Successful Canine Parenting
It all depends on how you prepare them for the world.
Raising a well-mannered dog starts with understanding, communication, and consistency.
Whether you’re raising your first puppy or you’ve been a lifelong dog lover, successful canine parenting is about more than just commands and treats. It’s about building a relationship based on respect, trust, and clear communication.
Here are some simple rules to help you raise a calm, confident, and well-mannered dog:
🧠 Understand Your Dog’s Perspective – Be Fair
Dogs aren’t trying to be naughty — they’re opportunists. They don’t operate with a sense of “right or wrong,” but rather “safe or unsafe.” They live in the moment and explore the world through their senses, especially their mouths.
Don't expect them to know your expectations unless you teach them calmly and clearly.
Remember: being fair starts with understanding.
👩🏫 Be a Good Teacher
Set your dog up for success by controlling what they learn. Instead of focusing on what you don’t want them to do, spend more time reinforcing what you do want. Teach them the correct behaviours and reward those frequently.
If your dog jumps to say hello, ask for a sit instead — then reward that choice.
📢 Communicate Clearly
Your job is to mark the moment your dog gets it right. The more consistently you reward appropriate behaviour, the faster your dog will learn.
Catch them doing something good and let them know with praise, treats, or play!
🔁 Be Consistent
Dogs thrive on predictability. If one day they’re allowed on the couch and the next day they’re scolded for it, they get confused. Inconsistency leads to anxiety, stress, and potentially behavioural issues.
Decide on your house rules and stick to them — everyone in the household should be on the same page.
🛡️ Be Your Dog’s Advocate
Your dog doesn’t speak your language, and the world can be overwhelming — especially for puppies. It’s your job to read their body language and step in when a situation might be too much.
Example: A group of excited kids running toward your dog might be too intense. Intervene early to prevent a negative experience from forming.
Canine Characteristics 101
Understanding who dogs are at their core will help you become a better teacher and companion.
🧭 Dogs are amoral – They don’t understand “right” and “wrong.” They understand what feels safe and what doesn’t.
🥇 Dogs are opportunists – If the garbage is accessible and no one’s watching, it’s fair game!
🧍♂️ Dogs are self-centred – It’s not rude, it’s just survival instinct.
🤝 Dogs are social – They crave connection and companionship.
🎓 Dogs are always learning – Every action has a consequence, and they’re constantly evaluating what “works.”
🐾 Dogs explore with their mouths – Chewing isn’t misbehaviour, it’s curiosity.
🧬 Dogs have breed-specific instincts – Know your dog’s heritage. A herder wants to herd. A terrier wants to dig. A retriever wants to retrieve.
Final Thoughts
Your dog isn’t trying to give you a hard time — they’re often just trying to make sense of a human world with canine instincts.
Be fair. Be clear. Be consistent. And most importantly — be their guide, advocate, and biggest cheerleader.
Together, you’ll build a relationship based on mutual understanding and respect.
And that’s what makes you a successful canine parent. 🐶💛