Goals

I have been thinking a lot about goals this week as we look forward to the next term of classes starting on 26 October 2021. I love my dogs; I love studying, training, and working with people and their dogs, building solid foundations and helping them thrive. I am people's biggest cheerleader when it comes to their successes, but let's face it is often the little things that make us proud. I feel we think goals need to be big to be worthy of celebration, but I think we should celebrate the small stuff, the things that make us smile.

I was thinking about this as I was out walking my dogs, watching them mooch about, sniffing, exploring with the occasional burst of excitement when a squirrel was spotted.

Coming back to me when called, choosing to be with me, and enjoying being out together. It was so peaceful, and I was so content and thought, 'this is everything I wanted when I got a dog' this was always my goal, to be able to go out and enjoy a walk, and everything else is just icing on the cake.

Think about your goal; it could be achieving your Bronze obedience award, hoopers, agility, Scent work. You may want to compete with your dogs, go to Crufts, travel the country, or you may just want to go for a walk without being dragged everywhere. It doesn't matter what your goal is; it is all worth celebrating.

Make a plan; how are you going to achieve your goal? What are the steps? It can be challenging; there is no magic wand; it takes work. Behaviours don't change overnight. Dogs are sensitive, clever souls with a mind of their own, and their idea of a fun walk may often be different from yours! The first step to achieving success is to make a start, be consistent, be generous with praise and rewards. Keep it positive, and remember having a dog is meant to be fun.

If you are struggling, we offer 1-2-1 support, Puppy classes, and general obedience. Get in touch info@bark-ology.co.uk and take the first step to achieve your goals.