Change takes time. It’s so easy to get frustrated when we’ve been eating right and exercising but we don’t see results on the scale. It’s uncomfortable to work hard on a relationship but still argue over trivial things. It’s hard to see great strides in our dogs’ training only to have them break command and cause chaos.

Don’t lose hope; change takes time. We may not see immediate results, and we may see behaviors revert back to old habits at times. But that doesn’t mean that everything that you’ve worked on is forgotten and nullified. It simply means that there is more work to be done.

Don’t let the moments of poor choices or unexpected results take away from all of the hard work you’ve put in. Instead, focus on all of the successes that you have had. Focus on the calm walks instead of pulling. Focus on how they don’t bark at the doorbell anymore. Focus on whatever success you are having, and find comfort in knowing that change will come in other areas, too. It just takes time and consistency.

It is such a relief when you have a dog that understands boundaries and rules. In the past, Copper would have darted out of the yard to say hello to everyone he saw. With solid training and expectations, he can now sit outside freely with us and just enjoy the world around him. No commands needed because he clearly understands the rules and is happy to live within the boundaries he’s been given.

We focus our training for the life that you want to live. It all comes down to clearly and consistently telling your dog what is and is not appropriate, and then enforcing those guidelines. With repetition and consistency, your dog can excel within the new boundaries that you put in place. This is what living a life of freedom with your dog is all about!

Have you ever heard someone say “a tired dog is a good dog”? I want to challenge that by saying “a calm dog is a good dog”.

Tired dogs regain their energy and go back to whatever antics they find rewarding. Calm dogs have been trained to relax, look to us for guidance, and practice self-control in busy environments. I would take a calm dog over a tired dog any day.