[fgshepherd]

Tonight as I was walking Rocky, we came across two people standing and talking with two large lab dogs. Rocky was interested in them, his ears went up and he did sort of pull toward them (we were on the other side of the street). I just kept calm and kept saying 'heel, heel, good boy, good heeling, heel' etc. He did just that. He kept quiet, every time I said heel, his ears went down like relaxed and he would look at the dogs, but he didn't bark or whine a peep! It was a miracle! Then, we walked by a large husky who lives behind a fence. Rocky can barely see him, but he knows he's there and he didn't whine at him or bark or anything. It really was great progress. I've taken him to classes and work with him at home. I truly believe that you can take as many classes as possible, but it takes TIME for them to sink in, and it takes CONSISTENCY for it to stick. I haven't changed anything in how I train him, I just kept at it. It feels a bit discouraging at times, but when he behaves well like tonight, it feels so wonderful I could cry.

 

[KZoppa]

congrats and good job!!! progress is progress no matter how small!!!!

 

[doggiedad]

consistency in your socializing and training
is key. good job training. good job Rocky.

 

[fgshepherd]

Thanks, guys. It is good to have your support here!

 

[DonP]

I know what you mean. These dogs learn so fast that it's easy to expect their behavior to change just as quickly. It's taken more time than I expected to get Iska less reactive, but she is definitely coming around. Feels good when they do it right.

 

[fgshepherd]

I know what you mean. These dogs learn so fast that it's easy to expect their behavior to change just as quickly. It's taken more time than I expected to get Iska less reactive, but she is definitely coming around. Feels good when they do it right.

It sure does feel good! I'm glad to know it isn't a lost cause!

 

[Stosh]

Great job both of you! It's great to see the small glimmers of hope, then all of a sudden you'll get an avalanche.

 

[Cassidy's Mom]

I've taken him to classes and work with him at home. I truly believe that you can take as many classes as possible, but it takes TIME for them to sink in, and it takes CONSISTENCY for it to stick. I haven't changed anything in how I train him, I just kept at it. It feels a bit discouraging at times, but when he behaves well like tonight, it feels so wonderful I could cry.

Awesome! I agree, patience and persistence is key - good for you for sticking it out. It's not always easy, I know.