Mia is frustrating me a lot lately

[BostonBanker]

At risk of the dog training gods striking me dead, I'll take a different approach to the issue.

We have dog reactive dogs. General "we", although certainly I'm included in that! We don't try to make them love every dog who walks down the street. Instead, we teach them that they need to be able to coexist and that we will manage the situation so they don't need to worry. It sounds to me like Mia is "human reactive". So why try to force her to take treats from strangers? Why not teach her there is no reason to worry because she won't be forced into a situation she isn't thrilled with. Massive treats and ball and reinforcement from *you* when she is able to be comfortable around other people. Teach her she can focus on you and not be concerned, because you will be sure other people aren't going to bother her.

The change in Meg after I stopped trying to make her like other dogs and just started to make sure she never had to worry was remarkable. She walks confidently through crowds of dogs at trials and on the street now without a second glance.

Just a thought from the other end of the spectrum.

 

[Laurelin]

My real concern is her upcoming CGC test. The person she has taken her vendetta to is the person that will be keeping her in the supervised separation portion.

Of course.

 

[*blackrose]

I tell you what. I'll take Mia for a week, and you take Chloe for a week. Then when we get them back we'll both say, "OMG, I'm so glad I have you and not the other one!"

Seriously, there needs to be a support group for people with "issue" dogs.

 

[Doberluv]

Remember, Mia is still young. How old is she? I forget exactly. Let her be a puppy and don't worry too much. She has lots of growing up to do yet.

 

[JacksonsMom]

My real concern is her upcoming CGC test. The person she has taken her vendetta to is the person that will be keeping her in the supervised separation portion.

Of course.

I've always wanted Jackson to get his CGC. Because he really is a canine good citizen. I think he brings a good name to small dogs and dogs in general. So many people just fall in love with him, his personality, everything. He's the easiest dog in a lot of ways; I don't ever have to worry about bringing him in a public place, he's always polite, he greets other dogs perfectly, he walks on a leash great, etc... the separation part is what I'd be reallllyyy concerned about. If he can SEE me, but is separated from me, he often whines or barks or tugs on the leash towards my direction. And don't they also have to be checked over by a stranger, with them grabbing his paw, looking into his ears, etc? I think he'd give them a WTF look and be like don't touch me. lol. I guess it couldn't hurt to try to take the test tho. He will be 2 in October, I could wait a bit longer.