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Monday, November 9, 2009

my version of training

I think training is one of the most important things you can do for/with your dog but I also understand that for everyone, training is something different.

When we just had Baily we were always in training classes. We even did some competition obedience. Then Mesa came into our lives and we had to take big steps back.We started focusing on what we call everyday training. We taught the dogs they could not get up on the sofa without being invited, we taught them which rooms they can and cannot be in and what seems to impress our friends the most is the fact that our dogs wont touch our plates unless told they can. Without hesitation, I will put my plate of dinner on the ground and walk into the kitchen to grab something. When I come back everything is just how it was.

Recently I have encountered people who think my dogs haven't been trained because they don't know any tricks or because we don't compete in any competitions. I have the greatest respect for any dog who knows a ton of tricks or competes in Rally, Agility or Competition Obedience but that just isn't something that will happen in our lives.

Sorry for the rant but it has been bugging me.

9 comments:

PoochesForPeace said...

All that matters is that you and your dogs are happy, and it sounds like you are! In my opinion, them not touching your plate could almost be thought of as a trick bc that's hard work for dogs! :)

Ziggy Stardust said...

Mesa and Baily I think you are very good doggies. Some peoples have a different idea of what training is, but I think what ever our Mommies think is right for us is the best. I don't do a lot of tricks either.

licks and sniffs, Sasha

Shauna (Fido and Wino) said...

It sounds like you have very well behaved dogs- well done! I have an idea! Go to your nay-sayers for dinner & put your food on the floor. When their dogs scarf down your food ask if there are any OTHER tricks they know ;)

Sam said...

Definitely agree with you, even though I train competitively. I try hard to make Marge a dog who is easy and pleasant to live with. Though I have to do some things differently - for example, she doesn't get in trouble for laying next to my dad at dinner time with pleading eyes, as that's really the only time she's not afraid of him - most of my principles are the same.

Tiffany and the Munchkins said...

It sounds to me that Mesa and Baily both are very well trained. Training, in reality, means something different for each dog owner. If the training you have accomplished with your dogs works for you and them and fits in with your lifestyle then you've done what you set out to do! I need a few pointers on teaching the munchkins to not steal food from my plate! I had Tiny trained not to steal food but Bentley and Lexus just don't seem to get it. :(

The Adventures of the LLB Gang said...

I love that you have the most important of all training, manners, as a priority... :o)

Smileys!
Dory

Two Pitties in the City said...

We had the same experience. Our one pooch, Mazzy, knows all of these tricks, but poor Bruno is not so bright. So we are happy that he can sit, lie, wait for his dinner and not climb on furniture. Also, he is naturally very obedient, but I think all pit bulls listen to their owners, even to bad owners.

Kari in Alaska said...

Thanks guys! I knew you would understand. Each dog is different and having more than one makes training more difficult than people think!

laura said...

I'm afraid to admit that my Granddog Duncan is a dingbat and not trained at all. He can sit, shake hands, lie down, and high five, but he does them all at once and not in any real order! But I'm very thankful that my daughter took the time to make him a people dog. She would sit with him while he ate, and take his food away from him, give it back, take it away etc... take him on doggie play dates...He's such a sweetie and loves everyone. He will eat when he's ready and doesn't care who's around his food. He loves to play with cats and never barks at anyone on our walks. Owners need to be responsible!!