Patience is the Key

Patience is the Key to Rehabilitation

I've found that one of the most important traits you can have as a canine professional is patience. Often, you have to work with the dog over and over until he gets it. Sure, sometimes a behavior change can be quick, but even then, it requires follow-through. You can't revert back to your old behavior, or the dog will, too!

It's important to remember that rehabilitation is a process – not a quick fix. You need to send a clear and consistent message 24/7 and 365 days a year. The behavior change won't necessarily happen overnight. You have to celebrate the progress along the way and know that success is in the dog's future!

In our multi-tasking, instant access world, many of us have little patience. If this is true of you, look at it like this: your dog is giving you an opportunity to work on your development as a human being! Take the skills you are learning with him and apply it to other areas in your life. Be patient with your friends, family members, co-workers, and even complete strangers. You may find yourself a happier person for it.

Stay calm and assertive,
Cesar Millan