So I’ve finished reading the BAT (Behavior Adjustment Training) book and almost finished watching disc 1 of the 2 disc training DVD set. I have to say that I’m becoming a believer! Usually Suki becomes “Cujo” on walks when she encounters a dog. I’m not talking about aggressive/biting, but she barks and lunges. The couple of times she’s gotten to the other dog (more the other dog charged her), she just sniffs and sits. Unfortunately, I’m deaf and my arm is ripped out of the socket by that time. LOL.
On our afternoon walk yesterday, I noticed a big improvement in Suki’s behavior. We encountered a few dogs in yards…and no lunging! There was barking, but no lunging at all! That’s HUGE with Suki! Instead of telling Suki to “sush”, I gave her the time to make her own “right” decision. She barked a few times, then quieted down and turned back to look at me. A click, walk away (the functional reward), praise, and a treat then we were on our way. Normally on walks, I have to use both hands to restrain her and physically get between her & the dog to quiet her down. I was so impressed yesterday! Now granted, the dogs were a little farther away in a yard then walking right by them on a walk, but we have to start somewhere.
Suki encountering dogs on leash before starting BAT:
Suki encountering dogs on a walk after few BAT sessions:
My end goal for walking Suki while encountering dogs:
