I didn't realise how good we had it at the dog club we were in in Canberra. On Thursday I joined a new club and was put into a level 2 class. They did a mini assessment so I didn't have to go back to the very beginning which was great. BUT they are definately not a positive only club. Check chains everywhere and was told I needed to check Milly more to bring her back in line etc. I almost had an argument with the instructor when I wouldn't do that. I was so dissapointed. Then Milly started to bark at one particular dog that was also barking and growling at her. She has never done this before and the instructor said I needed to nip it in the bud before she gets aggressive etc. She really doesn't have an aggressive bone in her body it was very reactive though. I think because of the tension in the class. So I will not be going back there. Anyway today I tried another club after many questions about there training methods etc. I had questioned the other club but was assured it was a possitive only club NOT. This one however looks much better. NO choker chains anywhere and their rules are very obviously based around a possitive method. So relieved. Milly was great there and behaved very well. So we can just watch there introduction to the club power point and go straight into the obedience foundation coarse. Which I think will suit her down to a T. Aparently they are the only club in the area that is fully possitive in all ways. The others all say they are but really aren't. Not to say they are terrible clubs but just not for me. Anyway I'm looking forward to starting next Friday. Milly showed no sign of reactivity like Thursday night. She do bark a couple of times at other dogs but more in excitment and after a relaxed greeting all was fine. So here's hoping it all works well and we have a new place to train. I'm looking forward to getting back into it fully. They also have a great puppy class for when Milo comes in April. It's on a seperate day so I will be able to do both. Sorry about the long post just had to get it off my chest I think
Re: Joining a new club The new club sounds good Really glad you found a decent club after that negative experience. Can't believe any obedience club would use aversive methods in this day and age. Good thing is you have the knowledge to discriminate - sadly, a lot of people do not. Canberra is blessed with great dog clubs, you are so right there. Milly and Milo....aw, so cute
Re: Joining a new club Glad you found a positive club for Milly and eventually Milo Unfortunately there are still too many trainers out there that say they are positive, but aren't Good luck for next week
