Realistic Expectations?????
Tiggy did her usual "I have a visitor" act. This involves running and some jumping on and off the couch. The trainer was horrified to put it mildly. 
She insisted that its all a lack of leadership on my part and that Tiggy is old enough to have better behaviour. That the fact that we dont actually have many visitors is no excuse, and neither is the fact that she's a sheepie an excuse; as the breed of dog has nothing to do with my lack of leadership. I am also having some issues with Tiggy running after my dalmo barking and rounding him up when we first get to the park and she will also chase other dogs if they run. The trainer maintains that this is all part of the same leadership issue. What do you guys think? Am I copping out and selling Tiggy short or is it fair to cut a 14 month old sheepie some slack when it comes to visitors and a strong herding instinct. Thanks in advance for your ideas and experiences. |
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| My own opinion is that you're copping out. Tiggy is old enough to learn that you are the alpha, not her. She should do what YOU want her to do, not what SHE wants to do. We may think it's cute when they "attack" visitors because they're just being goofy, but not everyone enjoys being jumped on by a large dog. Plus, they can't tell the difference between a child visitor or an elderly visitor, both of whom could be hurt if knocked over.
Sounds like it's time for training. |
| well I have a problem with the whole alpha concept - BUT I do think you are copping out. 14 months is definitly old enough to have the basic concept of the expectations. Part of it is your management. We don't have many visitors either - but the dogs are expected to be controlled and contained when we do. that means I make sure everyone is in their "space" before I have people come in. |
| sorry about the embarrassment you felt. I know all too well the feeling. Chiquita is now five months old but it seems to me that because she's big (as big or bigger than most of her adult doggie friends) that people have WAY too high of expectations for her. I mean my god she's only five months old.
But I have to admit....when I dig in and train and pay attention, things improve. Just wanted to pat you on the back for taking the first step and having the trainer in. I'm sure with a little more focused effort you'll get the results you and trainer  want.  And don't take it too personally. I mean after all, who has a perfect dog????? |
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