Sometimes, I wonder why we think that repeating the same behavior will change another species’ actions. Our dogs rely on us to choose and guide them within the context of our lifestyles. If we don’t, they will simply do what comes naturally to them as dogs, which can often leave us feeling frustrated and bewildered.
Let me share a recent experience that perfectly illustrates this point. After a long day, I went to bed before my partner, Dave, so he needed to bring the dogs in from outside, our dog, Wild, had no intention of coming inside. Typically, I’d hear a raised voice or the unmistakable sound of a treat bag being opened—a bribe to coax Wild indoors. But this time, Dave did something different: he asked me to call Wild from the sliding door.
What happened next was nothing short of remarkable. No fuss, no negotiation—just a simple change in approach. With Dave’s calm request, Wild trotted in with ease and found his spot on the bed, ready to settle down for the night. This shift in Dave’s behavior changed Wild’s interaction.
Dogs are natural predictors; they thrive on understanding what comes next. When we disrupt that cycle of expectation, we create the perfect opportunity to teach them exactly what we desire. It’s essential to recognize that I don’t know a single dog whose sole purpose is to ruin our lives. In fact, dogs have been bred for centuries to work harmoniously with their packs, whether they be humans or other animals.
So where does the problem often lie? More often than not, it’s in us—the humans. We possess the remarkable ability to recognize and alter our behavior, and that’s our superpower! If your dog isn’t listening, a training tool isn’t achieving the desired results, or you’re left scratching your head in confusion about why something isn’t working, it’s time to take a step back and examine your own actions.
Remember, doing the same thing repeatedly and expecting different results is a recipe for frustration. If you want to lead your dog confidently, embrace change within yourself first. By adjusting your behavior and being a thoughtful leader in your dog’s life, you’ll be amazed at how they begin to blossom into the amazing companions they are meant to be.
So the next time you find yourself at a stalemate with your dog, reflect on how you can shift your approach. Change is the key to growth—for both you and your pup! 🌱
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