Have you been investing enough in your dog's emotional bank account? Yesterday, while teaching my kids' 4-H class, we delved into the importance of engagement, likening it to a bank account. This is often overlooked or not fully grasped by many.

In the past two decades, there's been significant progress in how we communicate with our canine companions. Twenty years ago, considerations of the animal's emotional state were minimal. But much like technological advancements, our methods have evolved each year, becoming more refined.

If you've worked with me before, you know that enhancing the relationship between you and your dog is a primary focus. Many pet owners mistake mere time spent with their dog for genuine engagement. It reminds me of a scene from the movie "I, Robot" where a futuristic robot effortlessly walks ten dogs. Some customers feel they're engaging with their dogs simply by taking them on multiple walks. While walks are beneficial exercise, they don't necessarily strengthen the bond. True engagement involves activities where both you and your dog participate actively, like playing tug-of-war, hide-and-seek, agility, and other interactive games.

Why is engagement crucial? Think of it as making deposits into your metaphorical bank account. Every time you engage with your dog, you're investing. Spending ten minutes twice a day, consistently, means by the week's end, you've dedicated at least eight hours to strengthening your bond. In dog training, there are two aspects: the mechanical and the emotional. The mechanical side focuses on how we teach the dog to move physically, ensuring smooth transitions in commands. The emotional side is about fostering your dog's willingness to participate and enjoy training. When you engage in basic commands, you're essentially making withdrawals from this account. However, if the foundation of engagement isn't solid, formal training can become challenging, and the dog may not respond as desired.

So, the next time you feel frustrated with your dog's behavior, ask yourself: How often do I engage with my dog in meaningful activities? Spending just ten minutes a day on interactive play can significantly improve your dog's receptiveness to basic commands.