Inner Attitude

This a subject, that in my opinion, is essential to understand about dog training, effective dog training, that is. It is most assuredly the cornerstone in you, as a dog handler. How you think about dogs and the way that you interact with them is your greatest asset in training; or it can be your greatest hindrance. This "inner-attitude" is how you truly view the human/dog bond.

To keep things simple, let's divide up the handlers into three seperate groups. First, you have those who attach many human emotions and feelings to their dogs. They refer to them as their "babies" and really mean it. They dress them up in sweaters and various outfits and throw them lavish doggie birthday parties. They will spend hundreds of dollars on their dogs and you need a crow bar to pry a penny from them for a hugnry child.

The next group are those on the opposite end of the scale. They have a dog, but hardly acknowledge it's existence. They won't spend one minute in training, yet will expect a perfectly well trained dog. They will constantly beat and hit that dog when he does not live up to their expectations. Their hands are cruel and their hearts are cold. They don't even care about or give the basic necessities of food, water, shelter and love.

The middle group is where I believe the good dog handlers to be - the only place where any real, lasting, effective training takes place. These people view dogs as God intended dogs to be viewed... as dogs. They are not cruel to their dogs, nor do they baby them. They love their dogs, but love their children more. They are not afraid to physically correct their dogs when justified. They have their dog's best interests at heart. Because of that they have well-trained, obedient dogs that will gladly work for them all day long.

Now each of these groups of people have different "inner-attitudes" toward their dogs, resulting in greatly varied interactions between dog and handler. Which group are you in? Do you bribe your dog and make excuses when they bite the neighbors child? Do you kick and hit your dog for simply being a dog? Or do you spend time with your dog daily and seek out others with knowledge in how to properly train dogs? Are you afraid to change your attitude when you realize your methods or way of thinking were incorrect? Do you enjoy those moments when you and your dog advance together in training? Are you getting the most out of your dog by having a healthy "inner-attitude" regarding your dog?

Remember: It is not what you appear to be...
nor is it what you say you are...
You are...what you truly are.

Treat your dog as a dog, allow him to be a dog and both you and your dog can progress together in your training.

But, of course, this is only my opinion...