04/11/2025 - Training
We all know that training our dogs takes patience, consistency, and dedication. But here's what nobody tells you: the hardest part of dog ownership isn't teaching your dog to sit or stay - it's managing your own emotions when things don't go perfectly in public.
If you've ever avoided taking your dog somewhere because you're worried about how they'll behave, you're not alone. Whether it's a reactive dog, an enthusiastic puller, or a pup who just can't settle down in public, many of us find ourselves saying "I just won't do it" rather than face the potential embarrassment or stress.
The Avoidance Trap
I'll be honest with you, I'm guilty of this too. Out of my three dogs, each one has something that makes public outings challenging. Rem can't settle when we stop moving. Dave gets overexcited around people. Fred barks at both dogs and people, even though he's just trying to be friendly. My default response? Avoid the situations that trigger these behaviours.
And honestly, it makes sense. We're juggling work, family, and life responsibilities. Why add extra stress by putting ourselves in uncomfortable situations? But here's the problem: when we constantly avoid these scenarios, we never give ourselves or our dogs the chance to improve.
Breaking Free with Support
Recently, I challenged myself to do something I usually avoid. I took Rem to a pub after a long walk with my team. Would I have done this alone? Absolutely not. But having a supportive group there made all the difference. Yes, Rem needed several breaks outside. Yes, he required constant support to settle under the table. But you know what? He coped far better than I expected.
This experience reminded me of something crucial: we often need a support system to push past our comfort zones. This is exactly why group training sessions in real-world locations - cafés, pubs, trains, shops - can be so valuable. It's not that people don't know how to train their dogs; it's that they need the confidence boost and safety net that comes from having others there who understand.
The Truth About Public Perception
Here's a secret: we vastly overestimate how much other people care about what we're doing. Whilst you're convinced everyone is judging your barking dog, most people are absorbed in their own lives. Even if your dog does act up and you need to leave quickly, does it really matter in the grand scheme of things?
Start Small, But Start
I'm not suggesting you throw your dog into situations they can't handle. But I am challenging you to recognise when they're ready for that next step and to stop holding yourself back because you remember how things used to be rather than seeing how they are now.
Start small. Sit in a quiet pub garden for ten minutes instead of committing to a full dinner. Build your confidence gradually. The key is to keep pushing, even if it's just a tiny bit at a time.
Your dog will never succeed in these areas if you constantly avoid them. And neither will you. So take a deep breath, find your support system, and step out of that comfort zone.
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