Dexter had his own plans this morning! Lesson on flexibility in training.

So, tracking done, I am ready to do some obedience work and BAM!!! Dexter decides that the only thing he cares about this morning is some invisible entity that he cannot get his attention off. He locked in staring into the distance and sniffing. No commands or food could distract him. He was full of tense, concentrated energy that was laser beam directed into that ghost.

Now, I faced a choice … Push him into what I wanted to do or let this almost 6 months old deal with whatever occupied his mind.

My plans crushed, I decided to listen to my pup and allow him to process his emotions and interests along with me.

Instead of all the training planned, we went for a long power walk. I chose to be a part of his process and help him drain that energy with my help.  We walked together and allowed his tension to dissipate into the walk.

Ah, and after about 20 minutes of power walking, a miracle happened, my pup relaxed into an easy trot and his attention returned to me. We did some simple obedience exercises and happily went home.

So, remember to be fluid with your dog. Pay attention to their emotions and behavior. Especially, with young dogs who are still processing lots of new information about themselves and the world. Be patient and attentive! Sometimes you will need to surrender you desires, plans and ego and go along with your dog’s needs. Your patience and understanding will pay dividends later through greater bond and respect with you dog.