Quote:
Originally Posted by Quita  ...then I see how I am doing everything wrong and ultimately messing her up. WHen she does her whining, barking, trying to get attention, I click and treat for the moments when she gets quiet. Well, Risa has me totally trained. I think I'm treating for her to be quiet, and she's training ME by acting up so that she can then get the treats between her whining and barking. |
1. You're for sure not doing everything wrong.
2. You're not messing her up. It's a work in progress.
3. Good on you, for recognizing the "chaining" behaviors! (Do you know how many folks would not have picked up on that? Or been unable to admit that's what might be going on, even if it's pointed out to them.)
4. From the few posts of yours I've read, I'm not becoming a huge fan of your trainer.
A good trainer should be fostering an atmosphere where both the dog and the human partner are set up to succeed.
Training class for sure has its frustrations and set-backs, but it shouldn't be an exercise in having one's self-esteem publicly flogged.
I think the things you are doing at home sound like they are working well for you and Risa. Trust your gut and focus on what is working for you--you know Risa best.