YORK PA -Ceasar is a 1.5 year old GSD. We worked with him last year and Mom and Dad called because they admittedly “slacked off” . During this time he began to pull again on the leash, stopped responding to recall and most importantly took over control of the door. He snapped right back into it. After a good Silent Loose Lead walk we returned to the front yard for a 5 minute plus off leash, no command Focus Drill. After that we taught the family “The Drill” basically using both focus and economy of motion to get the dog to HEEL, SIT, DOWN, STAY, and COME only speaking to the dog to get them to COME followed but tons of verbal and physical praise. Then we went back inside and showed them how to take back the door but conditioning Ceasar to focus on them instead of someone at the door. Ceasar is an amazing example of the breed and was great to work with.
RED LION PA -Xena is a 1 year old Cane Corso / Presa Canario. Being a mix of two of the most powerful breeds known to man, Mom was not able to physically control her with strength. It was especially bad on walks when she would see another dog. As with all breeds but especially with the larger ones, you cannot rely on words and muscle to control the dog. It all comes down to mentally conditioning them using control of movement, eye contact, and touch. During a walk we passed several dogs where Mom noticed a distinct change. Then we got to a house where there were two dogs with an underground fence that typically caused Xena to flip out. Most owners avoid these triggers while walking thereby ensuring their dog will never learn to focus on them instead of the trigger. Instead we stood on the corner and within a few minutes Xena would sit or stand with a loose leash while the two dogs barked at her. Once she was physically under control her barking followed. Once back to the house Xena was able to accomplish a 5 minute + off leash stay in her front yard to the amazement of her Mom. Xena was easily one of the most powerful dogs I have ever handled. Now Mom is well on her way to having this beautiful girl under control and enjoying rather than struggling with her.