We have finally... (UPDATE #2)

[Shelteez2]

If you don't mind can you outline what your homework is? Just curious, and always looking for new stuff to learn. Good luck in working with Rita!

[*LabLoverKEB*]

No problem!

She wanted us to do some other things, such as leadership exercises, (We learned A LOT about being 'the pack leader) a feeding schedule (WE eat first), Door waits (Rita must wait until I/we go out the door, then she may follow.)

-Practice obedience commands, (sit, stand, 'watch me')
-Make her earn EVERYTHING. (No free treats/meals)
-Start using a gently leader, instead of a pinch collar. (I think this gentle leader is going to work out well.)
-Take treats on walks, to work on obedience commands
-Avoid dogs at this point, make a u-turn and go the other way, until she can see what she is like around other dogs. (She is going to bring her Rottie & Cattle Dog next time)

[*LabLoverKEB*]

So, Dawna is coming today around 11ish... I'm kinda nervous, she's bringing her two dogs (or one of them, I'm not sure...) But please keep us in your prayers... I just hope nothing goes wrong. Her dogs will be in crates in the back of her car, and we'll just go from there. She specializes in agression issues, so this should go okay today... I really hope so. Thank you!

[Karen]

Oh, good luck!

[Moesha]

Just wondering how it went today.

[*LabLoverKEB*]

It went very well, thanks for asking!
Dawna suggested we go to the dog park (she wasen't able to bring her two dogs)... she wanted to see how Rita reacts to other dogs. Rita did what she normally does, growl, and whine a lot. So Dawna just had some treats in her hand, and she did the 'watch me'. So basically were just trying to get Rita to realize that seeing other dogs is NOT a bad thing... we praise and treat her a lot when she makes good choices. (Not looking at other dogs, and throwing a huge fit)