“With every interaction you’re building trust or eroding it.”
No matter how small the interaction, one or the other is happening.
I ask my clients to keep this in mind when they’re training their dogs or when they’re spending any time with their dogs. Are you willing to erode trust to get what you want or can you see how trust over compliance is best in the long run for you and your dog?
I’m fortunate to work with lovely people who align with my ethics and attitude towards dogs. Sometimes they come to me already feeling empathy and compassion towards their dog and looking for a trainer that aligns with their beliefs. Sometimes I work with people and show them their gut feeling is correct, that they can be kind and still teach their dog. Often I give them permission to have an ‘imperfect’ dog and to find more humour and thus build confidence in their choice to have empathy and compassion instead of a ‘perfect’ dog. They can stop listening to the neighbors, tv trainers, etc. giving them information that goes against what is in their gut.
🫵 You’re not a bad guardian for having empathy and compassion for your dog!
🫵 Your not a bad person for adapting your behaviour to your dog if that is what is best (for the time being or for the life of the dog).
It’s my belief and practice that we DO NOT gain behaviour at the expense of the dog. If trust and feeling safe will be eroded, I don’t do it. I find another way or go back to square one with training.
Be kind!