Dog Days and His WaysSample

Watch Me

One of my favorite commands I learned to teach both of our dogs while in obedience class was the use of two words: “watch me.” Our instructor for Pearl was a friend of mine in my therapy dog group named Mary and she’s an amazing teacher. She shared how important it is to maintain eye contact and for your dog to learn, on cue, to put their eyes on you.

“When your dog is looking at you, you know they are paying attention,” Mary shared. It’s an important command as many times you need your dog to take their gaze off of something else and re-direct their attention back to you. Teaching “watch me” is useful as you can use that command before offering any of the other commands shared in this plan. Saying “watch me” to your dog is helpful when navigating a crowd together, when other dogs nearby are misbehaving and, especially, when you need their immediate attention.

When you say “watch me” your dog will look to you for secondary cues. They will trust you with the “what’s next” and anticipate that you will share more information with them. Fitz is so good at obeying this command. His big, brown soulful eyes can hold my gaze for what seems like minutes and his desire to please (and receive some treats) is inspiring.

Jesus constantly encouraged His disciples to watch Him. Our Father encourages us to keep our eyes on Him and to watch for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I know my days are much better when my focus is on the Father.

When my attention is turned to meaningless things like what others think of me and what others are doing, my heart and soul can meander. I can be a bit like Pearl who loves chasing rabbits. If I spot one before her, sometimes I say, “Hey Pearl, watch me.” Her eyes are averted, and I save my arm from a big tug on the leash.

When I watch and read things that are not the best for me - some books, TV shows, movies and the negativity that clouds social media, my gaze shifts. Soon, like Pearl dashing after rabbits, I can spiral off the path that’s best for me. It’s only when my eyes are on Him that I am my best self.

Father, help me to keep my eyes on You. Help me to see the way You do and walk in Your ways.