In need of support!

[Nikki & Charlie]

So Charlie has started training on Saturday and I'm already having a hard time adjusting. We are taking him to someone who I swear is the dog whisperer lol he's wonderful. He's saved so many dogs who were going to be put down for their aggressive behaviour and has re-trained them and basically saved them. He has 30 years experience and over 5, 000 hours of training, approved by vets, etc.

I have extremely high hopes and I know that he's going to do an amazing job with charlie!! But as Charlie's 'mother' and owner, it is so hard for me to see this training take place and to challenge him in a way that he's never been challenged before. I know I'm just being sad for Charlie and this is going to benefit him in the long run, but I'm finding myself having a difficult time right now.

I'm hoping others can relate... and that it gets easier as the weeks go on! Ugh.

[Nikki & Charlie]

Thank you very much! A trained dog is a good good and I'm determined to make that happen. I want a dog that everyone enjoys being around because he listens. It's definitely tough but it's been three days and I already see a dramatic difference. Thank you for your reply :) 

[Maryann,Roo and Tigger]

Glad we could help - misery loves company or something like that.  Sometimes it is very frustrating, but it will be worth it.

Stay the course, and thanks telling us we helped

[Deb, Connor & Simon]

Nikki, I am a trainer in VA. I have trained a whole lot of doodles as well as my own two, and lots of different breeds, crosses, purebreds and shelter dogs. 95% of my business comes from vets, groomers, pet professionals, current and former clients.I also train dogs/puppies for CGC and therapy dog certification and am an AKC certified evaluator and Therapy Dog, Inc certified tester/observer. CGC and Therapy Dog do not allow treats of any kind during testing. That means no treats during prep, etc.

I can unequivocally say, your dog is not trying to dominance you. He may need clearer boundaries, but first and foremost dogs just want to be dogs. If, at any time, this person you are going to does anything or asks you to do anything that you are uncomfortable with, that Charlie is uncomfortable with or hurts Charlie, you need to walk. Period. Trainers who train properly with treats do not give them so your dog "behaves." It is a reward, a reinforcer NOT a bribe. I do not know the person who is training your dog, but in my experience, most people who have been training dogs for 30-40 yrs are using outmoded techniques that bully your dog into submission. As far as a behaviorist goes, I'd like to know what professional certifiying body of behaviorists condone the thumb under the chin maneuver, because I have never heard of one that would.

I have found even the bounciest, most stubborn and goofy of doodles respond to positive training. If they get pushed too hard or harshly, they either shut down or start acting out as a manifestation of anxiety.

Sending all good wishes that things work out well with Charlie.

[Deborah Brown]

This forum needs a way to post a giant "LIKE"!

I apparently didn't have the words to convey my concerns about the training methods described.  The thumbs under the chin thing was a big red flag for me too.  Thanks for posting.

[Kate, Mel, Tenley & Harper]

I, too, wish this forum had a "like" button because I completely agree!