Can you do the splits?
I used to be able to, many, many years ago, but there’s no chance now. Even the thought makes my eyes water. I’d do myself a horrible injury and probably pop the new hip out of joint. Plus, I would never be able to get up again.
My doing the splits days are definitely over, however, one of my friends is learning to do the splits. She is nearly there and there’ll be a big celebration when she finally makes it.
I say “when” not “if” because she will do it.
When she first started, she was impatient, pushed herself too hard – and injured herself. Now, she is gradually building the skill step by tiny beetle step every day, following a plan to stretch her body carefully and slowly.
Because any learning takes time and patience.
It’s the same with dogs.
Training your dog to walk nicely on lead, to come back when called or to be quiet when told all take time, practice and patience, building the skill step by tiny beetle step. The best way is to practice a little bit every day.
We give you the simplest and quickest methods to achieve what you want with your dog – but they won’t work unless you practice.
There’s no point practising hard one day but then doing nothing for a week. Your dog might walk nicely on lead the day you focus on practising the skill – but if you allow the dog to pull for the next few days all that training will be undone.
Dogs learn what they practice regularly. As do we.
My friend is taking a picture of herself each week. She’s not only recording her improvement, seeing her progress acts as a stimulus to keep going.
Why not keep a record of your dog’s training? Mark each training session off on a calendar, make notes about what went well or badly and ask us for help if you’re struggling.
And always celebrate your progress.
Doing the same thing can get boring, I know. Come and join me for our Christmas Canine Challenge, live in our Challenge Facebook group. All the previous days videos are there, and I’ll be live each day this week with some more ideas and suggestions.
I’d love to see you! Though I can guarantee we will not be doing the splits…
Keep training and stay safe,
Carol