This week we watched a video, aimed at dog training professionals that was pretty useless. But one line from the video struck a chord.
The presenter said that for most people, “their life is bigger than just their dog.”
Aside from the atrocious grammar, the thought resonated.
Part of your life
While dogs are members of their families, most people have a lot more than that going on – family, jobs, school, volunteering, hobbies, traveling. The list could be endless. And while people love their dogs – most dogs don’t participate in the rest of their lives.
Some dogs are able to go to work with their owners. Others accompany their families for outings like soccer games, picnics, or hikes. But most of our dogs wait for us comfortably at home. Most people’s lives aren’t centered around their dogs.
Aim higher
There’s nothing wrong with that – but both your dog’s and your lives could be bigger! Wouldn’t it be fun to be able to bring your dog with you wherever dogs are allowed? And know they’ll be well-behaved? And wouldn’t you love to have friends drop by any time without worrying about your dog? You can!
As we’re getting the wheels rolling on our 2-Minute-Trainer Club, we’ve been trying to define why we’re such advocates for training. And the nutshell answer is – it allows both of you to have a bigger life.
Some people have negative associations with the word “training.” There’s a history of boredom, drudgery, and even cruelty associated with the word.
Playing learning games
With our 2-Minute Trainer Method – every little “training session” is an opportunity to play with your dog. We define the games you can play, in limited space and time. And get substantial results. The amazing thing is that, as your dog’s understanding of the method grows, he or she will learn new things faster, easier, and better than you could have dreamed.
Just this week Hope taught her French Bulldog (not a breed known for compliance!) to “squat.” Her veterinarian suggested that Torque’s hind end was so straight that he may have issues with arthritis later in life unless we worked to strengthen him. So, after discussing the best exercises that would help him – Hope taught him to “squat.” It took about 7 minutes – total.
Hope’s not a miracle worker. But she’s been playing training games with Torque, so he knows how to learn. He knows how to keep trying “stuff” until he hears a click and gets a treat. It’s all making it fun for both of you! This video is from the second two-minute session they played this game!
Pick up a clicker and join us in the 2-Minute-Trainer Club! Your dog can learn anything you want. Give us a couple of minutes a day and we’ll show you. You won’t believe what a difference a couple of minutes can make.
