March 12th, 2025

What To Do

When should you take the opportunity to learn as much as you can, and when should you rest?

I think we all go through phases of soaking up knowledge — and so do our dogs.

In the first two years, your dog grows mentally and physically. By years three and four, you figure out what makes them happiest. After that, most of us spend the rest of our dogs' lives doing what we can to keep them happy — and in return, they give us love and joy.

Where most people struggle in training is realizing that the first few months are the hardest. Over time, it gets easier, but you’re never really done. Every new goal — like walking on a leash without pulling — can be clarified, intensified. Make it what you need so you can give your dog freedom safely.

Training never stops. As my mentor says about sheepdogs: "One year for each leg, and sometimes you count the tail too."

Learn all you can and invest the time early on, so you can enjoy a lifetime together — without major issues later.

Happy Training!

Addi and her dogs