I am Stumped

[adojrts]

Originally Posted by RedyreRottweilers

I don't understand why someone would attempt to train this exercise by setting the dog up for failure, first with the tight leash, and then by beginning with the excited approach.

I would not attempt it in this manner! The dog is certain to fail!

Why not train the dog through positive inducive measures to sit and stay. Why not then have people begin to approach in a neutral manner, and reward the dog for success. And then why not build on the success with gradual increases in the excitement level of the greeting process, rewarding the dog for success along the way?

I really do not understand what the instructor is thinking in this situation. Not at all.

That is what I am thinking too.

To the OP, keep in mind that your pup/dog could shift and change for each class (and during each class), unitl the behaviours START to become consistant. (meaning they will progress and regress between each class/week). That all depends on the dog, your experience and how much you invest in your homework.
Good luck.

[Alimel]

I am not at all thrilled with the training she is receiving now, however, I am learning from asking questions to others with experience and working with her at home quite a bit.

She is a work in progress, I have to remember to be patient and consistent, baby steps

One thing to keep in mind, Alimel, is that dogs need to succeed. Especially in the beginning of teaching a behavior to a dog, I try VERY hard to set the dog up for success.

later, once a dog has learned, you can let the dog know what you want (sit,wait..good!)

I would find this exercise very different if the dog was on a leash hook and not being held by you.

Wishing you all the luck with your second hand girl, it is not easy sometimes to train a big active strong really happy dog. HANG IN THERE!

[Doberluv]

I didn't want to "come down" on the Petsmart trainer (because they all vary) but was thinking the same thing....that this is not starting with baby steps. Starting out by making things difficult, adding to the nervousness is not apt to make the dog succeed. Maybe another trainer might be helpful? Well, whatever you do, I hope things will improve. Good luck.