I often hear, “my dog’s behavior X is a problem. Tell me how to fix it.”
Sigh.
When you start seeing behavior as a problem, then you are looking through a microscope and limiting your view of what is possible.
Your dog is hardwired for survival and the behavior is how she reacts to those situations to protect herself.
These neural pathways are repeated and the behavior is reinforced.
In order to help your dog change her behavior, you have to create an environment to conducive which allows a dog to feel safe which in turn creates an opportunity for your dog to learn a new way of experiencing the environment.
When you pair this with something she loves, your dog’s mind is creating new neural pathways, therefore new choices can be made.
This doesn’t happen in a vacuum.
The other side of the training coin is you.
Like you, I also experienced pet caring in a much different way.
Outdated methods permeated my brain.
Also, like you, I wanted to do things differently, but it was challenging in the beginning.
Why? Because, like you, I had no experience when I first started out what behavior change looked like in a modern way.
I too read books and scoured the internet for guidance.
Like you, this led me into a rabbit hole.
Building confidence doesn’t happen by reading theory and concepts.
Building confidence in creating change happens because you took action.
Taking action in trying something new where you have no experience in doing, will creep you to your own comfort zone.
This is where your limiting beliefs live and where your own brain tries really hard to keep you safe by pushing against you from growing.
You too are hardwired for survival. Growing and expanding your world is not what you’re meant to do.
Because creating new neural pathways takes energy and your resources to achieve, your brain wants you to stop and keep you small.
This only works against you and what you want your dog to achieve together.
Desiring growth and living an integrated life with your dog requires you to take a step past your comfort zone and your willingness to be open to the experience, whatever that brings.
Your willingness to challenge beliefs and find the confidence while doing so.
When you can feel more confident in taking action, you can help your dog do the same.
Are you willing to get started in transforming your life with your dog?
Four Paws & You Dog Training 