If you ever wonder why your dog seemed to be learning “down” so well yesterday but just can’t do it today, first look to yourself.
Dogs are extraordinarily sensitive to our moods and feelings—and they tend to take them on. If you are calm and relaxed, your dog generally will be too. If you are stressed or angry, your dog is likely to become anxious and “act out” in ways that will make you even more stressed!
Pay attention to your own energy. Your dog can feel it. Your body language projects your feelings in ways that humans can’t detect. And because you are the pack leader, your dog will follow you even into anger, sadness, or stress.
So the first rule is to take care of yourself. Address the causes of your stress, and your dog will automatically be happier and healthier.
Learn what your triggers are and what your dog’s triggers are—and avoid them! Don’t let the stress escalate. If your dog really can’t concentrate on “down” today, end the training session. (And try doing something that makes you happy before you start tomorrow’s session!)
If the dog is pulling on the leash and can’t walk nicely with you, maybe you’ll have to skip the leash walk today. I hate to say this, because your dog really needs that walk, but the relationship between the two of you is even more important.
Watch your dog to find out what–besides your own stress—causes him distress, and then do your best to avoid such situations. Many dogs, for example, get anxious when they meet a new dog. You’ll do your best to socialize your dog to precisely such situations, but it’s still true that many dogs need to keep their distance from a newcomer for a bit before they say Hello. Shoot, most humans stop and survey the situation for a minute before they walk into a room full of strangers.
No matter what, don’t let stress escalate—either yours or your dog’s. Simply avoid situations you can’t handle gracefully.
The more you reassure your dog by taking the part of the pack leader, the calmer he will be. Learn the signals that your dog is anxious or fearful, and echo back his own calming motions.
Most importantly of all, be mindful of your own energy. If your dog is upset, chances are it’s because he senses that you are upset.
