FEATURE
The Non-Compliant Client
How to mitigate training that has become resistant rather than rewarding
By Melissa McMath Hatfield , M . S ., CBCC-KA , CDBC
Do you have clients who are causing you frustration ? Do you wonder why did they hire your services only to disregard or not follow through with your advice , or fail to incorporate your training protocol into their dogs ’ daily routine ? If there has been little to no improvement in the dogs ’ behavior , why continue this uphill battle ? Is anyone really enjoying this process ?
If what is supposed to be positive and rewarding has turned into a slog for everyone concerned , especially the dogs , it ’ s time to reevaluate . Why does this happen and how to mitigate the situation ? First , let us analyze the different types of clients . I am sure you have experienced some of the following :
• The “ know it all .”
• The “ Yes , but ”…
• The client in “ denial ” that there are serious issues that need addressing .
• The “ every excuse in the world ” client .
• The “ my other trainer did ”…
• The “ guy on TV ” says …
• My “ husband does not agree ”…
• The “ just one more question ;” never accepting your first explanation .
• The client who filters every piece of advice to “ fit ” what they want to hear or were told before .
• The client who “ rationalizes ” behavior due to the dog ’ s past abuse .
• The “ enabler ” who is unaware that they are maintaining the problem behavior .
The list goes on . Which one is giving you the most trouble ?
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