Helping my Reactive dog - The Surprise Party Game

[paulag1955]

Originally Posted by Runswithdogs

I should have said, we say "look at that" instead of "surprise!" We are using this with the cats as well, because we don't want her to get to the point of needing to say "leave it".
I highly, highly, HIGHLY recommend the book "Control Unleashed"- we are still working on the exercises, but i have been really impressed so far.

Sadly, this doesn't seem to be available as an ebook, which is my strategy to keep my husband from knowing exactly how much $$$ I spend on books.

[Greydusk]

Originally Posted by paulag1955

I've been working on this with Shasta for a couple of weeks without much success so far. (1) I haven't found a point where she's aware of another dog and won't react OR (2) I haven't yet found a treat that's interesting enough AND (3) I don't have a handy friend with a non-reactive dog for practice sessions.

Any suggestions on how to proceed?

I should say, Shasta is just a baby so she's not being aggressive, she's just excited to see another dog, but she sounds so fierce that strangers don't want her near the dogs. Poor Shasta.

Have you tried cooked chicken or hotdogs? Mine usually goes crazy for hotdogs. I also don't have a non-reactive dog friend, until I find these elusive non-reactive dogs, I take Blitz to the dog park. I don't go inside, we just train in the parking lot at a distance that he is comfortable with, and slowly move forward. He can see/hear/smell the other dogs but they are at distance that is within his threshold.

This has worked well for Blitz, may not for other dogs. (I want to clarify that I don't ever intend on taking him inside the dog park).

[Caledon]

The last time you posted this video I passed it on to my friend and she has been giving it a try.

[JudynRich]

I tried it and it did work! (but not so well at the vets!). I use chicken hot dogs, and ONLY when another dog is near.

[paulag1955]

Originally Posted by Greydusk

Have you tried cooked chicken or hotdogs? Mine usually goes crazy for hotdogs. I also don't have a non-reactive dog friend, until I find these elusive non-reactive dogs, I take Blitz to the dog park. I don't go inside, we just train in the parking lot at a distance that he is comfortable with, and slowly move forward. He can see/hear/smell the other dogs but they are at distance that is within his threshold.

This has worked well for Blitz, may not for other dogs. (I want to clarify that I don't ever intend on taking him inside the dog park).

The dog park is a good idea. Kind of a big investment in time, but probably worth the trip over there. I haven't tried cooked chicken. I have tried hot dogs. Too many give Shasta an upset tummy (plus I can't stand how greasy they make my hands) but the chicken will probably work great. Thanks!