Marc Goldberg
ChicagoDogTrainer.com
This book is the result of a lifetime of learning, a process that continues to this day because dogs and people always have more to learn from one another. Dogs keep us humble. They remind us to enjoy the simple things, to get out of our own heads occasionally, to smell the air, see the squirrel. Even the earthy reality of picking up after them on a walk connects us to the biology of living things.
I had many good teachers as I learned about training and artful living with dogs. Some of them were people. A number of them were dogs. Some of the most important lessons I have ever learned about dogs came as a result of making mistakes. Some of them were minor and could be easily fixed with a bit of reflection and effort. Others were more complicated, and remedied only with great effort… or not at all. Even in those instances, I have profited in a way that lets me help more people and dogs.
To every dog I have helped: I’m thankful that you allowed me to increase your quality of life and to connect you better to the family who loves you.
To any dog I have failed: You are the few I remember and think about the most. You are the reason I never want to stop learning about your species. You motivate me to be the best trainer possible and, in fact, the best person I can be.
The friendship between man and dog is very old. Some cultures mummified their dogs and buried them with their masters. Others memorialized their dogs in paintings, tapestries, and sculpture. I keep a collection of little boxes containing the ashes of my departed pack. One day I wish to be among them. That is not a morbid thought for me. Far from it. It is a happy notion that I will go to the company of my dogs.
Friendship was the starting point of this book. Not just between dogs but also between people. The love of dogs must always connect us back to people. If you think you love dogs more than people, remember dogs’ high opinion of our species. Try and learn from them.
My friendship with Brother Christopher—and ultimately with all the Monks of New Skete—grew in an organic but most unexpected way. They became a second family to me. In Brother Christopher I found a kindred spirit, a sharp wit, a terrific dog man, an author, a formidable intellect, and—above all—a monk and a priest. I am deeply grateful for this friendship, which has changed my life.
Years ago I thought I might have a book in me. Brother Christopher was very encouraging and introduced me to his literary agent, Kate Hartson. Kate gave me the gift of her time, and eventually the monks and I decided to produce this volume together. Kate has been a relentless shepherd for this project. Like a border collie, she has nipped at the heels of its authors, helping us move forward and keeping us pointed in the right direction, at times through sheer force of will. She has done more for this book than we could have asked or expected.
There are always people an author wants to thank, but in this case there are also dogs. Thank-yous follow:
Brother Christopher and the Monks of New Skete, coauthors and friends
Kate Hartson, agent and shepherd
Patrick Farrell, training partner and friend, who listened to every idea about this book—twice
Wendy and Jack Volhard, who gave me great encouragement and friendship
Thanks also to Mary Mazzeri; Chad Mackin; Cheri Lucas; Heather Beck; Barney Goldberg, who gave me my love of dogs; Neshama Siner, who allowed me to grow up with a dog; Colleen Goldberg; Samantha Goldberg; Faye Goldberg; William Goldberg; Tawni McBee; Martin Deeley; Pat Trichter; and Juan Carlos Arias. Special thanks to the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) and to:
Gus, Sheltie
Honey, Golden mix
Bobbi, Greyhound
Franny, Greyhound
Diablo, Doberman
Lucky Laddie, Collie
Sheena, German shepherd dog
Tippy, Border collie mix
Scooter, Rat terrier
May we strive to be worthy of their love.
Brother Christopher
newskete.org
Inspiration is a mysterious thing. It is only at the end of a project such as this that one becomes conscious of just how many people played a part in helping this book come into being. Often they weren’t aware of their importance, but their openness, experience, and insight have helped me to articulate some of the ideas in this book.
I am extremely grateful to my brothers and sisters here at New Skete, whose collective wisdom is deeply imprinted within these pages. They have been a steady encouragement and support throughout the birthing of this book.
It is hard to overstate the gratitude I feel to our coauthor, Marc Goldberg. The friendship that has developed between us not only has renewed my enthusiasm for all things dog but has meant even more on a personal, heartfelt level. Marc possesses more than an uncommon understanding of, and gift with, dogs—his goodness and generosity bespeak his love for people as well. Marc, it has been such a privilege to share this journey with you.
Our agent, Kate Hartson, has combined loyalty and friendship with a discerning eye that has helped guide this book to reality. What a grace to have such a trusted friend as both counselor and shepherd of this project. Also, thanks to Carl Patka, who was very helpful at a particular point in this book.
A very sincere shout-out to the many esteemed friends I’ve come to know in the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP). Each year at the IACP conference I’ve been able to renew acquaintances, share insights and stories, and listen intently to the collective wisdom that arises from the many presentations and conversations. In particular I’d like to thank Martin Deeley, Pat Trichter, Bob Jervis, Heather Beck, Tyler Muto, Josh Moran, Mary Mazzeri, Chad Mackin, Cheri Lucas, Behesha Doan, and Tawni McBee.
Finally, to Ginger, Dunya, Deja-Vu, Natasha, Anka, Meiko, Delphi, Nino, Astro, Wisdom, Zoe, Daisy, and Raisa. You have taught me so much and helped me become a better monk and human being.