Dogs are highly perceptive animals and are sensitive to their owners' emotions and energy. They have a remarkable ability to pick up on subtle cues from humans, including body language, tone of voice, and overall energy in their environment. Your energy and demeanor can significantly influence your dog's behavior and well-being.
1. It starts with you: Dogs can sense when their owners are calm or anxious. If you're feeling stressed, anxious, or angry, your dog may mirror those emotions and become anxious or nervous themselves. Conversely, if you're calm, confident and assertive, it can help create a sense of security and peace for your dog. So many times people want calm puppies yet they raise their voices and squeal when they see the puppy. This sends confusing messages to the puppy at an early age. Dogs will typically match the energy of their environment and the people in it. Make sure you are demonstrating what a calm, assertive and confident pack leader looks like.
2. Training and behavior: Your energy also plays a crucial role in training and shaping your dog's behavior. Dogs respond better to positive reinforcement and clear, consistent communication. If you're consistent, patient, and assertive, your dog will be more likely to understand and follow your commands and more receptive to those commands. Begin training the minute your puppy comes home because they are looking to see what is expected and allowed in their new environment, they look to you (their pack leader) for this information. If your puppy starts to display behavior consistently that you do not care for, check in with yourself first. Make sure you are demonstrating the energy that serves the dog well and that benefits you.
3.Boundaries and trust: Dogs will behave in a way that allowed by their owners. Start setting boundaries early with your puppy. You puppy is discovering the world for the first time and it is exciting. They will need guidance along the way so they know what are acceptable and safe ways to behave. Teaching boundaries like staying in your yard or waiting at the door when it opens not only are good manners, these behaviors could save their life one day. It is your job to establish these boundaries early.
Always keep in mind the importance of being aware of your own energy and emotions when interacting with your dog. Creating a calm, positive, and nurturing environment can have a significant impact on your dog's well-being and behavior