Q is for Quintessential Dogs

Q is for QUINTESSENTIAL DOGS. You have a quintessential dog when they represent the most perfect companion FOR YOU. The nice thing about dog training is that it's not one-size-fits-all. You get to pick what you want your dog to be able to do and you get to decide what 'annoying' behaviors you are willing to live with.

It constantly amazes me how well our dogs adapt themselves to living in our 'normal' world (which is totally crazy for them!). But dogs are one of the most intelligent and adaptable creatures that we share our lives with. So they are more than ready to play whatever training 'game' we have devised and learn whatever behavior we think appropriate. Many people get stuck on what they don't want their dog to do, instead of focusing on what behaviors they would like to see. Saying no doesn't give the dog any information about what you would like instead, so try to be proactive and set your dog up for success. The more they are successful they more they will continue that behavior :).

River says he's trying to be a
quintessential companion.

But it all comes down to a simple question: how badly do you want to change your dog's behavior? Only those with true commitment and dedicated motivation will succeed in creating their quintessential dog. Your full commitment is required to get over whatever behavioral hump is in your way and don't forget to visualize your ultimate goal. Seeing it is the first step to believing it :).

So motivate yourself to practice with your dog every day. Remember to keep it FUN! Dogs aren't robots :), but with commitment, patience, practice, and positive reinforcement, you'll start seeing results within a short time span.

If you already have your quintessential dog I'd love to hear more about them in the comments below. If you are still working towards your definition of perfection :), how is it coming along?