The bond between dogs and humans is a timeless connection that goes beyond mere companionship. Moreover, the self-reflective relationship between dogs and humans is not a new revelation. In my journey with my recent dogs – Cooper, Mojo, and Grommet, I have discovered profound reflections of myself, my life stages, and areas for personal growth.
Have you ever seen the original 101 Dalmatians Disney movie? The opening scene shows owners and their dogs with the same physical traits. Many other cartoonists have portrayed these physical and behavioural quirks throughout the years.
In my observations with my dogs, I have noticed many similarities between them and myself, as well as parallels between my life stages and areas for growth. When I look at my relationship with Cooper, it’s profoundly enlightening to see the journey we shared and the growth we encouraged for each other.
Reflections in Cooper.
Cooper entered my life during a challenging period of self-isolation, my “hermit” stage. I was struggling quite a bit with my self-worth. My usual coping skill over the years has been overworking. In my first business, I worked seven days a week & extended hours, walking dogs Monday through Friday and providing Pet Sitting and Dog Training Services during the week and on weekends.
At 4.5 years young, when I first brought Cooper home, he knew how to use aggressive behaviour to create space from other humans. And, in the beginning, our need to isolate fed each other. I was a novice in dog training, navigating the complexities of handling a dog that was reactive to humans. Through our challenges and setbacks, I realised the importance of seeking help and support from mentors to overcome obstacles, not just for Cooper’s well-being but also for my personal growth. Thus, he became a pivotal figure in my journey towards self-discovery.
I have always needed to be fiercely independent, so admitting I needed another and many others was hard work. Still, I needed to do that for Cooper. The full-on submersion into dog training, workshops, seminars, mentors, and rehabilitation began. It wasn’t perfect in the end. But our worlds, friendships created and lives together expanded beyond what I thought possible. (You can find further details about Cooper’s story in Parts 1-4 of his blog posts.)
Personality Parallels with My Mojo.
Then came Mojo, my precious pup and a spirited working-line Kelpie. We have had a challenging relationship at times, especially during his puppyhood and adolescence. Our journey has tested me in ways that I never imagined possible.
In late 2022, I decided to get tested for ADHD, as there were too many markers – lack of energy, hyper-fixation-focus-activity, inability to focus, dopamine chasing activities, etc. I received the official diagnosis in March 2023, which was a relief and explained so much in my life up to this point and beyond.
I often joke that Mojo is my ADHD dog. He mirrors my impulsive nature, hyperactivity, and limit-pushing. I have seen my frustration reflected in his eyes, and the number of times I’ve needed to pivot in our training has been a valuable learning experience. He is teaching me patience and focus, which is deepening our bond and mutual understanding.
The Quirks and Traits with Grommet.
Grommet came into our lives as a foster around eight months young. I was adamant that he was a foster project dog and that I would move on to find the perfect family, but it soon became apparent that he was staying!
There was minimal evidence of prior training and socialisation exposure to the outside world, and he had many undesirable behaviours when he came through our door. But his desire to learn and face each challenge as it comes up is inspiring. He reminds me a lot of Cooper in many ways.
He is eager to please and be loved, although he can be nervous around new people, unfamiliar dogs, and feels extremely insecure around little people. He loves to play and have fun, which is typical of a young pup. So far, he seems to mirror the side of me that wants to be loved and accepted, though he is still nervous about putting himself out into the world, which we will work on together.
Embracing the Enriching Depths of Canine Connection.
Each has challenged me in different ways, shown me immense love, brought a lot of laughter, and helped me grow far beyond my wildest imagination. These creatures that inhabit our lives are so beautiful, unique and amazing. I love animals beyond words, which is why it is only reasonable that we give back to them as much as they give to us. They are so much more than phenomenal companions.
And if you, too, are open and willing to look, you and your dogs can transcend the standard dog-human relationship and foster a connection that strengthens your bond. We can all grow together in a way that unlocks our full potential and expands our worlds.
For dog obedience training and behaviour modification services in Geelong, the Bellarine,
Surf Coast and Golden Plains regions, contact King’s K9 Dog Training.