I don't think Elvis would pass a GCA test

[Lambdog]

I was looking on the AKC site about this. I went down the list, thinking he can do all these things right now! Then, I saw the one where he has to interact with another dog. Oops. It would depend on the dog. Some he ignores, others he gets growly. We take him every Sat. to a big flea market nearby. He trots along beside me on his leash,weaves in and out of at least 1 thousand people. Some bring their dogs, too. He just won't let another dog sniff him. He can sniff, but they can't! Most of the children want to pet him. I've trained him to sit and allow that, for a little bit. I squat beside him and hold his leash enough to let him know I'm there. He handles children really good. Dachshunds and people wanting to pet them seems to go hand in hand, doesn't it.
So far, I've done all his training myself. I live in a very rural area. The bigger towns are at least 50 miles away. I probably need to get him to an obedience class. Honestly, I wouldn't even know how to interview a trainer for that. Guess it's back to researching. Thanks for letting me vent. I'm wanting to start him in Earthdog introduction and I know obedience is number 1. Sigh.

Lambdog

[squirtsmom]

Believe me, I know exactly where you are coming from. I just began training Squirt myself last week. It's been rewarding, but also very frustrating sometimes.

I'm also having problems with her and other dogs. She is completely submissive all the time. We don't have any friends or relatives with dogs, so her only experiences have been at the park. When she was little a not-so-well-mannered dog snapped very unexpectedly at her at the park. She wasn't hurt but has been very scared of all dogs ever since. Just like yours, she is fantastic with both children and adults, but dogs is another story!

I've also been thinking about finding a trainer to help me with her. I guess the best advice I can give you is to do a lot of research and try to find someone who has a similar training philosophy and style to your own.

I wish you lots of luck! :)

[TessieMom]

A group obedience class is the best thing you can do to get through the "other dog" thing. I didn't think Lucy would be able to pass CGC but she did great. She is very alpha and also likes to let other dogs know about it. But now, she and I can control it and she got he CGC... I promised Tess that she will get hers next.

[Lambdog]

I'm sure glad you guys knew what I was talking about. I'm :o. I really am dyslexic, so forgive me.
Tessiemom, I think that's the ticket, too. He is okay around dogs he knows! He's in love with the teacup poodle next door. But, it's the strange dog he's not sure about. And, I never know what sets him off.
Squirtsmom, sounds like we are in the same looking for obedience school boat, aren't we? :) And here I've got another baby on the way!

Lambdog

[squirtsmom]

Good luck with the baby! I am going to look soon, but I don't know where to start. Maybe a class would be good. Oh well, so many decisions!:dizzy:

[lotsadox]

I never thought that Miller would pass CGC. He had problems with people and dogs, but after 2 sessions of obedience school he did fine. If you can find a class in your area, I'd strongly recommend it. It sounds like you're already well on your way to getting CGC!

[squirtsmom]

Lambdog...I have found a very reputable and highly qualified trainer in my area. We have scheduled Squirt for tomorrow for her first private training session to help her with her separation anxiety. Once she is over it, we will probably look into a "puppy kindergarten" type class to help her socialize with other dogs.

Hope you can find something right for you and Elvis. I'll update after our first session tomorrow. Good luck! :)