I am just going to start by describing ways I have witnessed loving dog owners unintentionally stifle or derail their dogs wellness and potential to be a “good” canine citizen.
Adopting a dog to fill deep emotional connections that are universally meant to be filled with healthy human interaction and connection.
Putting the accountability of your dog’s undesired behaviors and complexes on other people. [ie. significant others, family, resentful housemates, previous dog owners or your friendly neighbor dog trainer ; - ) ]
Existing with a phenomenal lack of awareness OR straight up denial that an owner/handler may have little to no skill or experience (especially a healthy “frame of reference”) to what should be considered a good dog.
Trauma bonding and mirroring irrational fear with a dog.
Mistakenly believing that EMOTIONS and FEELINGS are the same thing. Dogs simply do not rationalize or respond contextually as we emotionally-charge humans do.
For those of you playing the home game and checking facts…. : )
Emotions are real-time data sparked by sensations in the body. Feelings can be more biased, altered by mental misconceptions.
Lastly, Not LISTENING is the silent killer!!! If someone that you respect, love and/or trust tells you (in any manner) that your dog may be poorly behaved or needs help— These folks are trying to HELP YOU. There very well may be an underlying problem that YOU are too close to or created. You will be helpless and guaranteed to have the same results, until you accept the fact that YOU are the solution to resolve Fido’s undesired behaviors.
Phew…. I made it through my list.
It is not always easy to say things that people don’t want to hear but need to learn to appreciate.
I am also a human….
I have failed dogs too because I could not see that I was the common denominator and a catalyst to the very undesired behaviors that I wanted to see change.
Now, I live a life of contribution to causes greater than myself. This includes helping ALL people develop a K9 Vision and see the world through the eyes of a dog.
Ps… Play a fun game with your dog today. It will make you smile and the world needs more people to smile.
