Overengineering Your Dog

On average, I get at least one training inquiry a day. A classic one I see routinely is, ‘They are a great dog except for this one issue’.

Except, it’s never one issue.

An overhaul is always in order. Which should be exciting because, as the owner, you, also, end up doing some self work (and getting more than you bargained for), as your dog’s discipline is a direct result of your own discipline.

Maybe you don’t care about loose leash walking, door manners, sit-stays, kenneling, etc., but when you build a bomb-proof dog who can do all of these things, it buys you and them so much freedom (discipline equals freedom).

It means once training is in place, you now can do things with your dog that fit your lifestyle rather than working your lifestyle around them.

It means your dog if a problem area arises, you have all the tools to successfully work through it and often, fix it on the spot.

It means you can start having FUN with your dog - going on hikes, to the park, to dog-friendly events or stores - and show off their skills.

It means giving them a biologically appropriate life by fostering a healthy relationship with them rather than using them for comfort or to fill a void (big nuances here between an appropriate level of emotional attachment and a dog being utilized as an ESA or service dog (SPOILER: MOST dogs are not equip for either job).

It means you can have off days, off weeks, or even off months of not completely fulfilling your dog and their training bares the weight rather than everything going out the window.

So why overengineer? To have a resilient dog built to withstand everything life (and you) can possibly throw at them. If you try to go cheap, either with your time, energy, or money, you are only investing in a house of cards.