There is a motto in the dog training world that goes something like this: “You don’t necessarily get the dog you want, you get the dog you need.” It is so true. Each dog I’ve had the pleasure of sharing my heart and home with has indeed brought something very special to my life. On top of the requisite cuddles, kisses, and oodles of laughter, there are life lessons as well.
November is a time for gratitude and giving. Dogs enrich our lives in so many ways. This month I’d like to share some musings on the gifts we receive from our dogs, and I encourage you to take a moment to graciously remember and give thanks to the dogs of your life, as well.
My sweet Charlie Brown (aka Boo)
From the very first time I saw you as a pup at the dog show I knew we were meant to be together. I may have been only 5 years old, and you a young pup of 8 weeks, but our hearts and souls connected immediately. You were my best friend from kindergarten through high school and taught me the joys of sharing life with a dog. I cried into your fur at my first heartbreak and told you my childish secrets and dreams. You taught me about the loyalty of a dog and, in the end, how to selflessly and gracefully say goodbye to an old friend.
Dear Ivan (aka Bubs)
You were my first dog as an adult and together we learned about dog training. Initially I was told to do nasty things to you in the name of obedience and leadership, and regrettably I complied. I’m terribly sorry about that, and it did affect our relationship for a little while. Through it all, you maintained your humor and dignity, and you helped me find mine. My love drove me to continue to search for kinder, gentler methods for communicating with you. You taught me the invaluable lessons of forgiveness and how to train with respect and kindness over compulsion and cruelty.
Mr. Oliver Twist (aka Little)
You came into my life as a shelter dog and companion for Ivan. The first lesson you taught me was that shelter dogs rock! My only regret was that I did not have the pleasure of knowing you as a pup; you must have been the cutest little guy ever. You did nothing at half-measure, and your joie de vivre was contagious. In the end you taught me to live life to the fullest and to always express myself clearly.
To Claude (aka Claudey)
You came into our family as an adult dog with lots of issues. Everyone agreed you were a handsome beast, but nobody could get close enough to touch you because of your handling and biting issues. Training you and watching your transformation from a fearful growler to a tolerant, understated gentleman taught me about the courage it takes to rebound from adversity, and that one truly can teach an old dog new tricks, giving him a new sense of security in the bargain.
Dearest Dune (aka Monkey)
Wow, we’ve learned a lot together and the ride is not over yet. When I got you I thought that all my years of experience would finally allow me to start fresh with a puppy and create the “perfect” dog. We’d cross-train for many sports and you’d be the best-trained, most social creature on the planet! No pressure, right? Wrongo. Training you has taught me to work to a dog’s individual strengths and desires, to set aside my preconceptions and set each dog up for success. In other words, I’ve learned to enjoy the journey and not worry so much about the destination, to drop my ego and perfectionism and just have a blast with my dog.
Bonjour Monsieur Hugo-Louis (aka Lou)
My little man. My bright star. Never have I met a dog (or human, for that matter) with such a positive, can-do attitude. You are ever the optimist and up for anything. Being small has never stopped you from trying any task. Your work ethic and ability to let adversity roll off your back are truly inspiring. I can only hope that by hugging and kissing you every day, some of your Hugo-dust will rub off on me – because I want to be just like you when I grow up!
Zou Zou (aka Saucy Minx)
Our adventure is just beginning, but so far I’m thankful for the burst of energy and humor you’ve brought into our home. You are a bit of a clown and it’s a delight to train you. Your personality keeps everything light and fun. Your feminine energy has helped balance out our very masculine household and the boys sure do appreciate how you groom and mother them. I look forward to making new memories with you that will last a lifetime.
Kelly Gorman Dunbar is Director of the Center for Applied Animal Behavior, where she recruits and trains the instructors for the Dunbar family business, SIRIUS® Puppy & Dog Training. She is the creator of the SIRIUS Sniffers scent-detection program, and is in the process of bringing the French sport of cavage (truffle hunting) to the US. Kelly is also Founder and President of Open Paw and consults on various matters.
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