Celebrate the Dog That You Have
Many of us have been there. The new puppy/dog doesn’t measure up to the last dog or the dog we have just isn’t what we were expecting.
You may have an energetic dog, when you were looking for a fellow reader/couch potato. Your dog may be more interested in sniffing along a walk than in learning obedience skills. Some behaviors are influenced by breed or breed mix: A Golden or Lab will most likely be a bit obsessed with tennis balls while a Husky or Malamute will want to spend hours outside in the snow. Any retriever or spaniel will need to sniff along an entire walk and a good herder will notice ANYTHING that moves in the yard, the neighborhood…and the state. 😊
So, what do you do?
Recognize the dog that you have. Be honest and nonjudgemental in your assessment. List both the good qualities, which we often overlook, as well as the less desirable qualities of the dog. Are those “bad” qualities really that bad or just not what you wanted or expected?
Focus on the “good” qualities and recognize that even bad behavior is bad behavior, not a bad dog. A dog who is reactive to other dogs out on walks, may be the cuddliest dog inside, where he feels safe. And, with a good trainer, you should be able to change the reactivity.
Support the good qualities by praising the dog when he does something right, even if it’s a small thing. Then look at how you can support what you see as undesirable traits. Sometimes we get the dog we need, not necessarily what we wanted. Will that energetic dog get you out of the house a couple of times a day, even in the snow, so you meet new people or discover new local places to walk? Can your “Sniffer” benefit from a Nosework class where you’ll meet new people, learn about your dog’s innate ability, and grow to appreciate how he finds things with his nose, without having to see them?
If your dog’s personality isn’t what you expected, you will most likely need to meet him at least half-way by providing an outlet or adjusting your expectations. Just like us, dogs are all different, even those within the same line or litter. Personalities can be influenced somewhat, but just like in people, you’re better served acknowledging, accepting, and working with each individual.
If your issue is a behavioral issue, such as reactivity to people or other dogs when walking on leash, get some help. You can find a Certified Professional Dog Trainer near you at https://www.ccpdt.org/.