They aren’t called “human’s best friends” for nothing. Dogs have a way of wiggling their way right into our hearts. Those sloppy kisses, those tail wags, the way they run up to the door to greet us… what more could we want? Oh yes… we want Fido to not pee on the floor. We want to walk with them without the leash pulls. We don’t want aggressive behavior or an anxious dog that barks non-stop (and annoys the neighbors). You can have the perfect pet; all you need is the right canine handler to show you the way.

Did you know that most dogs that are rehomed or taken to a shelter are for discipline issues that could have been trained out? Here is how a canine handler changes the relationship with you and your dog.

Understand Your Dog

The language barrier is overcome when you understand your dog’s motivations and cues, and the dog understands yours. Since you don’t speak “dog” and your pet doesn’t speak “human,” the canine handler shows you both how to bridge this gap. Using visuals, cues, treats, and developing an understanding of dog psychology is the first step in training. With this understood, every aspect of the obedience part of training goes faster and smoother.

Socialize with Your Dog

If your dog is truly part of your family, you don’t want to lock it away in a room when the company is over or get yourself banned from the dog park. A socialized dog can go places with you and behaves when you have guests. The more accepted your dog feels in the family, the more it will behave. If it feels like an accessory or unwanted, the dog will develop undesirable behaviors to either punish you for leaving it out of the social circle, or it may become needy for your attention. Canine handlers help you socialize your dog so it can be a full part of your life.

Potty Training

This is a big one! Nobody wants to be cleaning dog mess up off the floor everyday. Your dog also does not want to do its business inside. Canine handlers show dog owners how to properly potty train the dog, and help you understand how many times a day (and night) you can expect to be doing the potty time outside.

Leash Walking

Like socializing, your dog must learn how to walk on a leash if it is going to be a full part of your life. This is for the safety of both you and your dog. A dog that startles and dashes into traffic, is too enthusiastic and jumps on passersby, is naturally aggressive, and lunges at other dogs and people is not a dog you can take in public. Learning how to walk beside you without bolting but also responding promptly to commands that ensure its safety is a crucial skill for any dog. A canine handler is a perfect teacher for this vital skill.

Begging

“Puppy dog eyes” are a real thing and it takes phenomenal willpower to resist them. However, when you give into whatever the dog is begging for, you create a cycle. The dog throws up that adorable begging face, you give in, and the next thing you know you can’t cook or work or relax without having to provide a treat or a walk. Your dog “asking” you for something is fine – it is a two way friendship after all. But learning to successfully beg is not good for either of you. A canine handler will help both of you set boundaries so your dog can feel free to “ask” but also understand when you say “no.” You may get a puppy dog pout instead of puppy dog eyes, but ultimately not begging is best for your relationship.

Work with a Canine Handler Today

Dogs are not “plug and play.” They are beings with their traits and personalities. Even an easy-going dog needs training, and puppies always need to learn their manners. Work with a canine handler that will help you and your dog learn to have a paw-some time together. This canine handler helps you both understand each other, bridging the communication gap so a strong and lasting bond can be achieved.