First, we must prioritize our relationship with the dog. If the handler-canine relationship is degraded, we will see training regression and have behavioral issues with our dogs. When we have a great relationship with our dog, we will see training efficiency and get more out of our dogs. Second, we need to define clear expectations for our dogs. When dogs know what we expect, we remove stress and anxiety from their lives. If clear expectations have not been defined around guests entering the home, traveling in the car, or what to do during dinner time, we will see reactivity in the dog due to uncertainty. Lastly, we learn to communicate fluently with the dog. When we can communicate with our dogs, we can hold the dog accountable to our expectations, challenge the dog through training to promote confidence and get the dog to make decisions in absence of a handler (advanced obedience).
