Over the weekend our family welcomed in another puppy. After several tense meetings between Mickey (the new pup, loving named after Mickey Mouse) and Deogi (our other 60+ lb fur baby) they established a working relationship.

We watched as Deogi would emit several whimpers, whines, growls or doggy noises that we had never heard before and Mickey would respond in his own way. Deogi clearly showed him what his boundaries should be, watched over the way Mickey ate, guided him at playtime and made it plain what his expectations of the young pup should be.

I have my own rules and expectations of how a dog should be within our house and although in time they understand and follow the rules; I am unequipped at speaking their language. The few times I have tried to imitate; the dogs look at me as though I have lost my mind (simply confirming what has happened long ago) and continue in the negative behavior I am trying to correct.

In our lives as humans, we have goals of things that we want to accomplish. It’s typically a skill that we were born with that needs time and instruction on how to hone it to perfection. Surrounding us are people at all levels and different skills that may help educate or encourage us along our endeavor. These people also at times may correct us or move us along a different path if we seem to be struggling. Although our family or peers may have the best intentions, we have to determine whether they are truly speaking our language.

Deogi is Mickey’s mentor in the pup’s endeavor in canine growth. The older dog is equipped to teach the puppy in correct behavior. Through subtle noises or even body posture, the dogs communicate on the same level. Even during play, Deogi will put Mickey back in line when the game turns too rough. Because of the effectiveness of the teacher; the puppy follows the big dog around looking for guidance. Although I can train Mickey on acceptable behavior within our house; I don’t speak his language.

When you are looking for a true mentor to help you in your mission, be sure you find someone who has a natural passion in your field. Make sure they speak your language. Odds are that the mentor will be thrilled to find someone who is like-minded and beginning the journey they have already traveled. A mentor will gladly take a young pup under their paw and through steady guidance will provide the rules in a language that is understood for that specific purpose.

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