To guide me in my physical training of my dogs, I look to great trainers in the dog world. But for my mental preparation, I often look to other sources. One is the horse world, where the mental preparation and attitude of the rider has been a topic of discussion for decades, if not centuries. The art of equitation goes back 2000 years to Xenophon, and modern theories of classical riding have a 400 year history. So why not look to the masters?
One favorite inspirational text I read when I need my priorities refocused is by Erik Herbermann, an internationally respected horseman. His book Dressage Formula is considered a classic.
While much of it is technical instruction, the first chapters outline the importance of the rider’s mental preparation. Whenever I read them, I am struck by their wisdom, and how easily they relate to the dog/human training relationship. Below is an excerpt from his first chapter. All I’ve done is substituted “dog” for “horse” and “training” for “riding”:
Training is about:
- respect for, and love of, the dog
- trust-loyalty-friendship
- incorruptible commitment to the dog’s well-being
- coming to an understanding of the nature of the dog
- enhancing the dog’s beauty through gymnastic work
- enjoying a harmonious relationship
- an avenue to self-awareness; self-improvement
Our tasks are:
- to be the leader of the partnership
- to know that the “buck stops here” (note: exclusively with the trainer. ‘Management’ is always solely responsible for finding viable solutions to all problems.)
- to have clarity of purpose
- to work within the dog’s and our own capabilities
- to utilize praise and correction; punishing extremely rarely
- to be thoughtful, patient, kind in all interaction with the dog.
Need I say more?
The Spaniel Annals 
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