So Your Dog Has Issues

So your dog has issues. No dog is perfect. All dogs have some behavior their people would like to change, including trainers’ dogs. And no, these issues don't diminish how much we love them. 

And yes, we all have days when these issues get on our last nerve. Just like the flight attendants tell us, before putting on another’s oxygen mask, we must first put on our own oxygen masks. We need to take care of ourselves so we can take care of others. Here are some self-care reminders:

Ask for help. This may mean asking friends or family members to find a force-free dog trainer on your behalf. I’ve had a few phone calls and emails from people helping their family members find a trainer. Another way to ask for help is to ask friends or family members to watch your dog for an afternoon or overnight while you catch up on sleep and life. 

Take breaks. You don’t have to work on your dog’s issues all the time. Dogs, like people, have good days and bad days. If either of you are having a bad day, avoid your dog’s triggers then take the day off from training and behavior modification.

Find joy. Go for a long, quiet decompression walk in the woods where your dog can sniff until her heart’s content. Snuggle on the couch with your dog while you relax with a book or watch a movie. Enjoy quiet moments together. 

Find community. Arrange outdoor doggie playdates. Find a dog sport that hones your dog’s natural talents. Join an online support group for people living with dogs with issues. For example, Behavior United has a Facebook Group called Behavior United Serenity Now for people with reactive dogs. 

Living with dogs can be messy, both emotionally and physically. It’s OK not to love every moment. Please take care of yourself. Please reach out so we can tip the scales towards more joyful days!