Back to class last night ans I'm SOOO proud of little Tess.

Usually in the hall I would work at the opposite end to the others. This week we worked at the same end and did heelwork alongside someone the length of the hall.

We did heelwork with one other person before and she stared at the dog and was distracted. This time she lunged and barked once but that was because the other dog was trying to lean forward to say hello.

Then a massive GSD came in and Tess started barking etc. HOwever we managed to sit really near to the GSD and she was relaxed, looking at it but no barking / change in posture!!!

I really think it may be helping!! She still reacts if they bark/growl at her but hopefully we are making progress.

PLus I am going to take Vince along too. At the moment he does pet obedience but when I practise the exercised with him he loves it. He really enjoys heelwork so I thought I'd give it a try - plus it's easier to do it all on one night rather than go out twice in a week
Anyway enough of my ramblings!!

good girl, it sounds as if he will get less reactive once she realises theres nothing to worry about. Obedience IS fun (common misconception!!!) the dogs love it! they love wouking with their mums!

I know Mish!! I have to admit I thought obedience was boring and not much fun for the dogs but I was sooo wrong. i said that to the trainer and she said that it's the way you teach it!! Both mine love it and I think it's good as it's a calm and focused way of working

Yes, it is the way you teach it that makes all the difference.

If a dog didn't want to do something, it wouldn't do it or it would obviously look like a dog that didn't want to do it. When I see dogs competing, you only need to see the keen looks on their faces to see that they are enjoying themselves.
It's more of a case of whether the owner of the dog enjoys it than the dog.

Sounds like Tess is coming along in leaps and bounds. She might never love other dogs but I'm sure she'll learn how to ignore them much better and not fret about their presence.

Thats great bet your really pleased with her :)

Definately sounds like its helping her taking her to obedience and giving her something to do each week. Keep up the good work !

Awwww thats wonderful news L!!!
get a video next time!

Thanks everyone. She loves to work!! Flyball, agility, obedience - you name it she'll do it!!

Well done Tess, you are so right to be pleased. Well done you for having the time and patience (know its been trying sometimes) to take her to all the lessons and letting her learn to have fun.