Who Runs the Dog House?

by the K9 Guy, 08-09-17

Over the past 8-9 months I've had the pleasure of working with a couple and their young dog. We started with a consultation when their pup was a few months old. Since that time, we have continued with several training visits as their dog matured. In my last article, I described the importance of doing homework. This couple understand the importance of doing homework, and have been highly compliant. And they're enjoying the rewards of their labor. So is their dog who is earning more and more privileges as she matures.

I often see owners falling into 3 camps - leaders, cohabitants, and caretakers. With coaching during our visits, this couple has (I believe) looked more closely at their relationship with their new pup. They've had dogs through their lives, but they're now finding it's rewarding to work their dog toward THEIR (owner) expectations vs JUST being a companion to their dog. They're finding a "best" relationship they've ever had with a dog.

So while doing homework is important, that homework is always geared toward moving owners from caretakers to leaders. Leaders are comfortable expecting obedience (which requires a dog to defer to an owner's wishes). Leaders are comfortable setting boundaries, rules, and saying NO to unacceptable behaviors. Leaders are teachers who continually refine their pet's behavior and obedience.

We live in a society that is bombarded with information. A lot of it is comically inept, and lacking real-world validity. I want owners to love their dogs, and be friends with their dogs. But I also know they'll need to be more if they want a well mannered dog that listens around real world distractions. A relationship without expectations is just social interaction. A relationship where an owner's expectations are continually being taught to a dog - that's the starting point for a healthy life together. It really matters "who runs the dog house".