05/09/2026
One walk yesterday really stayed with me.
I watched a young dog who was loving every second of being outβsniffing, looking around and taking in the world. Each time the lead became tight, he was pulled back and told off.
The last time I saw it happen, he licked his lips and seemed unsure what he was supposed to do.
Today, my training session with young Bonnie looked very different.
We headed to an enclosed field where we took away the pressure of traffic, other dogs and people. We simply rewarded check-ins, celebrated the choice to walk with us and played fun recall games.
That is how relationships grow.
Walks aren't about perfect heelwork every second. They're about helping our dogs feel safe, understood and involved. When dogs learn that checking in with us is rewarding, we're building trust and bonds that help create togetherness on walks.
Connection first. The walking follows. π
RelationshipFirst DishysK9Care