If you are like most dog owners, there is no doubt your dog feels loved. If you're like most owners, in spite of all this love you're struggling with a lack of control, inappropriate manners and ongoing behavioral problems.
Showering your dog with love is wonderful. No need to stop. What so often happens is we are lenient, out of love. While leniency may feel like love, it’s usually the opposite. When you choose leniency, it feels good but causes chaos and dysfunction. Imagine if Helen Keller’s caretaker rearranged the furniture every time she stepped out of the house. There would be no way for Helen to ever make sense of her world because it keeps changing. That’s the chaos that dog’s experience with our leniency. What your dog desperately needs is for you to act with love by making responsible decisions and being consistent.
What is Responsible Dog Ownership?
Making responsible decisions does NOT require you to stop treating your dog like they’re human. It DOES require you to stop treating your dog like a human all of the time. It means being a leader by helping your dog have a world that makes sense. That includes learning to relate to your dog in a way that he or she can clearly understand. Thereby creating a world where he or she can thrive.
This responsible relationship means a life with structure, and freedom. That structure includes obedience essentials like an off-leash recall anywhere, anytime, regardless of the situation. It also includes walking on a slack leash, no aggression towards people or dogs, a rock-solid down and immediately stopping when told “no”. Finally, balanced structure requires manners that make life inside your home enjoyable for everyone, including your dog.
Remember, if you have a choice, choose to do what “is good for your dog” over what “feels good”. This is responsible dog ownership.
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