It’s No One’s “Fault:” Blame-Free Dog Training

Introduction:

I know it’s popular to lay blame these days, and that it’s very popular to say, “It’s the owner’s fault that their dog has problems.” In this post we’ll discuss some things that are beyond the owner’s control, and why we will never shame you for what you did or didn’t do.

1: Genetics Matter

I’m not talking about breed differences. Some breed differences are true: retrievers are more likely to retrieve than terriers. Terriers are more likely to be independent than shepherds. Shepherds are even less likely to be protective than flock guardians. But we’re talking about individuals here: if your dog is born with brain chemistry that’s unbalanced, or comes from parents who have the same behavioral issues, there can be a genetic component to its behavior. If you’ve rescued a dog that comes from a line of street dogs, there will be a genetic component to its behavior.

2: The Physical State Matters

If your dog is in pain, has dementia, was hit by a car and has brain damage, or any other thing that affects their physical state, that’s going to change their behavior in ways you may not suspect.

3: Trauma Matters

If your dog is traumatized, especially during specific points in life, it can change the way the brain develops. I’m not talking about being attacked by a dog at 4 months old, either. I’m talking a submissive or nervous dog being over-sniffed by several dogs at once at 4 months old. For some dogs, that is enough to cause trauma.

4: Dogs Have Their Own History.

Ever adopted a dog, whether from a family member, a rescue, a shelter, or even a breeder? That dog has its own history, trauma, learning, and personality before you ever lay hands on it. The connections that dog has already made are not your fault.

5: But it’s Still the Owner’s Fault Because they Should Have Done Something Sooner… Right?

No. How about this: it is to the owner’s credit that they’re now looking for help. It’s to YOUR credit that you’re reading this right now. If something is wrong and you’re looking for help, that’s amazing. If you’ve just gotten a new puppy or dog and you’re looking for advice, that’s awesome. If none of this convinces you, how about: we’re all doing the best we can with the information we have. How can you blame someone for that?

Conclusion

It’s easy to blame people, but what’s important isn’t who’s at fault, if there is any fault. What’s important is moving forward. Finding new paths that will improve things, and working toward better results, not pointing fingers at who caused what. Communication should be positive. Let’s make life better.