WEEK 19
Does It Work for You & Your Dog?
When it comes to dog training, what works for you and your dog matters more than anyone else’s rules or opinions.
Dropping the “Shoulds” & Celebrating What Works
“Should I let my dog sleep on my bed?”
“Should my dog stay on his bed while I eat?”
“Should I not let her on the couch?”
Here’s my response every time:
Are there any safety concerns? Does it work for you, your dog, and those around you?
If the answer is no to safety concerns, and yes it works — then I’m not here to fix what isn’t broken.
If It’s Working, It’s Working
We live in a world full of shoulds and shouldn’ts when it comes to dogs.
- Don’t give them anything for free — they should work for everything.
- Don’t let them on the furniture or sleep in your bed.
- Don’t let them stop to sniff on walks.
- Don’t let them sit next to you while you eat.
However, here’s the truth:
This is your relationship.
And relationships are deeply personal, beautifully imperfect, and ever-evolving.
Unless a behavior is unsafe (for the dog, other animals, or humans), harmful, or making life harder for you or anyone in your household — there’s no rule that says you have to change it.
What Matters Most
As a trainer, my job isn’t to mold your dog into a robot—or to mold you into some picture-perfect “pack leader.” Instead, my role is to help you build a life with your dog that feels good for both of you. We focus on addressing what isn’t working, while celebrating all the things that are.
Because it’s okay to:
- Cuddle your dog on the bed if you both sleep great.
- Share couch time if you enjoy it.
- Have rituals and routines that are uniquely yours.
- Let go of the “rules” that don’t fit your life or your dog.
Additionally, your dog is a whole being—with their own history, emotions, health, and needs. And you are, too. The magic happens when we meet each other right there—with honesty, curiosity, and acceptance.
If something is working for you and your dog—really working—then let that be enough.
Let go of the noise. The shoulds will never serve you or your dog.
Trust your connection.
And if you ever need help with something that isn’t working?
I’ll be here—with compassion and zero judgment.
Because you and your dog are already doing better than you think. 💛
Related Post
Looking for ways to reinforce what you do want from your dog? Read: Capturing Behaviors – and Why “No” Doesn’t Tell Your Dog What to Do.
Learn More
Learn more about consent-based training at Fear Free Pets.
Feeling pressure from the “shoulds” and unsure if you’re doing it “right”?
📩 Reach out for a virtual consult—we’ll find what works for you.
Or leave a comment and tell me your favorite “this just works for us” ritual. I’d love to cheer you on!
P.S. Struggling with something and not sure where to start? You don’t have to figure it out alone — I offer 1:1 support to help you and your dog build calm, confidence, and connection.