MINDFUL NOT MIND FULL SERIES - "Letting Go and Letting Dog"

Get it… Let Go & Let Dog?

Obviously it's a play on the saying "let go and let God” but what does it mean?

Let’s start with the original saying and its basic meaning?

Growing up in church I can tell you the original saying discusses abandoning things like control… worry… and entitlement to higher power.

Now I’ll let you discern the details of that based on whichever faith you believe in (or don’t believe in).

As Dog trainers, we often focus on high expectations for our clients and the dogs we work with. Our clients push that even further by wanting a perfectly behaved, obedient companion, only for us to tell them that reality isn't always possible. Often for the dog's benefit, one of the most profound lessons for trainers and clients is learning to let go of expectations to an extent.

The practice of letting go is deeply rooted in mindfulness and is part of the course I teach.

Mindfulness helps us in our interactions with dogs and clients. It also shows us how to cultivate a stronger bond with our dogs. In this article, I’ll explore the significance of letting go of expectations in working with dogs and clients and how this approach can lead to happier, healthier relationships with both the dogs and humans we interact with daily.

Setting Realistic Expectations and the Perils of Unrealistic Ones

Setting expectations in dog training is normal and required as a professional dog trainer; after all, we invest time and effort into working with the clients and dogs, expecting both of them to respond and meet the goals we lay out. However, expecting too much too soon can lead to frustration and disappointment. Our clients, both human and canine have their own pace of learning, and it's crucial to respect that individuality.

Unrealistic expectations and the drive to reach them can sabotage the training process. When we expect our dogs to learn complex commands in a specific timeframe or to behave perfectly in all situations, we can set ourselves up for frustration. Putting similar expectations on clients who are struggling with events outside of training their dogs can create animosity towards them. Both the dogs and the clients need patience, time and empathy to grasp new concepts and succeed. Expecting perfection and unrealistic dedication not only stresses the dog and human but also puts undue pressure on the trainer working with them and leads to apathy, anger and often burnout.

Embracing the Practice of Letting Go and Letting Dog

Instead of demanding flawless behavior, embrace the dog’s imperfections and help them. Understand that mistakes are part of the learning process, allowing room for growth and improvement in BOTH the client and their dog.

Slow down and focus on the progress made. Find and celebrate the small victories with the client. Let them know you are there to help them find success with the dog and not simply drive the dog to a set of standards regardless of how they feel about it. This slowing down boosts confidence of both client and dog and encourages continued learning.

Last week's blog article focused on being present in the moment. Again, this teaches us to be present and appreciate each moment with the dogs and clients. Focus on the here and now, rather than worrying about the future.

When we use an approach that takes into account the whole dog we understand each dog is unique, and their learning curve varies based on a number of factors. Let go and be adaptable to both methods and approach. If a particular approach isn’t working, be willing to change tactics and find what resonates best with the dog and client in front of you. Meet them where they are.

Reap the Benefits of Letting Go and Letting Dog

Mindfulness has been shown to reduce stress and this is true for the trainer as well as the dogs and clients they work with. Letting go of unrealistic expectations alleviates stress. You become more patient and open to where the dog takes you. The dogs and clients sense the relaxed atmosphere and make the learning process smoother and more enjoyable for all parties.

The connection between the trainer, client and dog deepens. Empathy increases your value to the client and you become more than just the trainer. When clients sense their trainers are patient and understanding, they feel secure and trust them. This trust forms the foundation of customer retention, referrals and creates brand evangelists who tell others about you because of how you worked with them and what you accomplished.

Relaxing the rigidity of weekly expectations allows you to focus on effective alternative training techniques versus adopting a “well we have to get this done today” approach. Both the dogs and the clients often respond better to this approach, leading to improved experience for all.

Letting go and letting dog isn’t about lowering standards; it’s about stepping back and embracing a more realistic, patient, and empathetic approach. By recognizing and respecting our dogs’ and clients' individuality, celebrating their progress, and focusing on the present moment, we create an environment where learning flourishes. Through the practice of “letting go and letting dog”, we can not only enhance our dog's behavior but also foster a better bond built on empathy, patience, and mutual understanding.

So, adopt a “let go and let dog” approach and in the process let go of those structured rigid expectations. By doing so you’ll embark on a training journey that can decrease stress and simultaneously increase likelihood of success over the long term of both the dog and the client.