Is Your Puppy Crazy? Good!
Welcome back to Trainer Testimonies, where we explore the world of dog training and behavior. Today, we delve into a common observation during group classes that highlights the divide between two types of puppies: the spirited and the calm. While many may envy the calmness of some puppies, I firmly believe in the power of a spirited puppy when it comes to fostering confidence and shaping a predictable, safe adult dog. Let's explore why confidence takes precedence and how it can positively influence our puppies' future.
A note of caution. This is not a guide to choosing a puppy. There are many factors when it comes to this task and they could not be summarized here. Choosing a great breeder or consulting an experienced trainer prior to picking your puppy will be your best bet at choosing the right puppy for your home.
First, A Tale (Tail?) From Group Training:
Many times while teaching a group class I have seen a clear divide. Group 1, puppies are going crazy with excitement, they can't hold still. They are barking, playing, pulling at their owner's clothes. Their owners are frustrated, annoyed, and embarrassed. Group 2 puppies are calm and reserved, staying close to their owners. If you weren't looking at them you wouldn't even know they were there. Often Group 1 is envious of Group 2 and they are in class specifically to get their puppy to calm down.
The Power of Confidence:
While no puppy is perfect, I prefer Group 1 because I believe in harnessing the potential confidence that lies within a "blank slate." Teaching a dog to be more confident can be a challenging task, requiring time, practice, and specific skills to redirect their innate personality traits. However, it is far easier to guide a spirited puppy towards developing impulse control, understanding appropriate behavior, and knowing when to unleash their playful side versus when to remain calm and composed. Group 1 is encouraged to channel that energy into obedience, work on impulse control, and build engagement with their owner. Group 2 is encouraged to show their puppy how awesome life is, reward them for exploring, and letting them get away with some rude behaviour in favour of building that “the world is your oyster” attitude before they start putting boundaries around them.
The Transformation:
Over the following weeks, we often witness a significant change within Group 1. As they learn the necessary skills to control their behavior, they gradually adopt a more thoughtful and composed role. On the other hand, Group 2, who initially encouraged their puppies to explore and embrace the world with boldness, may experience challenges as their puppies struggle to contain their newfound confidence. Only after building that confidence up will they start the tasks that Group 1 has already been working on for weeks.
The Importance of Confidence:
Confidence plays a crucial role in shaping a predictable, safe adult dog. Anxiety and fear can trigger panicked reactions, fight-or-flight responses, and hinder trust. By prioritizing confidence, we set our puppies on a path towards emotional resilience and adaptability, leading to a happy and well-adjusted adulthood.
Steering Towards Confidence:
Rather than focusing solely on obedience or perfect house manners (these still matter), my primary goal is always to instill confidence in puppies. I believe in nurturing their innate sense of exploration, bravery, and curiosity. By doing so, we lay a solid foundation for a lifetime of learning and growth.
Embracing the Journey:
A spirited puppy is not an easy puppy to live with but I’m not worried about the puppy, I’m thinking about the adult dog they will become. It requires dedication, patience, and a deep understanding of our puppies' needs. Together, we navigate the path towards confidence, ensuring they become resilient and well-adjusted adult dogs.
In the world of dog training, I advocate for nurturing the confidence of spirited puppies over prioritizing immediate obedience or perfect behavior. While it may seem easier to start with a calm puppy, true confidence cannot be easily taught or created. By embracing the inherent enthusiasm and energy of spirited puppies, we unlock their potential to become self-assured and emotionally stable adult dogs.
Stay tuned for more engaging content on Trainer Testimonies, as we continue to explore the fascinating world of dog training and behavior. Remember, it's through nurturing confidence that we shape a future filled with joy, trust, and lifelong companionship.
