Update on our decision to go forward with training for Chewie.

[Laura & Chewie]

We actually just had the trainer who does the boot camp out on Saturday
to meet Chewie. After interacting with Chewie, she felt he is a dominant
dog, not an aggressive one which are our thoughts also. We are going to
go with the boot camp training. The more we think about/discuss it, it
makes sense. After all, service dogs, dogs for the blind, for autistic
children, police dogs, etc are all trained separate from their
prospective owners and then successfully incorporated into their household.. So, we are very optimistic that this will (hopefully) be
the correct choice for Chewie and for us.  We are fully aware that this is just a "jumpstart" and we will still have work to do once he gets back home, but a "jumpstart" is exactly what we feel we need at this point. 

What we have learned is, just like children, no dog is the same as another, so not one theory and/or method works for all.  Believe in the alpha/pack dog theory or not, you only would have to observe Chewie in my home to know he thinks he rules the roost and we need to take that responsibility back from him, so we ALL can be happier.  Chewie is a wonderful, loved dog and we can't wait to go forward...he is scheduled to begin his week-long boot camp next Tuesday, Sept. 7th.

Will keep everyone posted.  Thanks again, so very much, for all your advice, caring and concern!

[shelly]

Good for you, Laura! This sounds very promising! I can't wait to see how Chewie makes out!.. I am sure you are on your way to a new "Chewie" Good luck!

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

Great news! I can't wait to hear how it all goes. Chewie is a great dog and you are a wonderful owner for caring enough to get him the proper training. Paws and fingers crossed here on our end :)

[Frannie & Callie]

Sounds like a great step forward and I look forward to hearing about Chewie's progress!!!

[Leslie and Halas]

I hope it goes well. Keep us updated on his progress.

[Lindsey, Lee, Whopper and Simba]

It will be really interesting to see if this makes a difference. Good luck Chewie! (and family too)

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

My best wishes for all of you that this will be a wonderful new beginning for Chewie and your family. I applaud you for not giving up on him and giving this every opportunity to be successful! Will be anxiously waiting to hear how to goes!

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

I'm so hopeful that you'll have tremendous success with this training approach. I really do hope it will give you that "jump start" that you need right now. It's clear how committed you are to Chewie....this is a lucky Doodle to have you. Keep us posted, and I wish you (and Chewie) all the best!

[Adina P]

I hope it works out fabulously! I look forward to the report on Sept 14th...or 15th or as soon as you can report!

[cheryl & oliver]

This is great news Laura, I am so looking forward to hearing how Chewie does when he gets home. I really think you are just a wonderful doodle Mom, and that ypu are giving him every chance to be your family dog. He is one lucky Doodle. thts for sure. And I like the fact that you know that you will have to follow thru when he comes home. Hugs to you and Chewie...Keep us posted...

[Nancie & Gracie Doodle]

Good luck to Chewie and your family. Please do keep us all posted. I'm sure Chewie will respond beautifully...fingers and paws crossed!

[Maryann,Roo and Tigger]

Excellent step forward. Please keep us informed when he comes home and you keep up the basics.

[Laura & Chewie]

Thanks so much everyone! I'm really looking forward to positive updates in a couple weeks. Gee, what am I going to do without Chewie for a whole week?