Can dog training really help you improve your parenting skills?

(visuals / slides to this on FB page dated Aug. 5th, 2023)

As we move through behavioral training with folks, I can't tell you how many times we've heard how similar the principles are to child rearing.

And they're right.

With the exception of a few obvious things, yes. The principles are the same.

"Having a child" and *raising a child* are two different things.

Same with dogs.

It's important we embody and live through the example we wish to set.

This can be quite a challenge for many, as raising a dog or a child will bring up a loooooot of things we may have been avoiding, ignoring, suppressing, denying, resisting, etc.

All will be called forward in the form of a "trigger" or a "challenge".

Why?

Because it's actually there to *serve* us.

It's all information, and is coming up to help us find the courage to face, own, and address whatever it is that needs it.

In order to become a better version of ourselves, we have to overcome what's holding us back (again, why I call this work "inadvertent life coaching" :)).

All too often, we're sending our dependents (dogs and children) mixed signals and messages.

Instead of, "Do as I say and as I do," we're conveying the message, "Do as I say, not as I do" through all our inconsistencies

This leaves anyone looking to us with a great deal of confusion, conflict, and distrust.

"Eat healthy".... but look at what we feed them in schools. Look at what we're serving at home.

"Drive more responsibly", yet we tear around neighborhood streets, cut people off, yell at folks on the road, and flip 'em the bird.

"Respect your brother and sister," yet we disrespect our partners, spouses, family members, neighbors, etc.

Many people struggle with the concept of discipline.

There's a yin and yang to it.

And it's not just how we deliver it, it's also how consistent we are with it.

How unapologetic and unwavering we are.

Both dogs and children know when we mean business.... and when things are up for debate.

They know when there's a little bit of wiggle room, and when there's space for negotiation (...and debate and negotiate they will, if they feel they can--- especially the stronger energy children and dogs).

Raising a dog and/or a child is a most humbling and educational experience.

While I don't have any children of my own, I have worked with plenty. And, as you know, I've raised dogs of my own and have worked with *countless* others.

Dog raising is a family affair.

Child raising is a family affair.

And if you're flying solo, these principles still apply.

When we assume the parenting role and this type of commitment, it's our job- and **personal and social responsibility** - to nurture, teach, and equip our dogs and our children with what they need (emotionally, mentally, physically) to grow into their best versions of self.

After all, they're the world's future adults who will be making their unique impact in some way (yes- dogs, too).

Stay open, my friends.

Instead of judging behavior, get curious about it instead (even when it comes to your own behavior).

It's all information.