Confidence

By Minou Tpain

Confidence

Instagram: @modernk9 Carolinas

As trainers, we have all had that case where a dog is extremely reactive until we take the leash. We walk with the dog and boom, zero reaction.

Why? Because the owner is not confident. The owner does not know how to lead their dog. The owner is insecure, lacks knowledge, lacks experience, and they need help.

But that is why they called us. They are aware something is not right and that they cannot fix it themselves.

I think what bothers me the most though is how so many people point fingers at the owner and just tell them to relax, be confident, don’t get nervous, don’t wrap the leash around your hand, stand up tall, walk with a purpose. It’s so easy to just blame the owner and tell them to chill out.

But we know as trainers you cannot change a dogs’ perception that easily, so why do we expect humans to be any different?

Think of it this way:
So many people have a fear of speaking in public. When they have to give an oral presentation, do you tell them to just calm down and be confident? Or do you give them words of encouragement? Do you share your experiences? Do you give them tips and tricks? I bet it’s the latter.

I am not saying to never use this phrase. I will always point out to my clients why the dog is having the reaction they are having. But I don’t leave it at that. It is so important as trainers that we are there to support the humans just as much as the dog. I am an animal lover to the fullest, but I will never put a dog’s needs above the human’s.

So let’s be more compassionate to those owners that are struggling. You cannot force them to change who they are in just one session, but you can encourage them, guide them, and be that role model for them; a true leader.

 

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