Take a Step Back

Daily thought... never be afraid to take a step or two backwards in training if the dog seems confused or isn’t responding correctly when you switch handlers. Just like our dogs are all different and unique individuals, we as handlers are also very unique and different ... we each have our own ‘dialect’ and sometimes when a dog is used to only working with and responding to one particular handler, they can get a little disoriented when handed off to a new person. This is normal ... it’s like the differences found within the English language.

England, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland are all English speaking areas but they each have very different and distinctive dialects which can make it difficult to understand what is being said... even though it’s all English! That is, of course, until you’re around it for a few days and get used to it. Dogs can feel the same way when a different person takes the leash. This isn’t disobedience on the dogs part... it’s genuine confusion. So never be afraid to take a step back and show the dog what you mean, what you want and what your expectations if the dog initially doesn’t understand your ‘dialect’ because more communication and guidance is ALWAYS helpful.

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