TAKE YOUR HANDS OFF YOUR DOGS AND ASK PERMISSION..... FROM THE DOG... YES, YOU HEARD ME... FROM THE DOG
If you don't know what that looks like employ a canine / human relationship educator/ coach.
Language matters. Is it really ok to be using words such as obedience? Just STOP and think! What does that word actually mean?
Ask yourself, Do you OWN your dog? Can you have a loving, respectful relationship with something you own? How can we OWN a sentient being? If we OWN something then our behaviour towards (it) will be one of possession and ownership. Is that how you envisage your friendships or relationships to be? If your friend considered you owned, how would that alter their behaviour towards you?
Let's look deep and be honest. What can YOU do today, to improve your relationship with your dog? Perhaps it's redefining the language you used to describe the dog you share your home with. I guarantee it's as good a place to start as any.
The video link below is the BEST 20 minutes anyone could spend learning the GREATEST lesson of ALL time if you share your life with a dog or you work with one. I too have dedicated my working life to sharing this same message for everyone I work with. I definitely don't do it as eloquently as Kim Brophy. Here's a link to her incredible TED talks presentation https://youtu.be/46ND3suK1y8
