In this conversation, Todd, Art, and Steve discuss Steve's experience of becoming a father and the impact it has had on his life. They also touch on the importance of understanding instincts and nature when raising children and dogs. The conversation then shifts to the topic of introducing dogs to babies and the potential risks involved. They emphasize the need for proper preparation and awareness to prevent any harm to the child. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of being a good student, understanding patterns, and providing comfort and guidance to both children and dogs.
Preparing a dog for the arrival of a baby involves establishing leadership and setting boundaries. The first step is to lead the dog and establish rules and limitations. Then, the dog needs to be taught how to interact with the baby's senses, such as sight and sound. This can be done by introducing visual and auditory stimuli associated with the baby. It is important to create positive associations and teach the dog to be calm and respectful around the baby. Avoidance is a red flag and should not be encouraged. It is crucial to continue monitoring the dog's behavior and make adjustments as the baby grows. In this final part of the conversation, the hosts discuss the importance of redirecting a dog's attention and using positive reinforcement to create a positive association with new experiences.
They also touch on the topic of teaching children to interact with dogs properly and the importance of behavior modeling. The hosts emphasize the need for dog professionals to have honest conversations with clients, even if it means discussing difficult decisions such as rehoming a dog. They also discuss the importance of self-awareness and understanding one's own energy when working with dogs. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the limitations of traditional training methods and the importance of questioning and being open-minded.
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Todd Langston- @toddlangston
Art Ortiz- @dogfitdallas
Adam Fernandez- @familydogpsychology