Time is our most precious resource. Time is also a variable to accomplishing our goals. Time is one of the dimensions that influences our own behavior and the behavior of others.
We can easily see the many aspects of time with our dogs. As we watch our puppies grow we can see time related developmental stages the dog goes through. Also in puppies we can observe the rhythm of daily cycles. If we pay close attention we can use these daily rhythms to manage behavior. When we’re aware of the effect time has on our dogs it will be easier to notice the effect time has in our own lives.
Timing is one of the most important elements of training a dog. We need to use controlling signals and rewards at the right time or many training techniques won’t work. The need for proper timing is even more critical with animals other than dogs. I have had experience training cats and rats and both require very good timing. Dogs are somewhat more forgiving than our other animal friends.
As I work through the Dog Days of Summer program I am seeing how difficult it is to work an extra two hours into my life. For most people that participate in this program the time commitment will be significantly less.
I have found that as I contemplate major changes in my life I need time to decide how I will implement them. Yesterday I needed to take some time just to think about changes I’ve been considering since about the second or third day of this year’s Dog Days of Summer development program.
Wishing you the best in dogs and in life,
Andrew Ledford