Too Cool To Train

Among the most important things we try to focus on in training is to get our dog to connect / look into our eyes. All too often I see people training their dogs wearing sunglasses. I should make myself clear, the people are wearing sunglasses while training their dogs :) This might not appear to be a big deal to the average person, but it is a huge deal to your dog.

I'm not sure if you are like me, but when I talk to someone I like to look into their eyes, well dogs feel the same way. In fact, there was a study which showed that dogs actually watch the movement of our eyes, and since our eyes are almond shaped, the dog will look for the whites of the eyes when following the movement of our eyes. If you are wearing shades you look like a big fly to your dog. Some dogs may even become spooked by people wearing sunglasses if they stare at the dog for a while.

The point I want to address here is that when training a dog do not wear sunglasses. you are placing a huge barrier between you and your dog and you are not giving him a fair chance to connect and succeed. If it's a sunny day, you'll have to bear it, you can opt for a visor or a hat. This is not to say that you can't wear sunglasses if you're walking your dog or playing with him. This rule only holds fast if you are training him, teaching him and engaging him, especially when you first begin training (then it is paramount). Giving your dog the target of your eyes gives him the ability to connect with you on a much higher level and allows him to succeed!

Happy training,

Robert