 Barked: Sat Nov 17, '12 2:47pm PST |
 | |  | | I have struggled with Charlie's reactivity and behavior problems for 3 years now, always seeking advice online and trying to take everything into my own hands. Perhaps this works for some, but it obviously was not working for us. Yesterday I saw a professional trainer/behaviorist and that one meeting has changed everything, and I wanted to share our excitement with you all!
After asking a lot of questions and evaluating Charlie, we were asked what our goal was. I said "Well, it would be nice to be able to take him to the dog park". Our trainer responded with something so simple that never really occurred me. She said "I can't guarantee that. I honestly don't think Charlie WANTS to be at the dog park. I don't think Charlie likes other dogs."
I have always been angry at Charlie for not wanting friends, and frustrated that he doesn't respond well with me. Our relationship had been crumbling over the past year, and I think we are finally on the right path to fix thing. It is much easier to work with Charlie when I remember that our goal is to keep him calm and happy, rather than to make him social.
Our trainer has been wonderful, and she taught us a fun game to play with Charlie and use whenever he sees his trigger. Things are already improving rapidly! Wish us luck! |  |  | |  |
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That's great. I'm so happy for you. Hope your results keep getting better and better. 
