Once we decide that we want our dogs to understand us, we must be willing to understand them. We will have a role to fulfill, a commitment to uphold. I look at the decision to train a dog as a precious opportunity to enhance two lives.
When I train my dog I am obligated to fulfill my role, it is an important undertaking and one that brings me a great deal of joy.
I look at this role in my dog’s lives as that of a teacher, or mentor, more than a parent or an equal. A loving, kind, informed, teacher that is not in a hurry or impatient. I expect to bring my best to my dog’s education.
I aspire to understand them and meet their needs while guiding them and setting appropriate boundaries that will keep them both safe and welcome in society.
I am committed to learning what I need to learn to meet the individual requirements of each dog that comes into my life. My profession dictates that I inspire every student I teach to do the same.
I believe that if we look at our dogs as our pupils, and ourselves as dedicated teachers we will discover what our dogs are capable of. The training skills we develop will benefit every dog that crosses our path in the future. We will expand our own compassion, empathy and patience in all areas of our lives. If we choose to.