In order to create healthy habits with your dog, you need to begin by loving yourself.
Once you have a positive image of yourself, you will project that to your dog. Dog’s follow calm confident leaders.
Are you taking care of yourself physically, mentally and emotionally?
If not, what can you do to improve in each of these areas? Are there resources to assist you? Your attitude will affect your dogs’ behavior and willingness to work for you.
If you are angry, impatient, upset or easily frustrated, your dog will not want to listen to you. You have to work at patience, relaxation and emotional neutrality.
I love that term-it applies to people as well as our pets. If we can regulate our emotions, we can help our pets learn to do the same. Relaxation is a powerful training technique but we need to allow the dog time to fully decompress and enjoy the calm state of mind relaxation can bring.
Start small – making too many changes at once seem impossible and then you give up. Pick one area where you can implement one change for 21 days to create a new habit. (drink more water, get more sleep, access social media less, add in a healthy food item, etc).
Set small manageable and attainable goals. Remember the SMART Acronym
- Specific
- Measureable
- Achievable
- Realistic
- Timely
Enlist a support system to help you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and then make sure to celebrate your accomplishments.
Your dog can help with this. Grab the leash and walk together, enjoy nature together and then watch TV together. You can have the best of both (structure and cuddle time) but you need to love yourself if you want your dog to follow you.
Once you are in a good place mentally and emotionally, then you can help your dog be the best version of themselves. Feed the best food, get the best vet care, invest in quality equipment and supplements and practice patience, persistence, and a positive attitude.
Share your journey with us and let us know how we can help!