Lots of you have asked me to post photos of my dogs. Well, here’s the first. We’re all out for a casual walk a while back (the shorts and T-shirt should be a clue to the season.)

Notice not one of them is pulling on their leash? It’s simple to accomplish.

If you’ve got a dog who isn’t behaving the way you’d like it to behave - or maybe is completely out of control - start watching The Dog Whisperer on National Geographic channel.

Here’s a little hint, though - the dog is not the problem.

I’ve come in contact with and worked with thousands of dogs during the past 11 years of doing dog rescue work. In that time I’ve only met one dog I felt had significant neurological problems causing unacceptable behavior. In every other instance, the problem was at the other end of the leash.

A friend called me a while back. She said: “My dog has a problem.”

I said: “I know. I’m speaking to it.”

She quickly understood - and we worked together to solve the problem.

Her dog is one of the sweetest pups walking on the earth today.

Hmmm, what does this have to do with publicity, marketing, success or anything else we’re talking about on this blog?

Simple. So many people look for external reasons for their problems, failures and frustrations.

Wrong!

The first place to always look is within. I’m not saying that the problem will always be found within you, but it’s always the first place I look.

Am I causing the problem? Is it at all possible that I’m causing or contributing to the problem.

Often I find that I am at least partially responsible for the result I’m getting and am not happy with.

If you’re having a problem with your dog, look at the other end of the leash first.

If you’re having a problem with your publicity, look at the other end of the press release first.

If you’re having problems with your Internet business, look at the other end of the keyboard first.

OK, I’ve got to go. I have an 11:30 appointment with my chiropractor - one of the most enjoyable hours I spend every month. I’ve got a persistent problem with my hip. Nothing serious at all, just a little annoying from time to time.

The dogs must be causing it.

Hey wait a minute, I’m looking at the wrong end of the leash!