Find your joy………..
Find Your Joy
I’ve recently started a painting course called “Find Your Joy.” 🎨
I signed up because I love painting and drawing, but I often find myself held back by the feeling that what I create has to be perfect. That people should look at it and say, “Wow, that’s amazing!”
But here’s the thing — that’s neither realistic nor the reason I want to paint.
I love filling sketchbooks, playing with paint, splashing colour around, and experimenting with mark-making. And yes, I’ll be honest… some of what I create is truly awful 😅. But does that take away the fun I have while doing it? Not at all.
What gets in the way is that little voice of judgement — the fear of what others might think.
And that’s exactly the same thing I see in so many people who come to me for dog training.
Finding the Joy in Your Dog
When people bring me their dogs — often dogs with big feelings, anxious behaviours, or just a little “quirky” — I always remind them of one thing: find the joy.
Remember why you chose to share your life with a dog.
Was it the dream of long countryside walks? The companionship on cosy evenings? Watching them explore, ears pricked, tails wagging?
It’s so easy to get caught up in what we think we “should” be doing. Agility classes. Perfect recall. Pub trips. Hiking every weekend. But if those things don’t bring you joy — or your dog hates them — why force it?
Honestly, if the thought of running around an agility course fills you with horror… don’t do it.
My Joy With My Dogs
For me, the biggest joy of living with dogs is simply having them around. 🐾
I love wandering through nature with them, watching the seasons change — the ducks on the water, the geese flying overhead, even the heron I see most mornings. The peace of the countryside, the trees, the sky, and the sheer beauty of watching my dogs just be dogs: sniffing, exploring, pootling about, tails gently wagging. That fills me with happiness.
Over the years, I’ve dabbled in all sorts of activities with my dogs: trick training, hoopers, agility, obedience, and most recently, scentwork (my new obsession!). I’ve loved every bit of it — not because we were chasing titles or perfection, but because my dogs genuinely enjoy training with me.
They see me pick up a clicker and their little faces light up — “Ooooh, fun! What are we doing today?” That joy, that shared connection, is the reason I do it.
And if they’re not in the mood? That’s fine too. Sometimes they wander off, and I let them. Training should feel like play, not pressure — for both of us.
The Dog You Dreamed Of vs. The Dog You Have
Often, people come to me frustrated because their dog isn’t the one they imagined.
They pictured lazy afternoons at the pub… but their dog finds it overwhelming.
They imagined hiking adventures… but their dog doesn’t like long walks.
They wanted a running buddy… but their dog definitely didn’t get that memo! 🐕🦺
Here’s the thing: you have the dog you have. And, more often than not, you end up with the dog you need.
Dogs are individuals. They have their own personalities, quirks, and preferences. It’s okay if they don’t want to go to the pub. Leave them at home — they’ll be happier and so will you.
Instead, find the things they enjoy. Celebrate the traits you love about them. Build a life together based on mutual joy, not expectation.
Find It. Celebrate It.
Living with dogs is a privilege. They bring us laughter, companionship, and a connection to the simple pleasures in life.
So next time you’re feeling frustrated or overwhelmed, take a breath. Ask yourself:
Why did I get a dog?
What do I love most about them?
What brings us joy, together?
Write it down. Reflect on it. And let go of what you think you “should” be doing.
Because when you find your joy — in painting, in training, in life with your dog — that’s where the real
magic happens. ✨
Want Some Help Finding the Joy With Your Dog?
If you’re struggling with a dog who has big feelings, tricky behaviour, or simply doesn’t fit the mould you imagined, you’re not alone.
At Bark-ology, we offer 1-1 bespoke training packages designed to help you and your dog build connection, confidence, and calm — so you can find the joy together.
📌 Free 15-minute consultation → https://calendly.com/info-bark-ology/15min?month=2025-09
