Starting Training with Gryphon

Gryphon's training began on Saturday. We started by teaching him to follow us while on a 30ft long line. He is doing well learning what the stimulation from the collar means. He is also learning the place command. He will stay on"place" while we are watching TV or eating dinner, even with the distraction of the other dogs. He is also learning to stay on place when we leave the room for a minute. This is a bit of a challenge for him, but he is learning it quickly. Although he is young and playful with a few bad habits, his training is progressing along nicely.

To Downtown Again

I took Spencer and Pirata back to downtown Lincolnton yesterday. We had more distractions this time than the first time we went down there. Spencer did super with all of the walkers, cyclists, skateboarders, and even a few dogs. We did have a challenge on our hands with a pack of very negative dogs and their so-called "handlers". Situations like this are tough for any dog. This family with their 3 very dog-aggressive dogs lunging at us was almost too much for Spencer to deal with. However, I was able to get him under control and we continued our walk.

This type of situation is going to be YOUR biggest challenge too. The key to dealing with this is to remain a calm assertive leader, give him a tap with the collar and then continue walking, or, if need be, put him into a sit to regain your control. Once he is under control again, then you can continue your walk. You have to combat the other people's and dogs' negative energy by being a firm, but calm leader.

More Training with the Place Command

Spencer has done excellent with his "place" command. He goes right to his bed and stays there until I tell him he is free to get up. He really seems to enjoy his "chilling out" time. I will also bring his bed into our bathroom when I am getting ready, so he can hang out in there as well. He is even helping to teach our puppies about "place" by being such a great example.

Spencer in Downtown Lincolnton

I took Spencer for a walk dowtown yesterday with my dog Pirata. He did great around the cars and people walking. He stayed in a heel while we walked and did a few sit-stays to pose for the camera. He heeled next to Pirata on our walk. This was good for him because he had to stay in close proximity to another dog while maintaining heel position. We also encountered cat along the way. Spencer did great with no aggression issues.

Working with our dogs

Spencer is learning to follow his commands even among the distraction of other dogs. He is doing great with all of his commands. Our female German Shepherds have been great companions with Spencer and have helped to teach him how to be a dog again and read doggie body language.

Sitting and waiting at the door

Spencer is doing well with sitting at the door and waiting until I allow him to pass through. Consistency will be important when he comes home. You will want to reinforce this behavior to prevent darting out of the door after people or animals. On a side note, the UPS man showed up at our door yesterday and Spencer did great. He sat at the door while I greeted the driver. He was not aggressive with him.

Spencer In Training

Spencer came to us a very territorial, insecure, and dog-aggressive dog. He is now learning how to socialize in a pack. He has been doing very well with the dogs we have here as well as dogs that come in for boarding. He has learned to relax on "Place" when in the house and he has also learned to sit and wait at doors before coming in or going out. He is now 90% off-leash. We occassionally use a leash with him during his obedience, but for the most part, he no longer has to have a leash attached.

Baron and Bela Videos

Here are a couple of quick clips of Baron and Bela.