Canine Coaching 4U

It was classic. I was watching somebody letting their happy 6 month old golden greet an adult golden. The young dog was at the end of a very tight leash pulling to greet another dog. The adult was sitting, held by a young person behind the dog. It was turning it's head, a couple of lip licks and looking hard at the puppy. Gosh, it couldn't be any clearer, could it? ... They stayed like this until the adult finally snapped to tell the youngest to back off and show some respect. No contact. But of course everybody is horrified and the puppy is comforted and moved away quickly. Just a leash greeting that is done all wrong and continued until it fails. I admire those dogs that are fine in spite of their handlers. However this one didn't go smoothly

LOVED this podcast. It isn't all about aggression, but about how we try to fit them into our lives and how breed matters. Some breed traits are discussed - ie border collies and their need for control. Living with and fostering many breeds shows me their various instincts - not always desirable in a pet - albeit always impressive. Quick moving and well done!

Sorry for the delay everyone! Technical difficulties (a.k.a. terrible internet service) made uploading very slow

Sunny Sunday brought out the parade of people, bikes, roller blades, children, dogs etc at our local park. Including Bodie and I. We practiced follow the finger as I lured him to walk on the right side YES and treat. Then the left side, YES and treat and repeat. As he gets it, I just use the finger to point as a cue and may reward with a treat and/or praise Comes in handy to avoid the dog getting crowded by the parade and keep focus. By practicing frequently when we don't need to - he can switch sides quickly and smoothly when needed. It has become a useful exercise I do with dogs - many who may be reactive or simply distracted.

Teaching place, or mat comes in handy. It provides a clear spot for your dog to stay on and is useful in various situations. Like all training, it starts with no distractions and for a period of time/distance that can be successful. We have practiced inside many times, and today it came in handy to hang out with mom who is shoveling the driveway. Lots of rewards and breaks made it an enjoyable training session. ... It is a busy street so to ensure safety, a long line was used to secure the dog.