K9Jarko

Interesting that an instructor of any venue pertaining to dog training/sports would say that something can't be done. I don't know if it is actually your case...but if my dog or I did not feel comfortable, wanted or welcomed at any training facility - I'm outta there and fast.

Yes you can teach ANY dog to walk nicely on a leash with just a flat collar....just takes time, patience, consistent and progressive training that should be based upon the individual dog. There will always be people that are not comfortable with certain breeds....but you can definitely teach your dog to be a good ambassador of the breed with obedience training and maybe change some opinions.

As for teaching your dog to be calm around other dogs - on a leash it is fairly easy....you can actually follow the same method one uses to teach a dog to be calm around two legged guests that enter the house or that you pass on the street. Big thing is to curb the undesirable behavior BEFORE it starts. Watch your dog when he's around whatever triggers the undesirable behavior....usually a few cues in reference to his body language (nub/tail, ears, body position) occurs before he begins getting excited. Give him a command that he knows ie., sit or down BEFORE he begins to spin and reward him. He should look to you for permission to meet and greet. You need to remain calm and in control - remember knowledge and emotions flow down that leash. Best to start from some distance away from an unfamiliar dog and then move closer as you progress. If your dog is one that is easily stimulated (sound, people etc.,) best to exercise him a bit before you begin training.

Congrats to both of you for completing basic obedience and props to you for wanting to continue!