More Lessons

Last night Emme had her first lesson from her new dog trainer. I was looking for a class to take Emme to for basic obedience classes. We have previously completed a puppy class and now I think Emme is ready for the next step. On the advice of my next door neighbor, who is into dog rescue and who is very knowledgeable about dogs, I contacted a local woman who does one-on-one training in the home. She came last night for the first time and I was very pleased with the one hour lesson. She brought with her some boiled chicken for treats and I was amazed at how small the pieces of chicken were that she used for rewards. She took a small cube of chicken and tore it into about a dozen pieces, each about 1/8 inch square.

She also brought clickers. I have read about clickers but never used one with Emme. The clicker simply replaces the word "Yes" or "Good" when the puppy does something right and is followed immediately with a food reward. She worked with Emme to get over her shyness with strangers and on the postures for "Sit" and "Down." Emme already knows sit, but she hasn't yet figured out down. She did very well last night with the clicker and the chicken.

The trainer suggested using a soda can with a few pennies in it when Emme barks at people walking by the house. When Emme barks, shake the can. Usually that startles the puppy and they stop barking and you say "Quiet" and immediate reward them for being quiet. I haven't tried that yet but will fill a 7-up can today. She also recommended some techniques for stopping Emme from jumping on people and for walking on the leash. I was pleased with the trainer last night and we have another session scheduled for May 3.