School Daze

[Peggy51]

Lady went to school again tonight.  She's doing very well, but she has such a big mouth.  At home, she's pretty focused...well, she's focused in school, too, except it's on all the other dogs.  I was talking to one of the trainers and commented that if Lady were human, she would be standing in the corner the entire class.  The trainer just laughed and said, "she's a typical eskie."

Anyway, she's improving every week.

[Kathy]

Don't worry about the barking too much. As long as Lady is learning what you want her to, the rest will come.

One thing that works for me is--don't punish the barking, praise the quiet. Going to class is all about showing the dog what you want her to do. Being quiet is a thing they can learn to do. So often we tend to ignore our dogs when they are being good, then react when they are being bad. Try doing the opposite. Lady watches the action without barking (even for one second), say "YESSSS!!" and praise or treat. I'm a big believer in treats. Lady looks at your face, say YESSS!!! and praise. Lady rests by your side, say YESSS!!! and praise.

When she barks, say UH UH. The split second she stops, say YESSS!!! and praise praise praise.

Mine still bark sometimes but they are dogs and sometimes I just want to let them be dogs.

[Peggy51]

Thanks for the suggestions.  I will practice them.  She is just the coolest dog!  She is so willing to please, except in school...and sometimes the barking.  For the most part, she's quiet at home (except when 'daddy' gets home).  She barks pretty often in the car, tho.  I asked in class about it, and the instructors said to 'crate her.'  I don't really want to do that because she isn't fond of the crate.  Someone on this board suggested that I put pennies in a can, and shake them when she barks.  I haven't tried it yet.  We've only been for one ride (to school), since I got that suggestion.  Anyway, I appreciate all suggestions.  Thank you.