Hey! How’s your agility adventure going? Are you having fun this year so far with your dog?
I wanted to share this with you because it’s exactly how I’m feeling right now – and what we are all about here at Dog Central.
Dan Shaw posted today that he’d talked to a lot of stressed people at the weekend and he shared this PERFECT picture and message. It’s a little reminder for us all to have fun with our dogs, and boy, he’s soooo right! Agility is full of ups and downs, some have more ‘ups’ and some more ‘downs’ but it’s how we react that matters – and for me – unless it’s with a chuckle and an ear ruffle, then what’s the point!?
And to make you laugh a little, here’s a funny story about my ‘Perfect Piixie’ ….
She’s awesome, right? Focused & driven for her agility…?
So, we were doing some jump grids. There was a line of 3 small jumps and then a gap before the last jump.
I lined her up and recalled her over them all.
She took off : Jump, Jump, Jump………. and then …. Bumble Bee!!!
Um – WHAT??? Yep, off she went after it as it flew by!!! Totally distracted as it flew under her nose – LOL!!!
I know it’s silly and nothing terrible etc – BUT the point is – it totally made me laugh – she’s so cheeky and funny and most of all – she’s NOT A MACHINE!! I love her with all my heart no matter what she does.
I also know it’s not always that simple – some of you will be working so hard and just not getting the results that you want. But hang on a mo – does your dog have even the foggiest clue about what that means?? Nope! They are just being dogs – whatever that means to them!!
If you’re not having fun – take a moment – step back, go out for some fun walks, take a break or find someone to talk to who will inspire you to have fun again.
Remember how you felt when you first started and they did their first jump? I bet you were elated!! And I bet you were so pleased to see your dog enjoying itself – after all, it’s why you started in the first place 🙂
Happy training xxx