Training animals is easy when we understand being counter-intuitive. First off, we never 'train' animals. (To train is defined as: to drag along.) We can coerce, cajole, shape, threaten, beg, plea, imitate, ad nauseum. But unless we have their friendship and mutual co-operation when it is all said and done; then what do we have? Obedience? Is that what we want? Or do we want a relationship?
An old Cowboy who admittedly loved his Horses as much as his family said during a clinic: THE LESSON IS IN THE RELEASE. The LESSON is in the RELEASE. WTH? No! I argue the lesson is in the action of hands, reins, legs, voice, pressure, posture, communicated to the Horse to do as I will them to do.
Dog leashes are an electrical conduit transmitting our emotional state BEFORE WE ARE AWARE OF IT straight to the Dogs. Our voices, stance, grip, all communicate what we are feeling. Problem is that is usually worry, fear, anger, impatience. OH sorry, am I not speaking the truth about the majority of us?
First - grab a Flower Essence and spray your own hands; then transmit your requests to your Dogs. My go-to is TEAMWORK! Ingredients have never failed to help.
THE LESSON IS IN THE RELEASE means that the lesson is NOT in the tugging, yelling, etc. The lesson is when we stop!!! The lesson is when we release the pressures and let them think for themselves and make better choices in the next moment. Make sense?
When we have communicated what the right action (or inaction) is; then we can take a step back - literally - and give them time and space to make up their own minds to do the right thing. If they don't? Add a bit of pressure, then release, and wait for a few seconds. You will see the mind working and the twitches as fresh neurons fire!!
No, did not forget about the Cats. Matter of fact, I devoted a full chapter to my thoughts on training Cats in MY BOOK. It consists of one blank page. I have had 17 wonderful Cats in my life - they taught me everything I (don't) know.
Labradors and Hounds? Welllll, they may take a tiny bit longer. But if you wait and watch for the subtleties - you will see their co-operative spirits shine through!!! LESSONS LEARNED FASTER WITH FLOWERS for THINKING & TRAINING.
