So disheartened with my handling ability

[BlackPuppy]

Classes are boring anyway. Why they are an hour long beats me. I train 10 or 15 minutes, once a day if I'm competing, twice a week if I'm not.

Both my dogs love to play fetch or tug. So, I go out when they ask me to play and combine my obedience lesson with the playtime.

(BTW, frustration is so counterproductive. Been there. Then I decided next time I get frustrated it's time to play and forget about training. )

[Prize]

I would trade you my dog's personality and drive for Ozzy's any day. Mine is so intent on getting things done that when she doesn't have a goal she's an energetic nutcase. I've learned to roll with it though, I realized it is easier to change my ways to fit her rather than to try and change her.

[big_dog7777]

Originally Posted By: Lola1969 I may have to accept the fact though that Ozzy may just be content with being the most wonderful dog in the world and a fabulous companion

Above is the best attitude. If he loses focus in a ring with sheep, it's genetic and not handling. You could run yourself ragged and go crazy trying to be more interesting to him, but at the end of the day all it will lead to is frustration. That does not make him a bad dog or bad companion, that stuff is just not for him.

Considering all of the activities you have tried with him, I would strongly recommend that you enjoy him as a pet and go get yourself a female working line GSD. Do your higher level training with her, and do basic stuff to keep him exercised and happy while enjoying both of them. You cannot build what's not genetically there.

[Lola1969]

OMG, Jean, that is Ozzy to a "T!" He doesn't like all of the happy excited release commands from others in class and HATES to be followed by other dogs if we are in a heeling circle. That said, when we do off leash heeling one by one, he is the best in class. It helps to have a breed who has no desire to leave your side!

[Jacobysma]

I used to be very frustrated with Jacoby's training also to the point where I didn't want to go anymore. I had someone suggest a different trainer and OMG the difference!!!! Jacoby started listening we have the whole family there during our class and the trainer actually will take Jacoby's leash to demonstrate how we should be working and to should him that not everyone will hurt him (he has confidence issues). I have now had strangers pet him (something I would never had done 2 weeks ago). His behavior has changed and I LOOK FORWARD to going to class. Ask around you might find the right fit is closer than you think! Good hunting!!!

[Castlemaid]

Jacobysmom, you make a really good point! Training SHOULD be fun for dog AND handler! If it isn't, then the training methods need to change.

And it could be any of the above: classes need to be shorter, one-on-one instruction, more play, different setting, etc . . .

[Jason L]

Originally Posted By: CastlemaidJacobysmom, you make a really good point! Training SHOULD be fun for dog AND handler! If it isn't, then the training methods need to change.

And it could be any of the above: classes need to be shorter, one-on-one instruction, more play, different setting, etc . . .

The problem is sometimes low drive dogs just don't want to "play"; they rather sniff, hang out, socialize, etc. I believe that's what the OP is talking about with Ozzy lacking intensity and focus in training and not "releasing" like the other dogs in class.

I agree with shorter sessions though. With dogs like that, you can never over-estimate their level of engagement and enthusiasm. Always quit while you are ahead!

[Zisso]

Definitely be proud of getting your CGC...I am scared to try with my two cause they are not trained enough and in my mind that amkes them unpredictable.

[Lola1969]

Thanks so much for your input y'all! I really appreciate it.

Ozzy and I have trained all over town with numerous trainers in different classes. They have all been great, so I'm not sure how much more shopping around I can do. Am thinking of enrolling in a class across town which starts in mid-August with a male trainer. We've never had that before. So, who knows....

And yes, Ozzy is a pretty much, let's hang out kind of dog. He'll play a little bit with me and then he just sort of settles down and is content to be with his pack (DH and me).

I do like the idea of him not having access to food for a few hours before class. He has never been particularly food motivated or toy motivated. I know he enjoys the treats, but he might focus a little more on me if he is actually HUNGRY!

He is so attached to me that no one has ever used him as a demo dog or handled him, so I'm not sure how he would behave with a professional trainer handling him. Of course I assume he would do much better, but who knows?

I will always have to keep him in classes though for the socialization part. If we take a break from weekend outings and regular training, he gets a lot more anxious and insular. It's hard not to compare ourselves though to the border collies in class. Ozzy's just a big goof