Today we start training classes...

[Elizabeth, Bailey & Bruin]

So excited....Bailey and I start formal obedience training this evening.  I have been working with her a little here at home but tonights the night that both our worlds change...for the better.

 

I found a trainer that does small group classes.  He has 35 years of K9 training.  He has trained police, search and rescue to the good ol' everyday mutt.  On paper he has a lot of experience. He also is a certified AKC tester for all the different tests.    

 

I am a little nervous I do have to say.  Bailey has a bad habit of jumping on people when she first sees them.  Hopefully she will behave tongiht and not show her behind..  even though this is one of the things we need a lot of work on.

 

Will let you know how it goes...wish me luck...I think we are going to need it ; )

[Adina P]

Don't be nervous.  It's not about how well behaved Bailey is in class the first night...it's about the work you two will put in together based on what you LEARN in class.  If anything it would be better if Bailey was on her worst behavior so the trainer could give you the MOST help early on and ... then you'll look awesome on the last day of class ;-)

You don't need luck!  You have a traienr =)

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

You guys will do great!! Good luck!

[Jane, Rooney & Stuart]

Sounds like it is going great!  Good job.  As for the toys with lead - PLEASE don't buy ANYTHING made is China for your pet - I've been there, I know them business wise - just don't.

[Sherri, Sophie, Winston, & Kitty]

Wow Elizabeth, sounds like you have one serious trainer. I'm not a fan of the choke chain collar either, but everyone has their methods.

 

Good to know about the plastic hamburger toy. i wonder what other toys have lead in them...

[Elizabeth, Bailey & Bruin]

Well, we survived our first class...Loved it!   Bailey was the star pup.  Even though there were only 2 of us ; )

The other dog was a giant schnauser (sp?).  She was really hyper.  We went through everything from correct collars, leashes and toys for our pups.  and of course everything they said was bad for your dog, I have : (

 

Bailey's favorite toy is a plastic hamburger.  Wally the Trainer says they all have lead paint on them.  And pups could get lead poisoning.  I would thing that is possible only if they eat a large amout of them...  Anywho...

 

We worked on heal and heal sit, and down last night.  Along with the correct kind of voice to use during training. This was a challenge for me...Keep in mind "Wally the Trainer" is a retired Marine. 

 

But I do have to say the hardest thing for me is using a choke chain collar on Bailey.  I just don't like them and neither did Bailey.  But I know it is for training...so we both need to adjust to it some.

 

Will keep everyone post as to how she does.

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

This is exciting, and it's great that you were able to find an experienced and proven trainer.  Let us know how it went!

[Melody & Bruin]

Bruin is in his third week of training and we love it.  I am so proud of him, he is the best dog in the class!  (okay, so there are only three of us!!!)  Have fun!  Bailey will be the "example" dog...she's a doodle!

[Phyllis & Duffy]

I'm about to sign Duffy up to be a therapy dog - visit hospitals, nursing homes.  I'm also concerned about his jumping up and excitement.  I'm afraid we won't pass.  I'll check back to see how she does.  They are such loving dogs and who can resist that face!

[Bonnie and Kona]

Have lots of fun! I bet Baily will be the star of the class. Doodles are soooo smart. ;o)

[Sharon & Monty]

When I took Monty to classes last year, he was so excited to see other dogs.  We alway allowed them to carry on a bit before class......Until one night.  It was test night and a new lady and dog came in, of course he was very interested in them.  As she tried to pass us, she said "Four on the floor"  Oh boy, that was the person about to give out the CGC test, who knew!  Luckily for Monty he knew when to be the good boy and passed with flying colors.