We have continued with our walking adventures as the cooler months have progressed. We do not get to go as often as we did in the warmer weather, we are working around the cold, the flu, school projects and the holiday season. But, we are still at it and have not had any wild aggressive incidents in many months. For Christmas, Ryder got a saddle back pack, he now carries the water on the walks. He is very proud of this new responsibility, and prances in the beginning of each walk. He has a job!!!

I believe the statement “a tried dog is a happy dog” is true, and a long walk is key. Our walks have really progressed and many of the behavior issues have become less of a problem thanks to training, consistency, and persistence!

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Another afternoon walk. We were trying to wait out the cold wind. I think the dogs behave better in the morning. The dogs, Deuce, Rookie, Ryder and Yazzie were a little edgy. We had some snapping and some low grumbling growling noises. It was very windy, we encountered a few people and dogs, nothing special.

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Walked the lake with Deuce, Rookie, Ryder and Yazzie. A little out of practice, but after a few yards they fell right into step. Lose leashes, staying right by our sides.

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behavior, dogs, walking Hide

Taxing walk in the afternoon, three times around the lake, walking 5 dogs. The first time around was eventful. The dogs were excited, and the time of day was different. A lot of people out and about. We encountered a woman being pulled around the lake by her three Samoyeds. They were out of control from a distance, and as they got closer the ferocity of the frenzy was insane. Now our dogs were adding to the craziness, with pulling, whining and barking. Fortunately we came to a wide spot in the path and we could pull our dogs aside and try to redirect their focus. This was not easy. We went around twice more so that the experience could end on a positive note.

Tip: To redirect focus, you can use Watch Me and issue various commands as found in our FUNdamentals courses

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