Bonding With Murphy

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

This is probably much more of a blog than a group discussion, but since it's all about training I decided it belongs here.  You all know that Murph and I have been going through some "tough times" since he became a teenager.  We have been training every day for weeks....and I DO mean every day (I have the bad hair to prove it on those "rainy days").  Murphy is a pretty difficult dog.  He is strong and very stubborn...he's all about WHAT HE WANTS.  Treats and praise are a big joke to this guy....he'd much rather have a goose, or a squirrel, or a jogger. We've had some pretty frustrating days of late, but yesterday and today were wonderful.  He was so engaged with me, and there was none of his usual nonsense.  Now tomorrow could be completely different...there are ups and downs. I'm ready for that. Today I started to think about what has happened with our relationship over the past couple of weeks.  As I was looking at him today while we were training, I realized that there was no way I could love this guy more than I did at that moment.  He was heeling right next to me....totally engaged with me...and his only "fault" was that he kept trying to lick my left hand which was by my side.  I have always read that training bonds you with your dog.  It "sort of" did with Guinness, but definitely not to the same degree as with Murph.  Guinness and I went through all the classes...he did exactly what he was taught to do (quickly)...and he was happy while I was proud.  With Murph the experience has been nothing like that.  We've had to work so hard together to make progress....little by little.  He was never the most "affectionate guy"....that was Guinness's role.  Lately though, that's changed.  He is now the one who wants to be near me...he's the guy who presses his body next to me in bed at night with his head on my stomach.  So, now I do totally believe there is something to be said for what training can do for your bond.  I also am starting to think that the more difficult it is, the stronger that bond becomes.  What a wonderful gift.

[Pat and Traveler]

Oh, Jane! What a wonderful story! I swear there are moments when your dog makes you so happy you find tears in your eyes. There are the other times too, when the tears are from frustration, but this bonding process is absolutely fascinating. Way to go, Murph!