The Hidden Power of Your Energy in Gundog Training - The Missing PeaceWhen it comes to training your gundog, most owners are focused on the dog. They think about techniques for recall, cues for loose lead walking, and strategies for building engagement. But one of the biggest secrets to successful gundog training doesn’t lie in what you do with your dog—it’s all about what’s happening with you. As a Holistic Gundog Specialist, I often work with owners who are struggling to get their gundogs to listen, especially when they’re outdoors and surrounded by distractions. They might have tried reward-based techniques, or they’ve worked on cues, but there’s still something missing. That’s where a holistic approach comes in. Why Your Energy Matters One of the most overlooked aspects of dog training is the impact your energy and mindset have on your dog’s behaviour. Dogs are highly intuitive —they pick up on our emotions, our stress levels, and even our body language in ways we don’t always notice. So when you're tense, frustrated, or distracted, your dog feels it. This can make a dog more anxious, less responsive, or even more hyperactive. Recently, I was invited by another dog trainer to give a webinar on mindset, energy, visualisations etc. One of the participants asked a really insightful question: How do you focus on the dog during training? My answer? You need to focus on yourself first. Your Mindset Shapes Their Behaviour When we’re calm, confident, and centred, our dogs pick up on that energy. They feel more secure, more connected, and more likely to respond to us. In the webinar, I explained how tools like affirmations and visualisations can help you shift your mindset. Instead of focusing on everything that’s going wrong, you start focusing on what’s going right—and that shift can change everything for your dog. For example, if you’re working on loose lead walking and your dog pulls ahead, instead of getting frustrated, try pausing and centering yourself. Take a deep breath, visualise your dog walking calmly beside you, and reset your energy. Your dog will notice this shift in you and is far more likely to respond positively. Practical Steps to Bring Holistic Training Into Your Routine Here are three steps you can take today to start showing up better for your dog:1. Affirmations – Create positive affirmations that remind you of your dog’s potential and your own ability to train calmly. Something like, "We’re a team, and we walk together in harmony" can set a positive tone.2. Visualisations – Before heading out for a training session, take a moment to visualise the ideal outcome. Picture your dog calmly walking beside you or coming back on command with enthusiasm.3. Energy Check – Throughout the day, check in with yourself. Are you feeling stressed or rushed? Take a moment to reset before you engage with your dog, ensuring your energy is calm and positive. The Difference Holistic Training Makes By focusing on your own mindset and energy, you’ll start to see changes in how your dog responds to you. This approach doesn’t replace positive reinforcement or reward-based techniques; it enhances them by building a deeper connection between you and your dog. You’ll find that your dog is not just following commands, but truly engaging with you. If you’re struggling with recall, loose lead walking, or general engagement with your gundog, consider taking a more holistic approach. Its that missing piece you’ve been searching for.<blockquote> Content DisclaimerThe information contained above is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this article is not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this article. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this article. Nina Fotara T/as Confident Canine disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this article. </blockquote>

How your energy, your mindset and your expectations affect your gundog training.

The Missing Peace

Explore expert insights, training tips, and holistic care practices for gundogs. Discover how to build a deeper connection with your dog using positive, reward-based methods and holistic principles.

Holistic Dog Blog | Insights, Training Tips & Holistic Care for Gundogs

Discover a collection of insightful articles on gundog training, holistic care, and mindful connection. Learn practical tips, explore holistic techniques, and transform your bond with your dog.

The Missing Peace

The Missing Peace

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