It starts right in the house before you step outside, before you even open the door.
People are either chasing their dogs around the house to get the leash on or the dog is jumping up and down while they’re kind of wrestling just to get the darn leash on.
And it’s no fun and it turns what should be a time of peace and fun and relaxation into a “chore” that most people try to avoid at all costs.
Then they finally get outside and they’re walking their dog to the park, or to the dog park, and the pup will pull them the entire way.
And then of course what happens when they get there?
They let their dog off the leash and then they get to a play, and run, and jump, and have a great time.
BUT something really important has happened and you’re probably not aware of what it is.
The dog has actually just been rewarded for pulling their owner down the street that whole way.
So that’s another case where I tell my clients “If your dog is pulling then he doesn’t get to go to the dog park.”
“He shouldn’t get a reward for pulling you there.”
And you’re 100% correct. You pup needs the exercise and to burn off all that energy. He needs to run he needs to play.
But if this is what you’re walks look like you’re actually training your pup with bad behaviors that are going to stress you out in the ling run.
So it all really kind of falls back on on how important training is starting from your living room, starting from your kitchen, before you even make it out of the door.
For people who struggle just to get their dog outside in a well-behaved manner…
Don’t even go to the corner.
You have to start setting goals for your pup to be well behaved.
Sometimes that might look like just making it out the front door.
Then you might set it to make it to the end of your driveway.
Then make the corner your new goal for the week or something like that.
It’s OK, and really good, to take Baby Steps.
Set those goal.
It probably sounds weird right now, but by doing this you’re setting yourself, and your pup, up for a beautiful long-term relationship of peace and joy.
And if you take it slowly you’ll actually move forward quicker.
Talk soon,
Stacy
PLUS: Whenever you’re ready… here are 3 ways I can help your Four Legged Furry Family Member
1. Book your pup for a Board and Train
My favorite thing to do is to help people with their dogs. If you have a particularly reactive pup the Board and Train (B&T) is exactly what the doctor ordered to help you improve all kinds of behaviors. If you’d like to learn more about my B&T just reply to this email with “B&T” in the subject line.
2. Join our Fusion Program and be a Case Study
I’m putting together a new Fusion Program case study group this month… stay tuned for details. If you’d like to work with me on your improving your life with your pup… just reply to this message and put “Fusion Program” in the subject line.
3. Work with us One-on-One
If you’d like to work directly with us to really improve your life with your dog… just reply to this message and put “One-on-One” in the subject line… tell me a little about your pup, their behavior, and what you’d like to work on together, and I’ll get you all the details!