Hudson came to us about six weeks ago. He was very very lively. I soon realised that I hadn’t trained any of my previous dogs. They had learnt from the dogs I already had, they’d just come in and followed the pack. I had just been taking the credit! After some research and speaking to a few dog trainers, I came across The Dogfather (Graeme)
The one to one session was excellent. We talked about the psychology behind training and what is needed of me to allow Hudson to follow and get the leadership he needed. The insight to how Hudson was thinking made many of his actions completely understandable.
Much of what we discussed seemed so obvious when pointed out, as correct answers often are. Nothing suggested was difficult or complicated. But it had to be consistent and the timing had to be right.
The recall training session was a few weeks later of sticking to the “rules” and a real corner has been turned. Hudson was never a bad dog, just very excitable and on a bit of a hair trigger. He’s now learning how and when to let that excitement out: How to behave in different situations and how to greet people without bouncing all over them! I have a much greater appreciation of what he needs and how to encourage and reward the progress he is making.
Thank you Graeme for your help and excellent instruction. Added 10th April 2011
(Read more about Andy’s experience with Hudson and Dogfather Training by clicking here…)
