Military life can change a way of life quickly and pet companions need to do the same. Not only are family dogs needing to up and move too, but sometimes where military families live is not necessarily in their hands. What results, is making sure everyone and pets included adjust well to their new community as well as feel relaxed in their new home.
Nick and Jess were frustrated in the beginning with Stella barking and lunging at passerby’s both in the backyard and while on walks. They knew Stella being a powerful breed, they wanted her to be gentle and accepting of her new neighbors. So, Nick and Jess were ready to put in a little work.
As they transitioned to a busier and more condensed community living, Stella faced challenges of children running by, riding their bicycles, other dogs being walked by their people and living on a corner proved to be the challenge. Everyone came by every which way, and with longer daylight in the warmer months meant more people out and about with more opportunity for training.
Together, we worked on helping Stella look for Nick and Jess when things she perceived something strange and scary happened. We incorporated games like “Find It” as fun ways of teaching, but also as a strategy of helping Stella change her mind. The aim was, anyone, including dogs who walked by the yard, Stella was going to learn seeing or hearing them meant attention from her people which she loved.
After a few sessions, Stella is more relaxed while on walks and in her backyard. She is less interested in what is going on because Nick and Jess helped her to know the busy road, the passerby’s and visitors only mean good things for her ALWAYS!
Four Paws & You Dog Training 