A World of Social Media–Dog Training and Fitness

As social media evolves, we see numerous reels from TikTok, Instagram, you-name-it platform that fictionalizes the world of dog training and people who workout. While some of what you see in short-form content may be true and applicable most isn’t. Here’s why: 

Dog Training: I used to and still watch numerous reels a day, colloquially called doom-scrolling, on how to make my puppy a better version of himself. I saw a 15 to 30 second reel and immediately thought, ‘this must be it!’. So I would try new techniques everyday and, alas, nothing would work or latch on correctly. I changed my approach, I focused on what I knew would give results, from heeling to recall, and used time, energy, and repetition to iron techniques out, and magically that worked. An answer is rarely given in a 15 to 30 second video and we should know better!

Fitness: I’ll admit that I’m a fitness junkie and love to workout. Much of my love for fitness started when I looked and admired images and videos of bodybuilders. Now it’s turned to short-form content that lights up my screen and pumps adrenaline in me. It seems like everyone on social media has six-pack abs and eats healthy 24/7. But what isn’t shown is how consistency, diligence, and time play a role in this process. A six-pack isn’t made in 30 seconds, much less months. Everyone starts at a different place in their journey. I admit, I still love indulging in these videos but with a refined mindset. 

Goals: Setting realistic short and long term goals is comparable in dog training and fitness. Dog trainers have hours and hours set into training their dogs. Bodybuilders have weeks and months to sculpt their bodies. Dogs are not humans, nor should we treat them as such. Dogs will only learn through clear and concise direction and communication. We have to practice what we preach and put in the time and effort to mold their behaviors to what we want. I’m not saying don’t watch the glamorous videos, just caution yourself and set realistic goals! 

At K9Shah, we pride ourselves with working with owners and dogs that set realistic goals. Time, patience, and work ethic is the name of the game, and we help you arrive there.