It can be difficult to be patient when working your way through behavior problems with your dog.
Think about how difficult it is for us as humans to develop new habits and behaviors. Likewise it is difficult for our dog to change their default behavior; especially when they have relied on a behavior or reaction for a long time. Once you are armed with good, solid information for working on behavior problems, patience and consistency will prove extremely valuable to achieving your goal. Your dog will read your emotions similar to how you might read a good book. Staying patient and being a strong, fair leader will prove far more effective than losing your temper with your dog.
Many times I've heard the expression "take a breath" or "take a beat" when it comes to parenting your kids. I've always thought it was good advice to take a moment when you are angry so you don't end up saying words you will later regret (with all other people, not limited to just
your kiddos). With kids they understand our feelings and we can explain to them why their choices were wrong. We don't have that luxury with dogs. Unfortunately, with our canine friends we can't use logic or rational to explain what went wrong. They don't hold onto information the same way we do either. In the moment when the behavior is occurring is the same moment you have to communicate your pleasure or displeasure. For instance, when you come home and the dog you left loose in the house has destroyed all the pillows, because they have separation anxiety, putting the shredded pillow in front of their face and yelling at them produces zero positive results. They have absolutely no idea why you are mad or what behavior led you to those feelings.
It's sad when people throw judgement and shame on people with dogs that have behavior issues. Most of these dog owners are just good folks that are trying to give their dog the best life possible without having a clue how to fix these issues. The battles they face and the emotional turmoil over their dog's behavior or the limitations it may cause in their life, don't need piling on from other people, well-meaning or not.
It's okay to get outside help, that specializes in rehabilitating your dog's behavior and it's okay that you can't do it alone. It takes time, patience, and a willingness to make changes, but there is rarely a situation that is without hope. A dog's behavior doesn't change overnight and that's okay. We don't change overnight either ;)
- Good vibes everyone
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