Why "If My Dog Were in Your Hands, It Would Be So Much Better" Isn't the Answer

We’ll explore why you, as the owner, are the best person to train your dog

Introduction:
As a gundog trainer, I often hear the phrase, "If my dog were in your hands, it would be so much better." It’s easy to assume that a different trainer—or someone else—could magically unlock your dog’s potential. But here's the truth: building a well-trained gundog is about more than just handing over the lead. The relationship, trust, and consistent effort between you and your dog are key to success.

In this post, we’ll explore why you, as the owner, are the best person to train your dog—and how to enhance your training journey rather than thinking someone else will do it better.

The Illusion of "Better Hands"

It’s natural to compare your dog’s progress to others, especially when watching a skilled trainer work. However, the notion that your dog would excel simply by being trained by someone else can undermine the most important aspect of training: the relationship between you and your dog.

Training isn't just about methods and skills—it's about understanding your dog as an individual. As I always say, work with the dog you have in that moment. No one else knows your dog’s quirks, needs, and signals better than you.

Illustration: Imagine watching a painter and thinking, "If I gave them my brush, they would create a masterpiece with it." But the brush itself isn’t the key—it’s the time, patience, and connection that make the art. The same goes for dog training. Your dog’s success lies in the bond you build through shared experiences and consistent effort.

The Importance of Relationship-Based Training

The relationship between you and your dog is the foundation for all successful training. When you invest time and energy into learning with your dog, you're building a two-way communication system. Training methods like positive reinforcement, using cues, and encouraging confidence through gentle progression help strengthen this bond.

The relationship you form can’t be replicated by anyone else. Sure, I might be able to teach your dog to retrieve or sit to a whistle, but it won't replace the connection that will grow as you learn together.

Empowering You to Train Your Dog

My role as a trainer is not to make your dog perfect for you—it's to empower you to understand, work with, and enjoy training your dog yourself. A good trainer helps you tap into your dog’s potential by equipping you with the tools to communicate clearly and positively.

Learning how to adapt your training to meet your dog’s needs in different environments, whether in the shooting field or at home, is what truly brings out the best in both of you. Your dog responds best to you, not because I have a magic touch but because you are the constant presence in their life.

The Journey of Progress Over Perfection

Training isn’t about reaching an end goal quickly. It’s about consistent progress, meeting your dog where they are today, and celebrating small wins along the way. Take the pressure off yourself to achieve perfection and instead focus on the journey with your dog. The real magic happens when you enjoy the process together.

Conclusion
While it may seem like a professional trainer could bring out your dog’s full potential faster, the truth is that training is a partnership. The bond, understanding, and progress you build with your dog are what make the difference—not the hands holding the lead.

You are your dog’s best teacher, and by working together, you’ll achieve results that go far beyond what anyone else can offer.