In a previous post, I wrote about the typical signs of Early Training, and I would like to add a very similar issue. I have been encountering this topic more and more during the trainings, and I believe it has a significant impact on both handlers and dogs. Unfortunately, it is not approached in a very positive way… and honestly, I am very angry about such manifestations.
And here’s the next one: You have to prove yourself!
I think many of us have heard this “slogan” before.
But how does this affect us, and how negative can the energetics of this be? Many people hear this when, for example, they switch from a show dog to a working dog, or when they were successful with their first dog and have expectations for the second one. Is this correct? I believe that this is a hobby, and nobody needs to prove anything unless they want to do it for themselves. Trust me, this is not your problem; it is the problem of those who emphasize this.
However, in the early stages, it simply poisons your work and relationship with your dog. You put increasing pressure on them, raise your expectations, and they may not be at the mental level to handle this pressure yet. It may not manifest immediately, but perhaps after a year, and by then, it may be too late to correct it. It becomes ingrained like a bad habit, and your dog will exhibit negative behavior patterns such as jumping, whining, or, in extreme cases, aggression. The tasks become increasingly difficult because you feel the need to prove yourself. But to whom? Where are you rushing? Does it really matter if you reach a competition at one or one and a half years old? I don’t think so… it is not significant. Moreover, every dog is different, especially as a beginner, you cannot know how your dog will handle this. Find someone to work with if you don’t have a specific plan and progress together. But don’t succumb to pressure; believe me, it will pay off. The person you work with will let you know when the time is right for a competition or a serious task. Trust in them!
This is really a beautiful sport, whether you’re involved in hunting or working with dummies. It allows for the development of a fantastic bond with your dog, and it’s truly spectacular when that connection is really established. It’s natural for everyone to have a desire to succeed in competitions and training, and that’s perfectly fine. However, it’s important to keep things in perspective and not let the desire to prove oneself turn into a negative habit of focusing only on others or seeking validation from others. Just like in other aspects of life, there will always be impatient individuals who criticize or unknowingly cause harm with their comments due to their own insecurities. I believe the key is to do what makes you happy, seek the company of people who enjoy working with dogs and support you. You know, energies attract each other, whether positive or negative. So, surround yourself with the positive, and you’ll find yourself more relaxed during training sessions and competitions, and your dog will be much more balanced as well.
Csaba Karai
retriever trainer
11 April 2023
great written!!👌