02/03/2024
California Jazz aka Cali, 1 week shy of 10 months!
She’s getting so big. She’s not growing in height or length, but is starting to get into her “teenager” phase and her mass is starting to slowly grow.
This is the moment where I believe the earlier training that I started at 8 weeks old, really pays off! In my experience, the “teenager” phase is the easiest to start making mistakes, because (at least Patterdale’s) tend to constantly “test” you.
Keeping it consistent, with clear communication (especially body language), having rules and boundaries that always apply, providing a structured environment with the right level of stimulation (both mental and physical, offering affection and attention at the appropriate times and working with a max. 80/20 ratio on reward/correction within a max. 1.3 second reaction time are all really important for creating a great respectful and trustworthy relationship with her!
It won’t be easy or always smooth sailing, but it builds a strong foundation for a long and lasting relationship with her.
I’ve encountered some amazing new people and trainers in the past few years! Giving me new perspectives and experiences as a trainer. Which have helped me to improve my own skills and become even better.
No one will ever be the best, because it would mean there’s nothing left to improve!
I had a person who was in a “teaching” position, but instead of wanting to discuss differences or alternative perspectives, the person just made assumptions, false claims, belittled any question or argument and even tried to bully those who didn’t just blindly listen and follow them. Someone in that position should be open to debate and inspire thought-provoking discussions. To think that a person that is so narrow minded is allowed into such a position is beyond my comprehension. Condemning every other technique as wrong and stupid, just makes them seem egocentric and ignorant, as well as unprofessional and honestly also unknowable.
I learned what I never want to become! Also because most of the “facts” what they presented where in almost complete contrast to what actually has been proven. Because if you just pick and choose what to believe in, then you aren’t actually basing it on facts, just the “facts” you chose that suit you.
I think having the openness to listen to other trainers, constantly learning more, refining and evolving your own techniques is very powerful and beneficial. Not just to one’s own success, but for the entire community of trainers. Instead of fighting about the differences and who does what wrong etc. I see it much more beneficial to come together rather than trying to seek out everyone’s flaws!
Choose knowledge, expand your horizons!
Have a great weekend everyone!
-Dom
