April 4th, 2025

Constructive Feedback

What is constructive feedback? Why do we need it? And how can it help our dogs?

I flinched when I picked this topic. Who am I to talk about feedback? I cry the moment someone starts critiquing me—telling me what I could’ve done better or should try next time.

I’ve had full-on meltdowns while someone was just trying to help.

Rylee and Emma playing on March 16, 2025

But that’s the thing—constructive feedback is help. It’s not a personal attack. It’s guidance meant to highlight strengths and weaknesses, while offering actionable insights. It’s what pushes us forward and helps us reach goals we couldn’t reach alone.

I still cry sometimes when I get feedback. But it happens less now. I try to take what’s useful, leave what’s not, and apply what makes sense for me and my dogs. I can’t improve if I don’t know what needs work.

Herding sheep is humbling on its own. Add in a skilled mentor who’s willing to give you honest feedback—and suddenly, you’re not even sure what your name is. But the magic that follows? That’s dog training at its finest.

Happy training.

Addi and The Girls