How Physical Therapy Reminds Me Of Behavior Work

How Physical Therapy Reminds Me of Dog Behavior Work
If you’ve ever attended one of my classes, seminars, or private behavior consultations, you’ve probably heard me compare human and dog behavior. I often relate a puppy learning basic cues to a child learning their ABCs, or liken dog-dog conflict in the home to the way we sometimes experience tension with family, friends, or coworkers. These comparisons help people better understand their dog’s perspective.

But a few years ago as I recovered from a car accident and went through physical therapy, I realized: physical therapy and behavior work with dogs are remarkably similar.

“My Goal Is That You Don’t Need Me”
When I first met my incredible physical therapist (also a MAT specialist), her words were instantly familiar. She said, “My goal is for you not to need to see me anymore.” She laughed, noting that it’s a strange business model—but I didn’t think so at all. It’s exactly what I tell my own clients! Right then, I knew we’d be a good match.

Finding the Right Professional
One of the first parallels I noticed was the importance of finding the right professional. In dog training, the industry is unregulated—meaning anyone can call themselves a trainer or behaviorist. Unfortunately, many use outdated or aversive methods that may suppress behavior temporarily but ultimately make things worse and have little or no training or certifications.

Just like I took time to ask questions, read reviews, and make sure my physical therapist was the right fit, I encourage dog guardians to do the same when choosing someone to help with their dog’s behavior.

Commitment, Compliance, and Consistency
My healing journey wasn’t fast. It required months of consistent effort, and I had to trust the process even when I didn’t see immediate results. I followed every exercise exactly as prescribed—reviewing visuals, asking questions, and sticking to the schedule. I didn’t skip a day, and I didn’t wait for a setback to return for a follow-up.

This is exactly how behavior modification works with dogs. One session may help, but deep-rooted behavior challenges—especially those involving fear, reactivity, or trauma—take time, consistency, and follow-through at home.

Realistic Expectations Are Key
I didn’t walk into PT expecting to be pain-free in one visit. In fact, I went for nearly eight months. There have been highs and lows—sometimes I made progress, other times I felt like I took two steps back. But I kept going. I also didn’t put the expectations for change on the therapist. I put the expectations on me. So often we expect the dog to change but if we want to change our dog’s behavior, we must change our behavior.

Similarly, I don’t promise overnight results for dog behavior clients, and I caution against anyone who does. Change—whether physical or behavioral—doesn’t happen instantly. But with dedication, it does happen.

Behavior Change Isn’t Easy—for Humans or Dogs
Let’s be honest: how many people set New Year’s resolutions to go to the gym or give up chocolate, only to fall off track by February? That’s because behavior change—no matter the species—requires structure, patience, and long-term commitment.

In my case, I invested in tools like resistance bands, committed to rest days, and gave up activities I enjoyed for a bit (like paddleboarding) to prioritize healing. I kept my exercise instructions in sight as a daily reminder. I trained myself to stick with the plan. I followed my professional’s advice.
Dog guardians have to do the same: managing the environment, committing to training, and supporting their dog through setbacks as well as successes.

It Takes a Team—and Trust
Healing requires trust in your professional, open communication, and a partnership mindset. I trusted my therapist’s expertise and communicated when I needed adjustments. That relationship helped me keep going—and it’s the same relationship I aim to build with my clients.

Many of the dogs I’ve worked with have come a long way—from trauma, fear, or anxiety—because their guardians were committed to the process. They understood that behavior work is more like a marathon than a sprint. It takes time, but the results are so worth it and our dogs will thank us for it.

In the End…
Behavior work—whether for humans or dogs—is a journey. It requires the right support, the right plan, and consistent follow-through. There are no quick fixes, but with patience, compassion, and partnership, transformation is possible.

So, the next time you’re working on a behavior change—yours or your dog’s—remember: it’s not about how fast you go. It’s about staying the course and celebrating the wins along the way.

Reach out to schedule a session for us to work together to reach your goals with your dog.