ArbDogs? Pics!

[Doug Tait]

23 minutes ago, David Cropper said:

Still the same Doug. We took him for a ride this morning, parked next to a river in the car park, got him out, no lead as he is good without one, didn't like it as it was a strange place, then trotted back to the car. He'll never change hit that's ok with us. It on my morning walk he meets another dog, he's not got a problem with the owner, he knows that they are ok. If he meets someone on their own, he doesn't feel safe. All I can think of is getting another dog for him bit that's not really feasible. My wife is still not confident with dogs apart from Charlie. He's lying on my feet at the moment, I can't move, fat sod. That's the dog, not me.

I get what the thinking is with another dog to give him confidence, but rather than another dog to help him, perhaps you could channel your inner dog to replicate that...

 

My perception of your river walk this morning is that you arrive at a new place, get out the car and then linger around to let him familiarise himself. As he's not confident though, I imagine that you lingering around looks like caution/indecision by the pack leader which would reinforce his worries. And when he decides you need to get to safety and heads for the car, you follow him back which tells him the whole pack thinks he's right.

In my opinion a nervous dog needs to see a pack and leader that are trustworthy and confident. If you get out the car at a new place, try popping him on the lead and instantly make progress, a decent pace with your chest out and head high like you own the place might help his mindset.

Edited March 5, 2022 by Doug Tait

[Doug Tait]

@David Cropper

 

jan fennell books https://g.co/kgs/BPzoXH

 

If you're interested then I rate The Dog Listener and The Practical Dog Listener from the author linked above. She brings a lot of clarity to the subject, very helpful to understand how a dog can see "human" behaviour very differently to how it's intended.

[Rac man]

Here's my new gsd furry missile picking him up in 2 weeks

[Rac man]

So sorry to hear that it's the hardest thing to do to say goodbye 

[roboted]

So sorry to hear this J. I feel I should say more but I don't have the words.

😥

[sandspider]

Sorry to hear that, J. Looks like she had a good and full life at least.

[Bob Morris]

J, A fine tribute for a faithfull companion.

[monkeybusiness]

Very sad news J, really sorry to hear that.

[roys]

Aww J heart goes out to you, our little 4 legged family members have a special place in our life.

[Stubby]

Jonathan mate . So sorry . It is always coming and never gets any easier . You gave her the best life possible and she repaid you in spades bud . She will always be remembered I know .