Resetting Expectations

Reduced access to restaurants, anything drawing large crowds, household goods, and even food has all of us shifting our expectations. When you go to the grocery store or shop via delivery service, you don't always get your first, second, or even third choice.  As we all navigate the new normal, we are resetting expectations and practicing patience. 

This may be a good time to also reset your expectations for your dog. For many reasons, bomb-proof dogs who are well adjusted and can thrive in any environment are becoming few and far between. Dogs with issues are much more common nowadays. Genetics, socialization, and previous life experiences play a large role. 

Think of a shy/bold continuum. Where does your dog fall on this spectrum? If your dog is towards the shy end, there are things you can do to move the needle towards the bold side, but you may never get all the way to the bold end. Unless you have a Golden Retriever, you’re not turning your dog into a Golden Retriever. 

This doesn’t mean you should give up helping your dog live her best life. This means that you may need to lower your expectations and meet your dog where she’s at. By accepting your dog for who she is, you can set realistic goals. Don’t worry, your dog was never getting into an ivy league school. 

So who can help you move the needle? People on your team should include a professional force-free trainer, a veterinarian, and a veterinary behaviorist. How can these people help during the pandemic? Part of resetting expectations means accepting that video consultations/tele-training can be an effective stopgap until we no longer have to practice social distancing. Please continue to support pet-related small businesses by signing up for video consultations/tele-training and online classes. Want to support my small woman-owned business? Behavior United launched a video consultation service last year called Behavior Anywhere. This spring, I am prepared to teach classes online and outside.  We all want to help you live your best life with your best furry friend.

Jackie Moyano#mynewnormal, #dogtraining, #dogswithissues, #dogtrainersnearme, #unitedwetrain, #behaviorunited, #forcefreetrainer, #silverspringdogtrainer, #onlinedogtraining, #onlinedogtrainer, #teletraining, #remotedogtrainer, #onlinegroupdogtrainingclasses