Spirited Mini Poodle with Abundant Potential

When I first brought Jackson into my life, he was a sweet, spirited mini poodle with abundant potential. Yet, like many dogs, he struggled with confidence and adapting to the complexities of the human world. While his playful nature and eagerness to please shone through, he needed more guidance to feel truly secure and understood.

It was during one of my many deep dives into dog behavior resources that I came across The Positively Pillars from Positively.com, created by the renowned dog behaviorist, Victoria Stilwell. These pillars emphasize positive reinforcement, building trust, and creating a secure, enriching environment for our canine companions. I was immediately captivated by this compassionate approach and decided to apply it in our daily routine.

One of the key elements I implemented was using positive reinforcement to boost Jackson’s confidence. Every time he tried something new—whether it was exploring a new trail, greeting another dog calmly, or just following a simple cue—he was rewarded with praise and treats. This practice turned training sessions into exciting adventures for him. I saw Jackson’s tail wag more often, his eyes light up with excitement, and most importantly, his demeanor became more relaxed. He no longer flinched at sudden noises or showed apprehension in unfamiliar situations. Instead, he began to approach life with an inquisitive and enthusiastic spirit.

Beyond training exercises, I incorporated the Positively Pillars’ emphasis on creating a bond based on trust and understanding. I learned to observe Jackson’s body language carefully, recognizing when he was feeling overwhelmed or needed a break. This awareness deepened our connection, as Jackson came to see me as his advocate and friend. The moments of training evolved into moments of genuine companionship, where we learned to communicate strongly and share mutual joy.

I was so impressed by the effectiveness of these lessons that I felt a calling to take my passion further. Inspired by the changes I saw in Jackson and fueled by the joy of seeing him thrive, I decided to sign up for the Victoria Stilwell Academy Dog Trainer Course. I wanted to learn how to help other dogs and their owners build the same connection and confidence that Jackson and I now shared. Through the academy, I’m deepening my understanding of positive, force-free training methods and preparing to guide others in fostering a safe, loving environment for their dogs.

The journey with Jackson, enriched by the Positively Pillars, has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It taught me that with patience, understanding, and positive reinforcement, we can bridge the gap between our world and the world of our beloved pets. And now, with my new path at the Victoria Stilwell Academy, I’m excited to soon share this knowledge and help other dogs live comfortably and confidently in our human world.