The Other Big C: Communication
When I work with my clients trying to solve their best friend’s behavioral issues, I always make sure to inform them that communication between us is ALWAYS open. Whenever a client is struggling, I tell them not to be ashamed – it happens. They should be proud that they are doing something to help their dog. It just takes some practice and some finesse, and the client should always make sure to contact me if they need help. I always make it available for them to call me, shoot me an e-mail, and provided they are not driving, they can even a punch in a quick text message for me (have no fear, I have unlimited text messages on my phone!).
If a client is noticing a new attitude with their dog while training, I usually ask that they inform me. Positive behavior development with the dog is always great to hear because you can already sense the confidence these dog owners are gradually achieving, consequently refining the training and making the dog feel calmer and more comfortable. Of course, if I hear no breaking news in between sessions, I tend to assume No News = Good News (though I still like to check in every now and then). However, if things are turning sour or if the dog is exhibiting an odd, unacceptable behavior, or anything that seems discomforting for the dog and owner, I usually INSIST that I be informed of these incidents.
Why?
When a dog is showing little behavioral evolution, things can still get tiring and worrisome. Perhaps the dog is adapting at a much slower pace than desired. Maybe the dog is still unsure how to respond to these new training ideas, therefore he/she acts out whenever it can find the briefest moment of freedom. There are a lot of concepts I stress to my clients and associates when it comes to my training program. Consistency is INCREDIBLY important and I always make sure to demonstrate it and tell my clients that consistency is crucial for successful training. But another big “C” is Communication. I always keep my clients up-to-date on what’s happening on my end of the training – new ideas, techniques, if an emergency occurs and it affects our current schedule, etc. – and I expect the same from clients, particularly if they are toiling with the training and seeing little improvement, and if any negative problems arise.
I practice strong communication with vets as well. With the owner’s permission, I open and maintain a steady correspondence with the dog’s vet to keep them posted on the dog’s training and new behavior. I don’t see it as just a courtesy for the vets, but I think it’s an important aspect of the training that helps everyone in the long run. Apart from the owners and maybe myself, the vets are probably the next important people in these dogs’ lives. They understand what goes on with the dog physically and medically, and most times they understand a lot of mental and behavior problems these dogs are combating. With everyone on the same page regarding the dog’s behavior changes, it leaves little room for confusion, false diagnoses, and ultimate failure.
With serious cases, when some clients are struggling, they tend to feel hopeless and think maybe their dog is a lost cause. This is why my phone is always on – I am here to tell you that your dog is not doomed! The sweat and tears that accumulate from the training can physically and mentally exhaust both the dog and owner, and maybe the owner starts to think there is no light at the end of the tunnel, subsequently they start making hasty assumptions and poor decisions. I am always ready to talk my clients through problems, and if needed, I will always come back to the home and examine the potential cause for the dog’s stunted progress. I advertise and tell my clients and colleagues that I am a commitment-based (another significant “C”!) dog trainer, which means I work with consistency-based clients until they see results, and I always exhaust every possibility there is to find the key to their dog’s success.
It’s nice that my training methods have a steady, impressive success rate, but that does not mean it is always smooth sailing. We always take care of the dog’s problem, but sometimes a lot of struggle comes along with that success. As a dog trainer, I understand the frustration a lot of these dog owners experience while working with their dog. Many times their normal routines are tweaked a bit in order to provide a more controlled environment for the dog, though it is always arranged to take away the opportunity to fail and to the dog up for success. These clients know it the best option for the dog, but we all know change can take some adjustment. It doesn’t just apply to the dogs, but also the humans!
No matter how arduous it may seem, have faith in your dog AND yourself. The line is always open and my inbox is never too full. For any questions, please click here, and if you are interested in learning more about arranging an initial consult for your troubled canine pal, call our office at 800-649-7297! We look forward to helping you and your family!