Training Addie: Session #9

We trained at the dog park today. Matt has been training her on one side of the dog park since we started there. Today he moved her training near where the packs of dogs and people hang out. This added another layer of distractions which brought out her stubborn side. Then it was my turn to work with her. She was pretty stubborn with me as well. Given that this is only the 4th lesson at the dog park, Addie is doing great.

Since my background is in research, I have continued researching the pros and cons of different types of collars as well as training methods. When is comes right down to it, I believe that each owner needs to choose what is best for each of their pets individually. We have found what works for Addie. In addition to her sessions with Matt, I work with her 15 minutes at a time several times a day. I love that I can see her improving every day. She enjoys what she is doing and it shows!

Lucie is enjoying the dog park more and more each time she goes. As always she proves to be the ultimate distraction for Addie! Tonight a male German Shepard got a little to bossy with her which turned her off from wanting to play with the other big dogs which was a shame because she met a wonderful Old English Sheep dog her age named Higgins that wanted to play with her so badly. Maybe on Monday. Higgins training session is after Addie's.