Nothing gets my goat as much as people who can’t or won’t control their dog: it’s totally unacceptable to allow your dog to run up to another dog unless you have first checked with the owner that they are happy for the dogs to meet
It’s not always a walk in the park
“I’m fuming. I took Lexi to her favourite park yesterday for a run-around. She’s recovering from her radiotherapy for a brain tumour and the outing was to be a real treat for her. But just 3 minutes into our walk we were accosted by a black cross breed who ran up to Lexi and tried to jump all over her. I managed to fight it off while calling to its owner to come and get their dog. He took no action, the dog came back for a second go at Lexi and my husband had to chase the dog off, with the owner shouting abuse at both of us. Poor Lexi was shaking and we had to come home.”
I’m fuming too on behalf of my friend and fellow dog trainer. She’s been through a difficult time and not inconsiderable expense getting her gorgeous Weimaraner the treatment she needed. Lexi was diagnosed with a brain tumour a few months ago after going blind. My friend has undertaken an over 100 mile round trip twice a week for 5-6 weeks, while caring for Lexi and holding down her job as an over-stretched nurse in the NHS. Thankfully the treatment has worked and Lexi has her sight back.
They both deserved a lovely relaxing walk. But it was ruined by an unthinking, uncaring owner and an out of control dog.
As our Perfect Pet alumni know well, nothing gets my goat as much as people who can’t or won’t control their dog.
It is totally unacceptable to allow your dog to run up to another dog unless you have first checked with the owner that they are happy for the dogs to meet.
Allowing your dog to pester another dog or person is not socialisation
You do NOT have the right to let your dog off lead anywhere unless they are under control – that’s the law. (Except dog parks, which I avoid like the plague – but I won’t get into that rant just now…)
Nor does it matter one jot whether your dog is “friendly” or not.
Keep your dog under control at all times – and if you can’t be certain your dog will come back when you call, it should be on a lead.
Every dog owner I know has several stories about being accosted by an out of control dog – it’s happened to me many times. But the problem seems to be becoming more common.
Does your dog come back quickly, every time?
Luckily there are many caring, responsible owners who would love to let their dogs off lead more but are aware that their recall is poor.
Is that you?
You are the people we want to help.
I’d love everyone who has a dog to have a brilliant recall – because then you can let your dog safely off lead in the knowledge you can call them away from any problem. Which is why we have revamped and redeveloped our Reliable Recall Masterclass.
This new class will run over two sessions, on 16th and 30th October. We’ll teach you how to train your dog to have a recall other owners will go green with envy at. Through our games, you’ll not only teach your dog to come back quickly, every time you call, but you’ll have fun and develop a better relationship with your dog, too.
Join us for two session of fun and frolics – it all starts in a couple of weeks’ time.
And the more people who can control their dogs, the better my blood pressure will be!
Keep training and stay safe,
Carol
