The True Power of a Powerful Dog

I love big, solid dogs. That’s not to say I don’t love all dogs, because how could you not, really, they’re all so cute and unique in their own way. But it’s the big ones that catch my attention. I like a square nose, broad chest, a big happy smile, and a deep bark. My love of big dogs doesn’t come from feeling a sense of greatness because I have one. I just love a dog I can wrap my arms around and give forced hugs to. A dog I can play with and body check. There’s a lot more of them to love.... and clean up after. The point of today’s post is power. Although Chili has made me powerful, I didn’t get that power because of what she is, I got that power because of who she is and what she’s taught me.

Getting any dog is a big decision, that’s a life you’re taking responsibility for. People mistake the power of a dog for breed, size and strength. That’s just physical, although it can carry a certain amount of intimidation with it. Their true power comes from who they are on the inside. Some say that if you’re lucky, you’ll get a really easy, laid back dog. OK, I agree. I also believe if you’re lucky, at least once in your life, you’ll get a handful that will push you to your limits and teach you a few things about yourself. The catch, you have to be open to it.

To benefit from having a large, powerful dog, you must first abandon any idea that just by having this dog you are somehow powerful. That in itself is a lie. The least impressive thing is a dog owner standing tall and proud behind their pulling, out of control dog because they feel a sense of power from the tension, or from how uneasy it makes others feel. I feel for these dogs, not being allowed a sense of peace. Vulnerable to the inevitable consequences their owner has created for them.

For me, the power of inner strength, compassion, patience and endurance is what Chili taught me. Not just for dogs, it’s spilled over to other parts of my life and I’m better for it. Who’d have thought that a dog would break me down and build me up again? I didn’t. I thought I was already strong and powerful. What did I know? I did have people along the way who helped me see what a great thing was going to come from the chaos of me and Chili. What a concept, asking for help. Another lesson learned. I didn’t have to do it alone. There are actually people out there who want to help, out of the goodness of their heart. Wow.

I laugh more now and don’t take myself as seriously. Sometimes training a dog can make you look and feel like a bit of an idiot. You really do have to get over yourself. I was boring to Chili until I finally let myself just have fun. After all, that’s what Chili loves, fun. She didn’t think I looked like an idiot. The hardest lesson of them all for me was relaxing. Slowing down my mind and just naturally managing whatever situation Chili gave me. It felt so unnatural but in the end, it’s less stressful for both of us, and more effective.

So, that’s the power that I’ve gotten from my big, strong, powerful Boxweiler. I think it’s reasonable to say it’s a good power. In my mind though, I don’t have a power breed, I have a dog, and her name is Chili.