The first installment of a two-part series; Bennie tells us three secrets to building up your dog’s self-confidence.

Show Highlights

• Your dog’s self-esteem is an important part of living a healthy and fun life.
• Not sure if your dog has good self-confidence?           
• Let’s dive into the Seven secrets to build a dog’s self-confidence.     
• Assessment – Know Your Dog:
  • • If your dog is not outgoing or prefers to lay around the house, it does NOT mean she lacks self-confidence.
  • Here are the things to look for regarding lack of confidence or social skills:
    • Body Language: A dog that will not look at you or is shy behind you when in new social situations
    • A dog that will turn away from another dog or immediately drop to the ground when around people or dogs.
    • Forcing a dog to go into a situation in which she lacks the confidence to handle can be detrimental.
    • Build up her self-esteem first and do not force her.
    • Observe how your dog’s body language in new situations.
• Basic Obedience
  • Fun and playful one-on-one time with your dog will be helpful.
  • Learning basic commands can and will boost your dog’s intellect and in turn boost her confidence.
  • You will also learn about what triggers her, when she responds best, and what she likes and dislikes.
  • All of this information builds trust and a better bond between you and your dog.
  • Find a group class or hire someone to do one-on-one basic training.
  • Do your research and talk to at least 3 different people before making a decision.  
• It Takes Time
  • • If you allow your dog to get away with things, the less trust your dog will have for you.
    • Less trust in you means she feels she is constantly guessing what you want – which leads to a drop in self-confidence.
    • Remain consistent in your rules and she will build trust in you and herself.
    • Dogs love structure, rules and your dog wants you to abide by those rules every time.  
    • This step takes TIME.
  • Consistency is only established over a long period of time.
    • First, you have to recognize how you are reacting and responding to your dog’s behavior.
    • Then, you have to know how you expect your dog to behave in that situation.
    • Finally, you have to respond appropriately to show your dog how to behave.
• Homework:
  • To start building that bond and increase your dog’s self-esteem.
  • Notice your dog in all situations.
  • Figure out as you go through your day-to-day life whether or not your dog is very confident about all of those situations or what she hesitates on.

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