We have a wonderful program called “Community” and in there we offer lots of coaching, in fact we have a few different coaching programs available for folks who want a better life with their dogs.
This comment from one of the members really makes s…
We have a wonderful program called “Community” and in there we offer lots of coaching, in fact we have a few different coaching programs available for folks who want a better life with their dogs.
This comment from one of the members really makes such an important point, first let me clarify, you can have as many toys and material things for your dog as you want, you can spend as much or as little money on things for your dog as you want, what it is important to realize though that by doing so it does not stop unwanted behaviors, it does not change the dogs state of mind, it does not train behaviors ( though you can use a toy as your reward system just like food training as well as toys are great for increasing drive for a reward based training program) but the bigger issue this concept of having material things for your dog does not give you a better dog.
Most of the material things for your dog are actually for your own happiness, we love to get stuff for our dog, I can’t tell you how many phone calls I have gotten from folks who are struggling with serious behavioral issues with their dogs and they tell me “my dog has the best of everything, the best bed, the best toys (and lots of them) I have my dog groomed and bathed by the best groomer (we love groomers don’t get me wrong) and so many other things that are material in nature. Unfortunately none of that transfers to a dog that has good obedience, stops unwanted behavior and gives your dog a good state of mind,
A few easy examples, my dog destroys the furniture in my house, I don’t understand since they have lots of dog toys to chew one.
My dog has incredible separation anxiety, I don’t understand I leave my dog with all kinds of great puzzles and toys and they have a very comfy bed in the crate when I leave.
I know, but none of that transfers.
Guess what transfers, Training and Behavior Modification and State of Mind Work. Let’s back to all of our foundation work and start doing what truly trains what..
