiates a behavior.
Initiation: Engagement is often initiated by the dog's interest and willingness to interact, whereas a cue is given by the trainer or handler to elicit a specific response.
Focus: Engagement involves the dog's focus on the interaction or activity, whereas a cue is a specific instruction that the dog responds to.
Duration: Engagement can be a prolonged state, whereas a cue is typically a brief signal.
Response: Engagement involves a more voluntary and enthusiastic response from the dog, whereas a cue elicits a specific, trained behavior.
Context: Engagement is often context-dependent, meaning it's influenced by the environment and situation, whereas a cue is typically a standardized signal that works across different contexts.
Training Goal: The goal of engagement is to foster a strong, willing partnership between dog and handler, whereas the goal of a cue is to elicit a specific behavior or action.
By recognizing that cues are specific instructions and engagement is a state of focused interaction, trainers can better communicate with their dogs and foster a stronger partnership.
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