Can Dog Training Actually Teach More Than Just The Dog?
The answer is quite simply, yes. If we pay attention, we can actually learn a thing or two as well. There is an old expression that every deed, every act, parallels other actions within our universe. I think I possibly just made that up. But it is really true if you think about it.
For example, I have always loved the metaphor of how the caterpillar believes that it has come to the end of its life when in reality, it is turning into a beautiful butterfly. If we apply this same lesson to ourselves, our physical lives here on Earth is like the caterpillar. But the end of our physical life is not really the end. We simply morph into a beautiful butterfly.
Isn’t that beautiful?
See how that works?
So let’s take dog training and see what we can actually learn and how we can apply the same concepts to our own lives.
Your life is a lot more complicated than your dog’s. He probably spends most of his
time sleeping, eating, and chewing on a squeaky toy. You have to go to work, put your
kids through college, and save for retirement.
Yet, when it comes to training, some of the principles that work for your dog can help
you too. See what you can learn from basic obedience classes when it comes to your
personal growth and development.
Strategies That Work for You and Your Dog
Whether you’re trying to walk your dog on a leash or speak French, some
fundamentals apply to any learning project. Consider these tips for mastering new
skills.
1. Clarify your goals: Identify the behavior that you want to focus on. It’s usually
more effective to think in terms of forming a new habit rather than breaking an old
pattern.
2. Practice regularly: For any learning to take hold, it’s important to repeat the
steps over and over. Make your new activities part of your daily life.
3. Pace yourself: Start with your top priorities like running each day or studying
for your CPA exam. Postpone other projects that could drain your time and
energy. Start out small, and gradually increase the time and intensity of your
efforts.
4. Expect off days: Whatever you’re working on, prepare yourself for ups and
downs. Some days you’ll feel sharper than others.
5. Be consistent: You’ll reinforce new habits quicker if you try to follow a regular
routine. Do yoga at the same time each morning or devote one corner of your
bedroom to a meditation space.
6. Offer rewards: Boost your motivation by giving yourself something to look
forward to. Maybe you love bacon-flavored crackers as much as your dog does
or maybe you’d prefer a night out at the movies.
7. Consider consequences: Choose actions that deliver the results you dream
about. An afternoon spent on gardening or volunteering in your community will
probably be more gratifying than watching television.
8. Create positive associations: You’ve probably heard about giving a dog a treat
or toy to relieve separation anxiety. While you probably don’t panic when your
spouse goes to work, you can use a similar strategy with your own stressors.
Listen to opera while you iron or wear cashmere socks on job interviews.
9. Leverage your strengths: Just like greyhounds run and huskies pull sleds, you
have your own unique gifts. Figure out what you like to do and what you’re good
at. Capitalize on your assets in your personal and professional life.
10. Remain cheerful: When you run into a challenge, smile and think positive. A
happy attitude encourages learning.
Other Essential Tips for Growth
On the other hand, you have a lot more options than your dog. Take advantage of
your human abilities.
1. Plan ahead: Your dog excels at living in the moment, but has a harder time
making the connection between chewing your shoes and being corrected hours
later when you arrive home from work. On the other hand, you can think
long-term and care for your future self.
2. Continue learning: There’s some controversy about whether you can teach an
old dog new tricks, but humans can certainly keep advancing in their golden
years. Sign up for cooking classes or start playing tennis.
3. Consult a professional: Your dog doesn’t know that an expert might be able to
help him with his chronic barking, but you can reach out for counseling and other
services when you feel stuck. Asking for help requires wisdom and strength.
Overall, what works for your dog often works for you too. When you’re trying to
form healthier habits, be patient with yourself and reinforce your positive choices.
Do you think you can apply any of these dog training tips to your own life? Or any others you would add? Let me know in the comments.
If you are thinking of fun ways to keep working with your pup and get the entire family involved,
check this out: ⇒ 25 Easy Dog Tips to Keep you on Track + Free Card Game
So I think that’s it for now.
We’ll talk soon!
