Building self-confidence takes time and, in my opinion, is not one sided in other words the handler usually needs some confidence as well. There is a lot of human emotional baggage that goes along with having a reactive dog. What will it do, when will it trigger, I'll be embarrassed etc etc etc. The more relaxed you are the more relaxed your dog will be. When we anticipate the dog may react, we tend to pull on the leash or give some reaction first - which can trigger the dog.
Tuesday in class, Jane commented that I seemed more relaxed. Kim always tells me that Shane does better when I'm calm. I'm taking the Rescue Remedy instead of giving it to Shane. Perhaps I should try the calming oils I bought for him as well.
It is hard being in public with a reactive dog. Last week I was in a hurry and walked both dogs together. Stupid decision. We were doing fine until we turned the last corner heading home. Almost there! Over the rise comes a man and a Doberman. Can't cross the street because a car is coming. We head off the sidewalk into the grass. Dogs go nuts and race around me tying me up in leashes. Man stops and stares at us like we were circus freaks. His dog is staring as well. "What are you looking at?" I glared at him and he finally walked away. Dogs calm down and we get home. I'm walking them separately again, but come on people.
No comments:
Post a Comment