Lead First, Love Second

Summer Brings Joy—And Risks We Overlook

I’ll be honest with you.

While you’re reading this, there’s a fair chance I’m flat out on a sun lounger somewhere, possibly sipping something cold and questionably fruity. It was Kitty’s blog that reminded me: yes, even we calm leaders need a moment off duty!

So I scheduled this one in advance—because even in midsummer, even when schools are closing and cocktails are calling, the dogs still need us to show up and lead well.

And right now? That leadership matters more than ever.

With kids out of school, routines flipped upside down, barbecues fired up and garden gates swinging open… things can get busy, loud, and just a little unpredictable. For us—and especially for our dogs.

This post is about how to keep that steady, safe, and secure for everyone.

Leadership Isn’t Loud—It’s Grounded

Let’s get something out of the way: your dog doesn’t need fixing.

Even if they bark when visitors arrive. Even if they’re nervy around new people. Even if they’re a bit overwhelmed by summer chaos.

They don’t need more gadgets. They need you to hold steady.

Good leadership isn’t showy. It’s not about dominance or dazzling obedience. It’s about being the adult in the room—especially when the room’s full of kids on scooters, music from the garden, and someone forgot to shut the side gate again.

Dogs don’t need perfection. They need someone they trust to keep the world feeling safe.

Summer Brings Joy—And Risks We Overlook

You might love the idea of visitors and kids running around. But your dog? They didn’t vote on the summer schedule.

And for rescue dogs—especially those still learning how to be safe in a home—it can all be a bit much.

So here are a few things that can make a big difference this month:

• Garden gates and back doors: Check them like clockwork. Kids forget. Adults assume.

• Visitors: Give your dog a “no-go” zone where they can retreat without being followed or fussed over.

• Playdates: If you’ve got little ones visiting, remind them: no grabbing, chasing, or surprise cuddles.

• Noise: Fireworks, loud music, party tents—be aware of what your dog’s hearing and feeling.

You’re not being overcautious by keeping things calm. You’re being the leader they need.

Leadership Is in the Little Things

So what does leading through summer really look like?

• It’s pausing before reacting when your dog barks.

• It’s guiding kids to interact gently, or not at all.

• It’s staying calm when chaos kicks off—and showing your dog you’ve got it covered.

• It’s choosing rest instead of adventure on hot days, even when the world says “go out.”

Because dogs don’t thrive on novelty. They thrive on security. On knowing where the edges are. On being able to look to you and know: “I don’t have to figure this out alone.”

Love Is Easy. Leadership Is Everything.

We all adore our dogs. That part comes naturally.

But love without leadership can leave them uncertain.

Leadership doesn’t shout. It doesn’t hustle. It doesn’t overcompensate.

It grounds.

It steadies.

And when your dog knows you’ve got the wheel, they don’t have to cling, lunge, bark, or panic. They can breathe. They can rest. They can simply be a dog.

Even during summer holidays. Even when kids are everywhere. Even when you’re quietly dreaming of your own escape to the sun (with or without Kitty’s cocktail in hand).

Final Thought

This summer, you don’t need to have all the answers.

You just need to keep showing up—calmly, clearly, and kindly.

Check the gates. Set the tone. Protect the space. And know that when you lead well, your dog doesn’t have to lead at all.

That’s when the real trust begins.

Thanks for reading,

Russ 🐾

Scout’s honour. Paw on heart.