APRIL 2022 Client Spotlight: Poppy

Poppy is nothing short of adorable. Her owner was concerned about her progress with potty training as well as growing the bond that they shared.

Right from the getgo, I noticed Poppy wasn’t receiving the feedback that she needed from her owner in order to be successful. We introduced a clicker that was used to mark specific behaviors that were desirable. We started the training by adding value to her name. Once we got eye contact, we clicked and followed up with a treat. We repeated this all throughout her house and immediate backyard. The next cue we introduced was “touch” which helps bridge the gap between Poppy hearing her name and coming to her owner. Now that she’s generalized these two cues, she comes running as fast as she can.

At the end of the day, Poppy’s owner was completely satisfied with her knowing two cues. Yes, she could have taken the training further but, really, all she wanted was to get Poppy to come when she was called. Sometimes, it’s best to know your limits and how much you can take on. Focusing on achieving smaller goals and then staying consistent with them is better than trying to take on too much at once.

I work with many people that would love to have their dog be an excellent walker, a polite greeter, completely independent, and to get along with others. I do not condemn these goals and believe that they are important life skills to work towards. Having said that, I’ve also seen how taking on too much can actually damage the relationship you have with your dog. When it comes to setting goals, consider the time it takes to achieve them. If you are able to consistently put in the effort, great! Take it on! Go for it! I am your biggest supporter. If not, realize that you are still a wonderful dog owner and you deserve a huge pat on the back for caring about your dog.

Perhaps in the future, Poppy could be a therapy dog or even an agility champion. She could win ribbons and inspire thousands of other dog owners to go for their dreams. If not, it’s okay, she is still magnificent and a star in our eyes and I know without a shadow of a doubt that she is loved.