“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better”

“We’ve been bad dog parents!”

“This is all our fault, we’ve stuffed it all up!”

“Thanks for not judging us, we know we’ve done this all wrong!”

Just a few of the things I’ve heard so far this month from dog owners when they’re explaining what’s going on with their dogs.

I’ve had the privilege of having a lot of dogs through my hands. More than I can count at this point between personal and foster dogs over the years (like these guys in the pic), not even starting on the professional ones.

You know why I don’t judge you when you tell me your stuff ups? I’ve probably done something similar myself at some point with some dog or another. I’ve almost certainly seen other people make these same mistakes. And though experience and education really helps, I still make mistakes sometimes. We’re human.

Making mistakes and gaining experience is how we learn. And the majority of the time, your mistakes aren’t catastrophic and we can recover the situation. So try to be kinder to yourself. Raising dogs can be really tough sometimes, and no one gets it right 100% of the time no matter how experienced we are. The important thing is how we move on once we recognise a problem.

Remember:

It’s not all in how they’re raised. Genetics and other factors also play a massive role in behaviour alongside the all important environment and training from you.

If you are seeking training help, you’re already in the top 20% or so of dog owners trying to do better by your dogs.

You probably love your dogs a hell of a lot and you’re willing to invest time and effort into improving things.

Your dogs are probably bloody lucky to have you when so many don’t have that privilege.

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” - Maya Angelou

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If you are struggling, please reach out for help.

📧 hello@wolfedogs.nz to discuss coaching options.