Resolve Your Client’s Problem

Q:  Help! I’m frustrated and ready to tear my hair out!

I’m working with a difficult dog training case right now, and it seems the dog is not improving. The owner is upset and the dog continues to try to bite me! What should I do?

A: Every dog trainer has those moments so don’t get frustrated. 🙂

Sometimes, I’m too close to a client and her dog so I need to gather different perspectives from other dog trainers.

If I notice a dog is not improving during or after one session, it’s my job to stop and find what will work for this particular dog or puppy.

1. Videotape your training sessions.

Once home, play back in slow motion. You’ll be shocked at specific body language that you or the pet parents are using that triggers the dog. By watching this video, you’ll see what really happens, as dogs are fast. Plus, when you’re feeling stressed, as you want to show results quickly and the pet parents are frustrated, this can be a hot mess of confusion for all, especially the dog. I hate to say this, but this is all too common. You are not alone. 🙂

2. Once you arrive at your client’s home, take 5 slow deep breaths.

Yes, we hold tension. Shallow breathing, holding our breath, and tense shoulders become a cue to the dog that something bad is going to happen. Plus, you’ll let go of all that stress.

3. Refer the dog to a veterinary behaviorist.

These folks work with difficult cases everyday! Once the referral has been completed, the veterinary behaviorist will recommend protocols at home (this is a vital part of teaching new behaviors). This is where you come in: you will be this expert’s eyes and ears. If any questions, partner with him. I wish more dog trainers used this option as we could resolve difficult cases so much quicker.