Boundaries. Are They Mean?

You can be kind and loving and still say No. 

You can be assertive without being aggressive. 

And you can set boundaries with calm confidence rather than heated emotion.

By and large, the one thing that is always standing in the way of having a well behaved, respectful, stable dog is our own personal feelings. But let’s clear some things up about saying NO…

Healthy boundaries are not a form of rejection. 

Boundaries are not about conflict or confrontation.

And disagreeing does not make you mean, hostile, controlling, nor cruel.

When a dog’s choices aren’t in their best interest, or YOURS, it’s reasonable to step in & actually disagree, and form a healthy boundary.

The energy behind your boundary defines its intent. If anger becomes a tool for motivation, you may get short term results, but the long term damage to relationship will take an even bigger toll. And none of us want a scared, shut down dog.

Recognizing your emotions, understanding where they come from, and choosing how to express them in ways that serve you and your dog’s highest good is always the goal. A clear, calm mind is far more effective at problem solving & creating positive change — and there’s nothing to feel bad about when this is the case.

Healthy Boundaries are about Self.

Boundaries are a powerful declaration of self-respect. They are a way of communicating to the world (and to yourself), that you, and your dog’s well-being and authenticity matter. Boundaries make you an even deeper, more compassionate caretaker. 

When you begin to say NO to the things that do not serve you or your dog, you simultaneously say yes to both of your truths.

Life is always conspiring to help us come into a greater personal awareness. Our dogs, no matter how challenging, are a beautiful invitation from the Universe to grow & learn, and to step into full authenticity. 

Boundaries and limits on behavior do not make you mean. They are the distance at which you love yourself AND your dog, simultaneously.