[CachetheBC]

Just wanted to say that I empathize with you - it is rough out there sometimes! Even though we rarely come across loose dogs, and my pup can be 'that dog' ( reactive) at times, it is annoying as heck to have to repeatedly deal with dogs behind fences, on balconies, even on leash, that react with growling and barking as soon as they hear or see us. (Where are their owners?) I try to stay focused on him, working on keeping his attention off of them, 'find it' works great for this, and reinforcing him for not reacting to them as we move away- helping him learn that all that 'noise' they make just means more good stuff for him.

I think though, that because Pup has the opportunity and enjoys playing, interacting with non-threatening dogs it may help to build that 'social padding' that can help to minimize the impact the less social dogs may have on her.

 

[CachetheBC]

For good news, I've got: I've recently taught her "around." Nothing fancy, just circle me and sit at my left side. She has decided to incorporate it on her own in a few instances where we had to suddenly pull off the path for runners and a bike. Just a really beautiful flow there.

It is always a good feeling (and pretty amazing) when we see them choose on their own to use the skills that we have taught them.

On this morning's outing, Pup found an abandoned baseball. While not a fetch enthusiast, she had great fun chasing it and bouncing around it, throwing bites. And don't let the lighting fool you, this was the crack of dawn. Ah, if only I had her joy of life.

Nothing like starting your day with a bit of 'sunshine'!
They have a way of reminding us to make sure we take the time to have some 'serious' playtime in our lives!!

 

[CachetheBC]

I feel your 'pain' - Oakley can be 'that' dog who loses it sometimes and totally get the pride and joy when he doesn't make a scene when he sees another dog (though I can tell it is tough for him - lots of praise and rewards). He does remember those spots where he has experienced an upset and tends to be a little more vigilant the next few times we travel that same path.
Absolutely, sometimes success can be only measured in baby steps, but there is every reason to be proud of them, and so much to be thankful for!

 

[CachetheBC]

This was supposed to be a "relaxing" pre-vet walk. What is with it? I've run into more of these situations with Kaiya than all the other dogs--and even my parents' dogs-put together. I almost think it's us, but we're literally just walking and minding our own business.

Sorry that happened! I understand your frustration! Similar things have happened to me, it seems when I am out with one of my pups who is having difficulties that I am trying to help them with, the 'worst' dog owners come out of the woodwork - the regulations, leash laws don't apply to them. There are some dog owners who do 'get it' and make a point of allowing/giving some space- which is really nice, but there are those who don't understand (and/or they just don't care) which can make things miserable for everyone.

 

[CachetheBC]

Hang in there! She may surprise you!

Good to hear Kaiya is doing well over all.

I know it can feel kind of 'hopeless' sometimes. All we can do, is what we ask of them, and that is to not give up and 'try again', there will, no doubt, be good days, and some not so good days, and that is okay!

 

[CachetheBC]

If there is anything I have learned over the years of sharing my life with multiple dogs who didn't quite fit the 'mold', it is to celebrate the good stuff, - the successes. No matter how seemingly small they may be, each success helps to build confidence and prepare them for the next 'small' (big) step to living a happy, enjoyable dog's life.