What would motivate you?
Someone aggressively running up to you, saying, “YOU have to_______”, or being calmly approached and asked, “Hey, would you help me by _______?” Most living things would rather be kindly asked, than brazenly told. Remember, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”? It still applies.
Whether
working with a dog on leash manners, teaching a toddler good table
manners or heading a Human Resources department, both bosses and leaders
can get the job done. How they go about achieving the desired results
is very different.
Pets often mirror our energy and our moods. When we are stressed, our dogs are stressed. When we are calm, they are calm. These behaviors are in the natural order and part of the reason why dogs are a successful as a species. Dogs (kids and employees) thrive under leaders, not bosses.
“It takes time, consistency and patience to establish yourself as the pack leader”, stated Rick Denning, Cesar Milan’s Florida Dog Psychology Center’s lead trainer. “Consider the daily walk, with your dog. As the leader, you determine when you are going and for how long. You control the direction of the walk, how long you allow the dog to socialize, sniff or rest," he added. This is essential bonding time. Your dog deserves your full attention -- do not text or talk on your device.
“By establishing yourself as the pack leader, you will earn your dog’s trust and respect; and behavioral issues are resolved in less time. By acting overly aggressive, with unbalanced energy, and/or bossing the dog, you may get the results of a ´mechanical dog´. He may do what you want, but he is acting out of fear of punishment (emotional, verbal or physical). As soon as the opportunity arises to deviate, likely he is going to," added Denning.
Dogs (and people) naturally want to continue to please benevolent leaders. They have faith in them as their trusted guides, and know their survival is guaranteed as a valued member of the pack.
“Dogs live in the moment. Be that moment!” added Denning.
Dog World with Tina
Tina Valant-Siebelts is a confirmed dog-o-holic, mom to many rescued pets, who volunteers with numerous organizations. To "fill all those dog bowls," Tina is an award-winning photographer, writer & event coordinator. www.HaveDog.com