Pastor-ized Cheesy

Dear Dog Lady,

I am currently enrolled in school to become a certified dog trainer. I am almost through my course and have been getting lots of questions from friends and co-workers about their dogs and their situations. When I am through listening to them and I analyze the problem, I then proceed to offer my insight and suggestions. I try to do this very carefully of course -- because humans in general do not take criticism well.

For example, my pastor and his wife asked me a question about their Aussie [Australian terrier] and it was a fairly easy answer because their situation is a fairly common problem. When I gave them my suggestion about how to fix their dog’s behavior, they both kind of "argued" with me -- not really all-out fighting or yelling, but just defensive. They were trying to tell me it couldn't happen with their dog. I tried to word the answer differently, but I don't think it worked. I have a nasty feeling this owner defensiveness will be a bigger problem than I want. Got any suggestions?

Laura, Wisconsin

Laura, go for it, girl. Dog Lady urges you simply to assume the position of top dog with your pupils, human and canine. You’re the one who’s going to school to become a certified dog trainer. Now, you must train the people – a much harder job.

Dog Lady knows from experience that some dog keepers don’t like to hear the problems with their pets are often -- nay, almost always -- caused by human folly. Your pastor was prickly because, yes, he was being defensive. But from your mouth to God’s and a dog’s ear. Your pastor, presumably, can preach a sermon. He knows nuthin’ about birthin’ good manners in his Aussie. Be calm, confident, and unflappable when dispensing training tips. Even if the humans don’t get it, the dogs will

Posted by Dog Lady at February 26, 2005 04:14 PM