I want the dog to make mistakes!

I want the dog to make mistakes!!! Wait... what? Yup, once I’ve shown the dog what to do I want them to make the mistakes they need to make in order to fully understand the concepts and commands. Think of this in terms of our own human learning, we can read about how to drive a car in a book and think we understand. But it’s not until we get behind the wheel and make a few mistakes, get a speeding ticket or a parking ticket that we truly understand the rules of the road in each context. Dogs need the same real life experience which is why I never prevent (or manage) them from making mistakes during their learning process. That just wouldn’t serve them very well. Mistakes are wonderful... they are the golden opportunities that allow us all to grow and transform ourselves into something better. They are the gateway to developing new skills and self improvement. Simply managing behaviour and avoiding mistakes in life is the best way for our dogs to stay stuck and below their full potential. Expect more from a dog and just watch him grow!