Is Your Nervousness Affecting Your Dog?

Concerns about doing the right thing or making a mistake can often ensnare us in a web of minor details and “what ifs,” causing us to lose touch with the present moment. This can be particularly problematic when training your dog.

Consider this: if anxiety about your dog’s reactions to others during a walk overwhelms you, you might avoid walks altogether. Alternatively, you could end up going for a walk filled with tension and stress. In both scenarios, both you and your dog miss out on a potential joy-filled walk due to the preoccupation with what could go awry, preventing you from appreciating what’s going right.

Remember, dogs are extraordinarily attuned to your energy and body language. Don’t allow your anxieties to dominate. Instead, strive to relax and be fully present with your dog.

Adopting a positive mindset and giving yourself the grace to make mistakes (we all do!) can clear the way for your intuition and instincts. This clarity will significantly enhance communication between you and your dog.

Playing music or an audiobook can calm your overthinking and help you stay centered.

Remember, everyone has to start somewhere. Don’t let fear of missteps hold you back. Enjoy the journey of learning and growing with your canine companion!

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You can also email me at ineke@ptbodogtrainer.ca