training clubs

[Kev&Kel]

Hey everyone,

Right, ive had a browse through the GSD training clubs, but im not sure if they are right for sam as most seen agility based. What im looking for id a GSD club, where i can take sam for some socialization and general obedience. Im looking for a GSD expert, and GSD club so that everyone can understand sams situation. Which is that he lacks socialization. Also if anyone is local and wouldnt mind a fisty shepherd we could meet for walks? i live in the midlands.

Ive tried all the advice on here, and taken advice off of experts and dog socialization on sams protectiveness of the house and aggression. Everything has failed... now this could be down to me, i dont know. Sure does feel like ive failed time and time again. you all know the story if anyone walks past the house he goes made, he trys to eat other dogs when were out and lunges at people, not listening to a work im saying, we walk early in the am, and late at night to avoid contact with people, and we cant have friends round, or bbqs or dinner nights because anyone sam dont know in his house he trys to attack. We also cant go on holiday for fear of leaving him in the kennels, and were to terrified to take him with use, he dosnt recall at all you see. I pretty much have no control over this dog. My fault ? maybe. but its not through lack of trying believe me! We cant rehome sam as hes aggressive. Not that we want too!!! but he is ruling and trashing our life to the point where we are arguing almost daily.

Anyway... things are going to change one way or another! Ive decided to try and interact sam with people, and dogs, treat the cause. this isnt going to be easy hence why i need specific people in a specific environment... so if anyone can meet for walks? or recommend a good gsd club that would be awesome.

Thanks

[Kev&Kel]

cant edit post... excuse errors.

From what you describe Sam needs obedience first then socialisation. Have you sought 1-2-1 help from a trainer / behaviourist?

[Mazz]

Hope some-one comes on soon with advice for you, we had a issue with lunging at dogs like a mad dog, we joined a training club, just to socialize, the trainer loves shepherds anyway, and understands her.Our dog is brilliant at the school now after only two lessons.but she still try's it on we me on a walk. The trainer say's it's not a problem with her, it's with me.I worry about 'what if's'.I am getting there, it's hard work when they think they are the boss,shame I'm taking that authority from her.Maybe the tension your dog is causing between yourselves, he is picking up on, as they do.I hope you dont think I'm being rude or blaming you for anything, was just telling our story, so you know your not alone, people do understand. Good luck.
Mazz

[Kev&Kel]

we have posted similar threads and topics before, however we just arnt getting anywhere... ive more then milked my fair share of advice from the form, just dont know who else to talk to, and yes we have had a behaviourist who wasnt much kop. didnt even meet sam, as he said "hes rather aggressive". Cost a bomb as well.

[wildmoor]

sorry kev wrong area for me otherwise I would, sorry not read your other post that I can remember can you tell about sam
how old was he when you got him? and how old now?
what bloodlines is he if you know
what is your routine
at what age did he become aggressive
what does he do? when he reacts what is his body language like

Hearing a lot of negativity; you need to turn this around You don't say what you have tried specifically...? Generally speaking here... those I know who have 'problem' dogs have (unknowingly) allowed the dog to behave that way, not put boundaries and the right training in place. Or don't have the experience the dog demands.

Often the dog doesn't know what the owner wants. Little obedience or structure. The owner hasn't been consistent or fair with the dog. Training a dog is easy for some.. they have a knack, for others the owners need training first.

And the behaviourist who didn't even meet Sam, yes that's pointless.

[Sammy2011]

Not sure whereabouts in the midlands you are, but you can always try this link, believe classes are held at the weekend. Hope this helps
MIDLAND COUNTIES GSD AND ALL BREEDS TRAINING CLUB

[Sammy2011]

Sorry forgot to add, I knew about it, after googling, unfortunately its a little far for us to travel too, though it sounds ok

[kita]

Originally Posted by Kev&Kel

we have posted similar threads and topics before, however we just arnt getting anywhere... ive more then milked my fair share of advice from the form, just dont know who else to talk to, and yes we have had a behaviourist who wasnt much kop. didnt even meet sam, as he said "hes rather aggressive". Cost a bomb as well.

I take it this 'behaviourist' was not a member of any organisation?

Try looking here:

APBC Members by Region | Association of Pet Behaviour Counsellors

As these work through veterinary referral (to rule out any medical problems first) their fees are covered by insurance, if you have it.

Any decent trainer should at least meet the dog. It is really difficult to give advice over the internet or over the telephone, you cannot get a true picture without seeing the dog and the family face to face.

Not all GSD specific clubs/trainers are good ones, what you really need is someone who trains 'pet' dogs, not someone who is 'into' competitive obedience, agility or working trials etc.

Sue