September 20, 2009

When humans bring a dog into their lives, they are most often looking for a companion; what they may not realize is that they are getting a teacher as well.

One of the most valuable lessons my dogs have taught me is how to have a healthy relationship. In any relationship - human-canine, human-human, human-pachyderm � you cannot have the bond you are looking for unless you fulfill the others' needs. If you're not giving your dog what he requires, he'll let you know by chewing your shoes, jumping up on your guests, pulling on the walk, or one of many other behavior problems. It's not malicious. He's just finding another way to meet the needs programmed in him by Mother Nature. In order to fulfill one another, we need to look outside ourselves and really understand what the other needs and how their psychology works. That's the foundation for a balanced, healthy relationship with any species.

But that's not all dogs have to teach us. They educate us about the value of consistency. If you apply Exercise, Discipline, then Affection every day without fail, your dog will reward you with loyal companionship. And they show us how to live life to the fullest by being balanced and celebrating every moment.

Through my pack, I have experience birth, life, and death, and they have shared fundamental lessons about going through this natural life cycle. How do they pass from one phase to the next? How do they stay together all their lives as a family? They have taught me to value the simplicity of life itself. They intensify every moment that I am with them. And for that, I am eternally grateful.

Stay calm and assertive!

Cesar Millan

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