The Power of Choice..why your dog’s struggles even after training

Let the phrase "the dog makes a mistake" come out of my mouth at least a half a dozen times during a lesson with a client. And it’s not that the dog actually makes a mistake—well, sometimes they do—but what I’m trying to get across is to allow the dog the option of choice. When we make choices, we gain a sense of control over our lives and can enhance the learning experience. So how does not micromanaging the dog actually help them learn and change behavior?

Simple: with the power of choice, you allow…

• Motivation to grow, as the dog is internally motivated to do what works best for them, whether it’s sitting to go outside or not counter surfing. The dog is motivated to do the behavior as their action is the result of their choice.

• Thinking to happen vs. just action, action, action. Associations are made quickly when the subject is able to make a choice and get automatic feedback.

• Responsibility for your dog’s actions, which are met with consequences (good or bad). Holding them accountable for behavior that they decided to engage in.

• Adaptation and creation of new behavior occurs when guided after making a choice (back to that feedback).

• Experimentation: allowing your dog to choose and guiding that behavior based on their choice allows your dog to grow in confidence, and with confidence, curiosity often follows closely behind. This builds your dog up while also fostering a trusting relationship with you.

Dogs are not dumb; they are much more aware than the quadrant box and need to be respected as such. Their learning needs to fall more into their paws, and we are there for support and help along the way. Because when we micromanage and don’t allow our dogs the power of choice, learning truly never happens, and our dog is suppressed under our thumb. For me, that’s no way to live, as freedom comes with choice, and with freedom, a sense of purpose is renewed. This allows for a much better baseline to train your dog for lasting behaviors and a fulfilling relationship.