Dog Training, Take 2

Our walk before training on the Baylands Trail.

We have tried dog training in the past at A Dog's Life in Sunnyvale. It was a program called Growly Dog Training, which consisted of 1/2 hour private sessions using a clicker and treats. The trainer was often late, yet never extended our time, and didn't give us much to work with. For $50 per session I expected to get a lot more out of it. We were so disappointed with the results at the end of five sessions that we deemed it a waste of money and quit. Granted, this was almost three years ago, so the program might have improved, but it's also gone up in price.

A friend of mine recently recommended a Bay Area dog trainer to us whom had done wonders with her puppies. She sounded amazing, as she had a great recommendation, five star reviews on Yelp, and would come to our apartment for an hour long private training session. She charged a very reasonable price--cheaper than the Growly Dog Training and every other dog trainer in the area. Since certain situations with Mia are still stressful for us and we were not traveling this fall, we decided to try again with dog training.

In just one session, Mia learned more than in all five sessions of the Growly Dog Program. She learned some new hand signals for tricks, how to look at me on command, and that she must now sit to get attention--no more jumping. I learned that hooking her leash to the front of her harness instead of the back gave me more control when going on walks, and that it was easier to keep her next to me. We practiced some exercises on how to "stay" and how strangers in the house mean Mia gets treats. Thanks to all the guests who helped me practice!

We have now had two sessions, and Mia has learned that she needs to sit in her bed before she can get what she wants. Since Friday we have had very little jumping. Instead of jumping on us for food, treats, leash, and toys, she now goes to her bed and waits patiently while we prepare these things. We are practicing staying in the bed when a person comes to the door. She is able to do this by the third try so far, but eventually we want to perfect this so there is no more attacking people as they come in, and no risk of her running out the door. We are learning to walk together, as well. We now have commands for turn, stop, fast, and slow. I've realized that this only works as far as the parking lot where we first practiced, because I took her on our usual park walk today and she didn't pay attention to me at all. We need to keep practicing and start from scratch at each new location. She really enjoys all of our new "games." Everything is fun when you get chicken!

I appreciate everyone's help with training. I won't be able to have large groups over until she has a good foundation. Also, no one will be allowed to give her the same amount of attention she used to get. She has to trust that strangers are not going to touch her until she is comfortable with them. We need to end the snapping and lunging at people so this is very important. If you come over, please don't pet her at first, but you can give her a treat! Strangers mean chicken--that's what we are trying to accomplish!

New bed for the living room.

Tired from training all day.