Owners frequently tell me how 'clever' their dogs are and that's true but not in the way they mean. My dog Ellie got stuck behind a fence recently and couldn't work out that dragging a nearby log to the fence would enable her to hop over easily. That kind of logic is beyond them.
What she, and all dogs can do, which constantly astounds me, is read other animals and that includes us. You cannot lie to a dog. Things you can hide from your spouse, sister or mother you cannot hide from a dog. He'll read every minor shift in your mood and react accordingly.
I had a gentleman owner struggling in class recently with a Border Collie who pulled incessantly on the lead.
To give the owner a break I swapped his dog for Tally my little yellow Lab who was trotting along at my heel. Within five minutes Tally was pulling him along while his Collie was walking happily by my side.
Both dogs read the situation and adjusted their behaviour, it's what all dogs do and you cannot fool them.
It isn't what you say that influences your dog's behaviour it's what you are thinking and it's the number one reason dogs lunge at other dogs.
If you see another dog approaching and picture an aggressive response that's exactly what you will get.
Dogs do not worry about the future or dwell on the past (humans do that) dogs live in the moment. That's why dogs who have just fought each other will lie down together five minutes later.
In order for dogs to overcome previous bad experiences YOU need to let go of the past and project confidence. It's not easy at first but you can do it with practice. I have seen too many success stories to be impressed with set-backs.
Once you are on the journey rehabilitation is inevitable.
On Sunday September 25 I will be at Teggs Nose Visitor Centre Buxton Old Rd Macclesfield from 10 am with my Canine Behaviour Clinic. For a £10 donation to a local animal charity I will work one-on-one with your dog to resolve any behaviour problems.
Just text me on 07590-560012 for an appointment or simply turn up on the day and I'll see you ASAP.
