Embracing Consistency Over Perfection in Dog Training

In the world of dog training, the pursuit of perfection can often become a stumbling block for many dog owners. In a recent episode of the Kindred Dog Podcast, Ruben Montes delves into the importance of consistency over perfection, sharing insights from over 11 years of dog training experience. By shifting our mindset from flawless execution to regular, steadfast practice, we can foster better relationships with our furry friends and achieve training success.

The Perfection Trap: the misconception that they must train their dogs perfectly. This belief often leads to frustration and feelings of inadequacy when things don't go as planned. He emphasizes that dogs don’t need perfect training; they need consistency. "Your dog doesn't need perfect, they need consistent," he states, underscoring that even showing up 60% of the time is better than not showing up at all.

The Journey of Training: Training a dog isn't merely about reaching a destination; it’s about the journey and the learning that happens along the way. As Ruben notes, both the owner and the dog are learning simultaneously, and this process takes time and patience. He draws parallels with his jiu-jitsu training, explaining how mastering a move takes repeated practice and often comes with initial failure. The same applies to dog training—improvement comes with repeated effort over time.

Building Consistent Behavior: Consistency in training involves establishing clear rules and boundaries. Ruben advises dog owners to maintain consistent expectations for their dogs, whether it's waiting at the door or being calm in various situations. For instance, if an owner sometimes allows their dog to rush through the door but at other times requires them to wait, the dog becomes confused about what is expected. Creating a predictable environment leads to better behavior and understanding between owner and dog.

Small Steps Lead to Big Changes:. Instead of overwhelming yourselves with high expectations, owners should aim for small daily practices, like five minutes of play or training. He recalls reading about the "compound effect," where small changes can lead to significant results over time. For example, cutting down on soda intake gradually can lead to healthier habits without the pressure of immediate perfection.

Allowing Grace in the Process: One of the most crucial concepts Ruben shares is the need for grace during the training process. Both owners and dogs will have off days, and it's essential to accept that not every training session will go perfectly. He encourages dog owners to embrace the learning curve and allow themselves to make mistakes. This mindset fosters a more enjoyable experience for both the owner and the dog.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the journey of dog training is less about achieving perfection and more about remaining consistent and open to learning. Here are the key takeaways:

1. Focus on being consistent in your training efforts rather than striving for perfection.

2. Embrace the Journey: Understand that dog training is a process that requires time, patience, and learning from mistakes.

3. Set Realistic Goals: Aim for small, achievable goals that can lead to significant progress over time.

4. Give Yourself Grace: Allow room for mistakes and off days, recognizing that both you and your dog are learning together.