What is "Relationship-Based Dog Training?"

In his book The Speed of Trust, Stephen Covey explores the profound impact that trust has on all forms of relationships. He emphasizes that trust isn’t something that appears overnight—it requires time, patience, and, above all, consistency. While building trust may feel like a slow process, Covey argues that the effort is well worth it. Once trust is established, it acts like a key that unlocks smoother, more effective communication.

Covey famously wrote, “Trust is the Glue of Life. It is the most essential ingredient in effective communication. It is the Foundational Principle that holds all relationships.” Whether we’re talking about human connections or even the bond between a person and their pet, trust serves as the bedrock upon which everything else is built. Without it, misunderstandings fester, and progress stalls. With it, relationships flourish.

Trust as the First Building Block

When we think about relationships—be it with friends, family, or even our dogs—the starting point is always trust. For example, consider the relationship between you and your dog. For it to thrive, there must be a mutual understanding. Your dog needs to recognize you as the leader, but more than that, they need to feel that your leadership is benevolent and reliable.

This dynamic isn’t just about authority; it’s about creating a sense of safety and predictability. A dog that trusts its owner can relax, listen, and respond more effectively. Without this foundation, communication breaks down, and behaviors like anxiety or reactivity can take root.

Overcoming Anxiety Through Trust

Here at Breakthrough, we work with many dogs who arrive anxious, reactive, or uncertain. The first thing we notice in these cases is a lack of trust. These dogs don’t feel secure in their surroundings, and they certainly don’t trust me as a new figure in their lives. In fact, they often perceive me as a threat at first.

Our initial goal isn’t to jump straight into training commands or correcting behaviors. Instead, we focus on building trust. The dog must learn that I’m not here to harm them—that I’m a source of good things like safety, comfort, and guidance. This shift in perception doesn’t happen instantly, but with patience and consistent positive interactions, it becomes possible.

The Breakthrough Moment

Once a dog begins to see you as a trustworthy leader, something remarkable happens: communication becomes clearer. When trust is present, your dog is more likely to listen, follow your cues, and engage with you in a meaningful way. This is the moment where real breakthroughs in training occur.

Covey’s insights about trust extend beyond human relationships—they apply just as powerfully to the way we connect with our pets. By proving ourselves as dependable leaders, we pave the way for mutual understanding and a stronger bond. The result? A happier, more responsive dog and a more fulfilling relationship for both of you.