Fearful Dog 101

I just recently helped out a friend to get a new Pomeranian puppy today. I was excited. I always relish and support people who decide to take on or adopt dogs. I think dogs are the best animal companion ever! I always share their happiness cause I've experienced it thrice and it's always a euphoric feeling especially if you've connected with the dog.

Unfortunately the cute female pomeranian that we got was a bit shy and fearful. She played around in her familiar environment, but when she was taken into her new home, I got a feedback that she was scared. They didn't know if she was sick or not. Her ears tend to droop and she was immediately taken to a veterinarian. I also consulted mine. Both feedbacks were that it's nothing serious and she's just trying to adjust. Physiologically, they say ears do take time to be pointy especially for some puppies. I don't know but according to some web sites, it's something to do with teething. I'm no veterinarian. I sincerely wish I am, but I do think the pup is just trying to absorb new surroundings and new people. As long as she's eating and she's not being nauseous, I think she's fine.

But I also remember truly fearful dogs that do take time to adjust. Case in point: Bruce.

Here are some things that I did that made him a bit better. Some are also shared by his trainers in his dog school. Most of these are not scientifically proven. It is just based on my humble experience and advice.

1. Use Food

• Dogs need food and they love food. It's just finding the right opportunity and the right treat for your dog. Treat dogs differently. Some dogs like apple, some hate it. Harvey doesn't eat banana but he loves apple. Bruce practically eats anything, but he's more of a banana guy. Chivas doesn't eat any fruit, he's more of a kangkong dog. If a bone doesn't work, try to find something with enticing aroma. Freshly cooked liver, heated dog food, freshly cooked beef cubes or any food (that's safe) that gives off a powerful and flavorful aroma. Dogs' sense of smell is strong. You need aromatic food to entice his senses and then work on the visual. Gastro-intelligence in dogs are kind of low. Food is a major tool to entice them. 
• What I did: During lunch time if you want your dog to move around, use food. Put the container in a spot you'd like him to be. Then if he goes there, encourage him and say his name in a very positive tone. Sometimes give him extra. He will translate his food reward into something good. He will learn. 

2. Use his name in a positive tone

• Dogs really don't understand the meaning of their names. They just hear it and they depend on the tone. If you get impatient and tend to call his name in a threatening manner, you're contradicting his progress. A very stern and aggressive tone will make him think twice. 
• If he does something progressive, repeat his name again while giving him a fabulous treat. 

3. Expose him to people and other house dogs. 

• Visit him all the time and encourage play. Expose all the people in your household. Encourage him to move by saying his name. If he won't budge, there's still another day. Always try to interact with the dog even if he won't react positively for the day. Consistency and perseverance are essential.
• If you have other dogs, so much the better. Sometimes fearful dogs get encouraged with other more sociable dogs. Use the sociable dog to show him that you can be trusted. Bruce initially got confidence from Harvey. Whenever I went and played around with Harvey, he would look and follow us. Eventually he learned how to follow Harvey without me and began to explore the grounds on his own. 

4. Take a walk

• Develop a schedule to walk him around the house then eventually outside. If he doesn't progress beyond the street, that's still fine. Do it again and again until he gets used to it until he expands and goes beyond that street. If he wants to go back to the house, encourage him and use his name to come along. Never threat. If he really doesn't like, well there's always tomorrow. The importance is to expose him everyday no matter how small the progress is. Walking is one of the best activities a master and a dog could share. 

5. Do not use force

• Fearful dogs will teach you to be patient. Do not be discouraged if he won't show any massive signs of progress for the day. Nobody said it would be easy. Much of the work and repetition would be initiated by the master. If it doesn't work for the day, save the energy for tomorrow. There's no use of pulling the leash and getting him to move by force. You would just end up traumatizing. They key is happy repetition and rewards for the smallest step or improvement. 

6. Touchy and supportive are 2 different things

• The trainer said that if a fearful dog gets scared and hides behind you should NOT HUG and try to comfort him in such a way that's telling him it's okay to run and hide. If you tend to pet him or  hug him while he's hiding, it might translate that he's doing a great job. False comfort will tell him that it's okay to be scared all the time. 
• If he gets behind you or run away, follow him and urge him to come out. Do not pet. Use his name, appropriate tone and food to lure him back. If he doesn't walk, slightly try to nudge the leash (not entirely pull) and use his name to keep on moving. Use the familiar term "Let's go or come on." Continuously call his name, nudge at the leash, give him rewards for acknowledging you and try to move. Never shout his name, utter frustration or pull the leash. 
• If he's hiding, keep yourself visible and use aromatic food to draw him out. If you're done for the day, let him be. Leave the food and water outside. He would eventually get out of his hiding spot. 

7. Listen to the Radio

• Some dogs find comfort listening to music. Promise. In my case, music from 96.3 works wonders. They sleep instantly with a pleasant music on and they associate happy melodic songs to happy times. 
• In my case, ballad music calms nervous dogs. Put it in low volume first and gradually increase to the average volume. 

8. Sunlight

• This is a suggestion by one of our veterinarian friends. Expose your dogs to healthy morning sun because for some reason, sunlight helps the dog's disposition. I don't know the scientific truth to this, but I'm not sure if you've observed your dogs indulge in sunbathing form time to time. Bruce and Harvey do it almost every morning. They pick a spot in the garden and sunbathe there, calmly as if they're in the French Riviera. Sometimes my mom would shoo them way in the fear of them having heat stroke, but they do look for heat and sun sometimes. Seeing sunbathing dogs are weird, but couldn't be that bad, right?

9. Visit a veterinarian. Get some medicine.

• If things don't really change and you see your dog get thinner, maybe it's time to get him to the vet. He might be feeling something very uncomfortable, an infection of some sort. Veterinarians are still the best person to assess your dog medically. They might prescribe vitamins to keep him energized and give him pills to calm down if all else fails. They might share a thing or two to help your dogs overcome fear. Droopy ears, dry notes, constant shaking are something they can diagnose and address.

10. Hire a dog behavior specialist or trainer

• This is to teach you and the dog what to do. If all else fails, a specialist or a trainer may have fool proof methods to share. They've experienced working with different dogs before and handling fearful dogs is one of their top cases for sure. If you don't have time, they can do the rehabilitation or training for you. In a way they can assess your dog and assess you at the same time if your methods of encouraging are correct. 

These are just some of the things that I did for Bruce and Chivas that might help your case. Again, these are not scientific, but I've proven to myself that it works. Well, not all dogs are the same, but wouldn't hurt trying these. I've exposed Bruce to all 10 though not at the same time and he wasn't the same pup I've met 5 months ago. With all these methods, genuine love and trust form the foundation, therefore a must. I guess these methods wouldn't successful if there were no love and trust to begin with. 

Family Dog 1 is in the bag!

This is probably the closest thing I'll ever get to becoming a teary-eyed "mother" in a sort of graduation.

Bruce officially ended his Family Dog 1 in Better Dog Canine Behavior center. And just as I had hoped, he became a better dog indeed. He learned so many basic commands that we thought he couldn't learn at all. He gets stuff so fast, he absorbs it like a sponge and performs every trick flawlessly. We learned so much about him and about dogs in general. We also learned so much about ourselves and how we deal with expectations and frustrations with our canine friends.

Bruce learned the basics like sit, down, leave it, meet and greet, by the mat, walk and different kinds of stays. He even had this sort of culminating activity with the president of a dog agility organization and the CEO of Better Dog Canine Behavior center, Jojo Isorena. Karla and I were the ones extremely nervous on the meet and greet exercise that I think both of us didn't breath anticipating Bruce will give in to pressure. But he was able to deliver the exercises flawlessly and received praises from dog elite experts and trainers. He also received praises from Better Dog staff members. He was such a star and it was a shame that we doubted him for a second.

Also, as additional words of advise from the president, he mentioned that Bruce already has the foundation of performing basic commands. He already knows the concept of obedience, but it never stops there. The learning in fact never stops and we should continuously find that opportunity to challenge and nurture him, to make exercises more complex until he grows up to be this elite and formidable guard dog we can definitely control. Right now, though he knows the basics, he is still a puppy. And just like any puppy, he still explores and does stuff he wants to do. According to the trainers, we should instill in Bruce the mature mentality of depending his actions and life at our commands. He should never decide to do things on his own. I must admit that he has not reached that level yet, but eventually he will. He is still a work in progress.

And with that, I decided to enroll him in Grade 2. With so much potential and promise, we don't want to waste his good behavior and cooperation in training. We will enroll him in the 2nd Family Dog Module, which is a more complex module with lots of distractions. After that, we might probably enroll him in the K9 training module and then enlist him and me probably in the CLASS training module and hopefully get our Bachelor of Arts, Masters and PHD! I know, it's insane! I've never imagined that there were lots of training classes and modules to develop our dogs! Bruce impressed us so much that all our efforts are worth it. He will start his 2nd module training in January next year!

Enrolling him in this class was one of the greatest decisions I've ever made. Bruce learned so much and he has developed a better personality. As owners, we also learned to be more patient, trusting and positive.

Congratulations, Bruce!!! You are such a perfect student. You definitely are a better dog now.

Tired Bruce on our way home. Family Dog Module 1 in the bag!

Hello Jump

When I go to my dogs, especially if I haven't seen them for the entire day, I get too excited. If the dogs see me in that state, they feed off from it too and go a little ballistic. They jump, pounce and run amok. Harvey and Chivas have gone past that stage and even for dogs their size, the effects are manageable. But Bruce is a bit different. He's big for his age and for a 5 month old puppy, if you're not physically strong enough and you're not prepared, he will easily topple you. Too bad he's the one who likes to sneak around.

There's something about dogs welcoming me at home that gives me a calming, euphoric feeling. It's as if all the BS I've received for the day quickly evaporates into nothingness. How they show their appreciation, affection and trust makes me feel like such a better person. As they say, dogs love unconditionally.

But sadly for specific cases, especially for large breed dogs, this could go off-hand. Bruce likes to pounce. That's his signature "hello". And when he does, he puts all his weight on you. All we can do is be prepared for slobs, couple of bruises and possible scratches. He's that heavy. Of course he doesn't mean anyone of us an harm. He's such a charming and sweet dog, but if he gets over excited, he will get physical and unintentionally hurt. Everyone in our family has their own stories of how their clothes got dirty because of Bruce. Now they just try to sneak out whenever he's around. That's just sad.

If there are exceptions to this, I would have to give it up to Nanay and Ate Ne, our two stern disciplinarians. Bruce doesn't jump or pounce if they're around. My aunt and Ate Ne have trained him to obey their "NOs" with stern eye contacts. Bruce still gets excited but for some reason, he restrains himself even if they have food with them. He just looks up, wags his tail and follows them like a crazed-love dog. I'm impressed. My dad completely ignores him, so Bruce is a bit uneasy around him and just tries to sniff him from afar. For some reason, all dogs have adapted to this silent understanding that my dad is off limits. As if they inherently know that only he can throw them off the street...including me. As for my mom, she does a poor impression of "No". It's kind of theatrical as she tries to avoid him and run away. I think Bruce finds it funny, cause he wags his tail and chases her instead.

Karla, JD and I have to work on this, especially me, the more stubborn one. I try to practice sit and stay when we see each other. Bruce does this exceptionally well, but he sits as if he waits who will be the first one to give in, not breathing, not moving and all eyes on me. Then I find it too cute and adorable. Next thing I know, I'm hugging him. He always thinks he wins this game as he hugs me back and I am always try to be not out of balance.

It's not him. It's me.

Playtime

JD Our Hero

It was Jd's first time to join us in Bruce's training session and it was Harvey's 2nd.

Harvey was there when Bruce got assessed in Better Dog Behavior Center. Based on professional observations, Bruce was so fearful and shy that he got his confidence from Harvey. Whatever Harvey does, he follows and if Harvey's not around, Bruce shuts down. So for a couple of weeks, as recommended by the trainers, I had to bring Bruce in public without Harvey just so he gets more exposed and be more independent.  I didn't intend to bring Harvey in Bruce's training sessions. And on the first day, we had forced to leave Harvey at home even if it broke my heart.

But on the 2nd day Harvey invited himself by getting inside the car. He sneaked up on us and made his way through the bushes. When we opened the car door for Bruce, Harvey immediately came out of nowhere and jumped in. He is such a smart dog that he knows if something's fishy and if that something involves a dog excursion. Of course in any dog excursions he has to be there. I couldn't bear to make him stay. I made a decision to bring him along. If he gets too unruly, we'd stay in the lobby.

But he wasn't. He was so proper and observant while Bruce was being trained. Bruce didn't even notice Harvey while he was at work. There was no problem after all. I decided to bring him along on he next training session. And JD decided to come along as well.

We parked in front of the facility and got the dogs out of the car. We were trying to get Bruce to do his "business". Karla was holding Bruce, I was holding the bags and JD was with Harvey. While baking under the sun for a few minutes, I just saw Harvey pulling out from his collar and aimed for freedom. It happened so fast, but I felt I was on slow motion. The image of Harvey getting out of his collar nerved me to death. I screamed and attempted to run after him. Bruce barked and Karla screamed as well. The next thing we knew, we saw JD dove into hard cement just to keep Harvey from going far.

An american couple and a trainer were shocked and wanted to help. They congratulated JD for his fast reflexes, but I had to take a step back and keep my heart from racing. Jack Russells are fast dogs. They're natural hunters and they're stubborn. I've read in some forums that Jack Russells are always for the hunt and they won't stop until they get it. Some JRTS do not go home for three days just because they are hunting for something somewhere. Harvey has that kind of damn-the-world trait. There were times Harvey would escape from our house and we would move heaven and earth to catch him. And it was in a secured street in the village. I couldn't imagine him running around in Chino Roces Avenue.

The truth is, if JD didn't dive and catch Harvey, I have every reason to believe that I might not see Harvey again. Either we lose him completely or he gets into a car accident. It was a wake up call for me. It was a wake up call to not bring him if there's no dedicated person to look after him and do not test new collars when out in new territories. Dogs react differently in public. They're more curious, aggressive and wild. One has to use the right and proven accessories for their own safety.

After collecting my sanity, Karla called me and told me that JD got injured. I saw blood dripping from his knees. He literally scraped himself with that intense dive. He had a look on his face like he couldn't believe it was happening. Harvey got injured too. Both of his inner thighs also have bleeding wounds because of the impact. Of course Harvey was being ignorant about it, but we were so worried. Special thanks to our caring teacher, she had ordered us some Betadine to disinfect their wounds.

I couldn't appreciate more what JD did that day. With his quick thinking and athletic abilities, he ran, dove and was able to capture Harvey. He saved Harvey's life and I would always thank him for that. If Harvey got away from me, I wouldn't have been able to do what he did. I know now not to get my sentimental feelings over my better judgment. Bringing dogs in public, no matter how used they are, entails big responsibility. They have to be at some extent protected with a focused person looking after them. Situations differ from time to time, dogs may surprise you with their actions and humans must be prepared to control it. We were not in control awhile ago.

It was an unfortunate experience for JD, but it was a major wake up call for all of us.

Training Day 3

It was Bruce's 3rd training day this morning. And after 3 more sessions, he would eventually graduate and move on to Family Dog Module 2. To be able to enroll there, he has to master the basic tricks first like stay, sit and down. On the 2nd module, the tricks will be a little more complicated. Stays would have to be longer with distance, sits would have to be more dramatic and everything has to be done with high level of distractions.

I'm fully confident he will graduate with flying colors. In terms of getting the lesson, he gets it so well to a point that he orchestrates the whole trick even if you we don't command it just because he wants to seek our pleasure and treats. He gets the command and he gets the pattern that we never go home frustrated and disappointed.

For today's lesson, we introduced the concept of "stay" by getting him at our desired position changing our distance, increasing levels of distraction and the time for him to be released from that position. Three different sets of lessons not to be intertwined at this point.

For the distance, we had to ask him to do the sit or down position in his mat, both lessons he learned last week, and we moved two steps back. For the timing, we asked him to maintain his sit position for 10-15 seconds. And for the distraction, we asked him to maintain his sit or down position while people walk in front of him with treats falling off outside his intended place. According to his trainer, this is one of the most difficult lessons the dog will have to learn and Bruce learnt it so well. We were all impressed.

There were just a couple of ironing out to do of course. Bruce grew impatient at times and had to bark at us for his treat. He had attempts of leaving his mat because of some treats falling off and he gets tense when we move back. But doing the rule of repetition, he knew eventually what we expect from him.

Again, practice is key.

Teaching STAY while Harvey, JD and I listen

Training Workaround

The key to a properly trained dog is practice. Relying everything on the trainer on a 1 hour session is never enough. For the dog to thoroughly understand the commands that could be life saving, they have to practice it with someone all the time. It doesn't have to be with one designated person. The trick could be practiced with different humans as long as they know what to expect and how to say the command. Thankfully, I have Karla involved with the training.

I think it's a blessing in disguise that she is undergoing a quarter life crisis that made her resign from her job. While still looking...casually...she has free time on her hands. She was in fact the one who bought Bruce's treats. I could practically ask her to do anything for me while I'm at work, which includes training Bruce during the day.

Just like any other adult woes, work robs us of the time to do what we want and what's essential. Not that I'm overly complaining, work after all pays my simple joys. In a perfect world, I'd be rich and not care about money, but the truth is, to be able to support my pack, I have to work. I'm just thankful now that I have a workaround.

While I'm busy with work on the weekdays, I rarely get to spend time with the dogs but just to say hello. This is where Karla comes in. Karla could step in and train Bruce throughout the day. Since she's also participating in the training session every Saturday, I don't need to tell her anything. She already knows what to do. And since she's been proactive in the sessions, I've made her the official trainer every Saturday. I've been demoted to a mere observer, which is more to my liking.

This gratitude also goes out to Nanay, my aunt, who joins us ievery Saturday and trains Bruce every night, before dinner.

Originally, if no one was made available, I would've asked and trained JD, my mom and our household help, but at least this part is kept off my shoulders. At least with Karla, I know she knows what to do and I don't have to repeat anything. I know that an important pointer wouldn't be missed.

I've never been thankful for a quarter life crisis. I think I've felt that before and it was a pain. The last time I experienced one, I believe I also resigned from my work with no warning. Well, I hope my sister finds what she's really looking for. I hope she gets her real dream job, but until then I'm happy to know that she's there to do what I can't do because of work.

Bruce's Training Day 2

On the first training day, Bruce already impressed us. For a shy dog who didn't know anything but sit, he was able to follow target lessons and commands. We learned that dogs, particularly mine, do listen if coaxed properly with the right methods. We also found out that Bruce is heavily food driven so we knew what to expect.

With three special treats in tow and a treat apron, we were ready.

The class started on time in the fabulous Better Dog facility as always. He learned three new lessons that day and had to recap the previous ones. Again, Bruce made our hearts flutter with pride. Teacher Elsie had to modify the lessons a bit to increase complexity because Bruce gets the lessons easily and sometimes already offers the trick before you command it. He would sit in front of you and look up even if you're not commanding anything. We would have to say "FREE" for him to relax and move around.

On the second day, he learned how to sit, down and go to the mat. 

Sit was easy. We taught him this already.

Down was a bit of a challenge, but he eventually got the concept. After learning the command, performing it was as easy as sit.

Go to the mat was quite hard. Better Dog lent us a sort of trampoline platform where we instructed Bruce to step on all fours and stay. There was a time we would hear him whining because he couldn't figure out that we wanted him do. He would do sit, go down and perform all the tricks he knows in front of the platform, but we wouldn't reward him. For this lesson, we had to undergo several repetitions, but he eventually got it. One problem that we have is that he doesn't actually have a mat at home. We have to buy one to be able to practice.

When we went home, we had to refresh him with the lessons throughout the day. He got the sit flawlessly and the down command. As for the mat, first thing's first. We actually need to get one. We're fairly confident that as soon as we have an official mat, practicing the command in a week's time would do the trick.

Bruce is still a work in progress, but we've been proud since day 1. He's smart and learns the trick fast. After spending an hour in the training facility, he takes the lesson with him at home. All we ever need to do is to practice it with him.

A couple of pointers and lessons I learned in this session:

• Always get the attention of your dog first before throwing commands
• Dogs are smart. Don't underestimate them. If they have absorbed the trick easily, the dog has the tendency to offer the trick without any command. Walk around. You need to command him so you would give him the treat, not the other way around. Use the word "FREE" to break the command spree. 
• For doing relatively difficult tricks, reward him with your best treat or reward him abundantly. 
• Always say his name in a positive tone. Remember, dogs do not understand what those words mean. They listen to the sound and the tone. 
• Training rule: 5 repetitions or 5 minutes, whichever comes first. Dogs too are easily bored. Following commands is work, do not overbore and overwork them. 

Training Treats

Bruce, our 5 month old bullmastiff puppy, eats almost everything we give him. Thankfully he's not into shoes, bags or anything specifically ours. Strangely, he's into cloths and car covers to be exact. He  likes chasing mops and towels instead of a ball. Goo thing he tires easily too so lately his signature of destruction is somehow bearable.

So my dog is extremely food driven. One thing you need to know if you want to train your dog. According to trainers, food driven dogs are easiest to train. Unlike Harvey who is considered a play-driven dog, training a food driven dog means less effort for the trainers. Anything out of their ordinary boring formula is considered a treat so they will pay attention and try to get things right for the reward. Good food gives you an immediate rewarding feeling, it has an instant and huge impact. Given in good proportions, they will be eager to follow and do whatever you command. It's also less effort for the trainers. You don't need to match the energy of the dog. You just have to hand the piece and let it do wonders.

That was one of the things that the trainer assessed. Bruce eats everything that we give him, even the lousy food the trainer swears by other dogs do not eat. It helps too that Bruce only eats his puppy formula. Unlike Harvey and Chivas, we decided not to put human food with his bowl of dog food. This makes him less picky. Harvey eats his formula food with rice and some specially cooked meal Nanay makes for him, which made him a picky eater. He doesn't eat pure dog food which made him a little on the heavy side. Thank goodness he balances it with exercise.

For Bruce's second day of training, we knew what to do. We prepared 3 treats we know he would never say no to. Thinking about it, I thought the easiest way was just to buy packed treats from the pet store. That was the assumption, it's cheaper and less effort. But dogs know it too, nothing beats going natural.

CHEESE

Bruce likes cheese. This was the first treat that he really liked when we brought him to Better Dog. Shamefully, we weren't prepared and only had his dog food as a treat on the first day. The trainer tried different treats and gave him commercial biscuits and processed meat, but cheese was entirely his favorite. He would try to lick off the crumbs from our hands. He became extra attentive since then. I never thought cheese was an appropriate treat. Harvey seems to like it too.


COOKED MEAT

My sister bought a beef cubes pack at the grocery for 130 pesos. Half of it, we boiled and seasoned. It was his first time to eat this last Saturday and he went almost crazy. For difficult tasks, we reserve this treat for that.

COMMERCIAL TREATS

These are usually artificial bacon strips, biscuits and jerkies found in pet stores that are made by leading pet food brands. Though this is safe and hassle free, dogs tend to favor this less. They want the natural ones. If they've tasted cheese and real meat, they would know the difference.

APPLES and BANANAS

Bruce loves Apples. He eats bananas too, but Apples seem to gain his upper hand. Nanay would slice it in cubes and he would start following her around.

Bruce likes cooked meat, cheese and apples all in that order. Sometimes we do mix and match, but for more difficult tasks we rely on cooked meat to do the trick. Next week my sister plans to buy chicken strips for more variety.

Last Saturday, I had a hand at slicing cheese, cutting bacon strips, cooking meat and packing them in tiny ziplocs to be placed in the training apron. That whole experience was strange and something new to me since I don't even prepare my own lunch. It was like preparing food for a child that's going to school only that we're not going to a school and the child happens to be a heavy bullmastiff dog that tends to eat anything, anytime, anywhere. Good thing, he's all for food and not a picky eater. We understand each other well.

Treats are an aid for dogs to pay attention. It gives them a quick sense of reward. Cut the treats into small cubes and strips. The idea is not make them full, but for them just to have a taste of something tasty and out of the ordinary.

Training Day 1

Success!!

Bruce's first training day was such a success that we can't wait for next Saturday. On his second lesson, we were so eager to go and practice the rest at home that the trainer had to remind us to relax. We were the ones more anxious and excited!!

But I love Better Dog.

They now transferred to their new office and training center just a yards away from Karrivin Plaza in Pasong Tamo Makati. They have a more modern, sophisticated and spacious facility. The main lobby has a huge area for training assessments, a well equipped grooming center and a posh reception area. Not to mention, their office is located near ATMS that you can't help but look around and purchase some of their customized toys and training tools.

Training started on time and we were led to a spacious, air-conditioned room complete with water dispenser and chairs for companions. Since I've enrolled Bruce in a private session module, we have the room all to ourselves. And the best part is that the trainer is focused only on him. I could ask as many questions as I want.

The training method relied heavily on food as a reward as we slowly embark on the "clicker" mode of training. Better dog gave me a sort of whistle that you press and makes this distinct clicker sound that the dog would recognize for a reward. It's not just your typical clicker, timing is key. As for the trainer, teacher Elsie is well versed, very articulate and has this positive vibe around her.

For his first day, he learned the name-call game, the walk with me and the Leave it then Take it lessons. For the first two lessons, it was sort of easy. Bruce did an excellent job of going to us and recognizing calling his name for a reward. For the Leave it - take it, it was a bit of a challenge. We had to leave something in front of us, his treat, then we would ask him to leave it until he asks permission from me by looking at me and ignoring the food. Bruce is extremely fast and food driven, so you could just imagine how I'd try to get to the food first. I thought we wouldn't pull through.

But we did!! After a few tries, I left the cheese in front of me and asked him to LEAVE IT. He immediately stopped in his tracks and went to me. At that moment, I was so happy I felt I wanted to cry. My sister and aunt couldn't help it. They screamed for joy.

I learned that with proper guidance, tools and approach, the dog will listen and learn. Eventually, he will know the commands and the next time he won't be doing it for the reward, but for the positive experience of your pleasure in him. The training will enhance your dog's trust in you and your belief in his capabilities.

After an hour's session, the trainer gave us a week to practice the lessons taught to prepare him for next week. We have to repeat the three lessons during breakfast, lunch and dinner time. It would be a piece of cake. Bruce was already doing sit, stays in front of us trainers and looks at us without commands. He impressed all of us.

There are important things that I've learned about myself and my dog.

For dogs:

• Never underestimate what they can do. At home you'd think they won't follow and just do whatever they want, but with proper tools, methods and repetition, you'll be surprised that dogs do recognize patterns, tone and they do follow!
• Dogs need time to relax before the lesson starts. They are naturally anxious and stressed in new environments. They should be allowed to walk around the premises first. One signal that they're okay is that they eat, play with you and roam around in a new territory. 
• Dogs need access to water in between lessons.
• Dogs need to be do their business before going indoors.
• Do not overfeed your dog when you're about to train him. They'll ignore you unless your dog is as food crazy as mine that he will eat anything, anytime, anywhere.

For Humans

• Load up with patience. Dogs are special but very different creatures. It's not like teaching a kid. Do not expect them to learn the trick fast. Repetition is key.
• It's not a walk in the park. You have to be aware of how exactly you train your dog. The tone of your voice, your position and your timing. Dog training is as technical as it gets! 
• Load up on treats. If your dog is as big and food driven as mine, you'd need like a whole jar of goodies
• Contain your emotions. Laugh and clap if you must but don't over-celebrate to the point of distracting the dog. 
• The dog needs a stern and reasonable owner. Do not be the passive one. They would defer to someone who has a controlled power.

Training is an added factor for your dog's welfare and development. It's not a must, but it's good to have. It does have its results and it does have its joys

Pre-Training Day 1

Pre Training Day 1: Nov. 12.

This is it!

• My car anti-dog shedding cloth (huge katya I specifically bought for road trips with dogs) = CHECK
• Bruce's outdoor bag (Toy, Poop bags, water dish, water, towel and treats = CHECK
• Bottle of water for me and Bruce = CHECK
• Notebook and pen = CHECK
• Camera = CHECK
• Driver (Karla) = CHECK

Unfortunately, we won't be able to bring Harvey. I know it's kind of sad and unfair, but the trainer assured me that Harvey doesn't need extensive work. He is a generally smart and sociable dog who picks up things easily. Bruce needs more work because of his fearfulness. If I bring Harvey along, Bruce's self esteem would gravitate on Harvey and he might get a bit distracted. This training module will not only teach him behavioral skills and tricks, but this is also a way for him to build his self confidence and do things on his own without Harvey's help.

We love you Harvey and Chivas, but Bruce has to be trained because he will eventually be our protector and all protectors have a keen sense of self confidence. He has to do this alone. 

We will have your friend back in 2 hours. 

Bruce's first day at school

He will be back by Lunch time, Harvey. No need to worry. 

First Day Jitters

Three weeks ago I went to Better Dog Behavior Center to have Bruce assessed for an education module. I decided long ago, even before I got Bruce, that if I'm getting a huge dog I would have to hire professional trainers in order to achieve a certain level of control. We learned a lot from Bingo, our huge dalmatian who is already in heaven. He was so big and unruly that we had no choice but to cage him all the time. For a dog his size, we didn't know what to do or what to expect. We don't want that to happen to Bruce. We don't want that to happen to any dogs.

But Bruce, unlike Harvey and Chivas, will grow up to be a 130 pound dog. He will be heavy, massive and destructive. His size is perfect for human and property protection, but if no sufficient training is set, we could emulate inappropriate behavior and give him an impression that he could do whatever he wants and that just means chaos and destruction for us. For his size and built, we have to have a certain level of control over him so that both parties won't be disappointed. Harvey and Chivas are manageable because of their size, and they do spend a lot of time indoors. But from the start Bruce is geared up to be a formidable guard dog. We have to equip him with the tools of managing situations with a level of discipline with minimal supervision.

I did some research and ended up trusting Better Dog to take care of the training part. They have accredited trainers, a safe and modern facility and their location is a 15 minute drive from my house, which is perfect. Also, I cannot discount the fact that they have an informative website, which is another plus in the decision making process. 

But I tell you, training demands a lot of effort and we're not even talking about the financial demands. Financially, yes it's an additional, shallow expense, something you could do away. Training dogs are not exactly a must. It's usually a case to case basis. It depends on the dog if it's too difficult to manage. It also depends on the owner if he has the time, knowledge and patience to train his own dog. Another factor depends on some people who need to have their dogs trained and do not have the time to do it. Training is not a must, but a good to have especially if you are really involved in your dog's welfare and development. I have two agenda, a shallow one and a serious one.

• SIZE and TEMPERAMENT
• Bruce is of a bullmastiff breed which is known to be huge, heavy dog and has the innate makings of a formidable protector. With this size, we cannot afford to NOT have a certain control over him. We need to be able to be in control before he does anything that may be too destructive because of his built. We want his size to be an asset and not a liability.
• We also want to enhance his personality well. He may be a guard dog, so if he gets pissed, he might also retaliate hard. We want to bring out the best in him the most efficient and accurate way possible. Basically, we need to consider how to read and prevent unruly behavior and we need a professional to guide us.
• FOR SHOW and convenience
• I would want one day to be able to walk with him in High street in his size and features without a leash. I know this is so far off at this point, but if some dogs could do it, definitely Bruce can. We saw this black labrador retriever once, waiting outside Nuvo bar for his master, who had been in the restaurant having cocktails. With so many distractions, the dog didn't budge from his space. I want Bruce to have that certain level of "behavioral talent."
• Who wouldn't want to showcase your dog's intelligence with basic commands? 
• As a mode of protection, the dog has to listen to me. I'd know what's best for him so he has to acknowledge my commands

Before the dogs could actually enroll in the module, the owner has to bring the dog for an assessment weeks before. From that meeting, the trainer would assess the dog's capabilities and immediate response to know the dog's temperament and cooperation to gauge the complexity level. The trainer, based from the initial assessment, would also decide if the dog could be trained in a group or in private. I initially thought it was just one of those visual inspections and facility tours but the assessment was kind of serious. Certain interviews and tests were done and we stayed 1.5 hours in the facility. 

The academy trains a minimum of 4 dogs and maximum of 6 dogs per class. Sometimes, you'd have to reserve a slot in advance as the start of the class depends on the number of participants. If you missed the current batch, you would have to wait until they round up participants or if not, just do the private sessions. 

Private sessions are more effective, but more expensive. If a group class would cost you 6 thousand pesos for 6 sessions, the private ones will cost you 10 thousand for the same number of sessions. It's more expensive, but what's good about private sessions though is that the trainer is focused on only one dog for a full hour. The chance of absorption and speed of learning will be more enhanced. Also for private sessions, you could dictate and modify your schedule for certain cases. 

The trainer had to test Bruce on his response factor, his temperament, his fears and inhibitions. 

Bruce is definitely a food driven dog, which is perfect for the Academy's teaching method. He doesn't attack other dogs and he eats in foreign territories. He is a cuddly and an amiable dog, but was tagged as shy and fearful. If there's a new dog in the room, he would not do anything but sit beside me and observe. Unlike Harvey who gets excited with new companions and territory to explore, Bruce doesn't want anything to do anything with new people, dogs and new things. He would just sit beside me. The trainer wanted to change that, which also made him decide that a private session is the way to go. He might not be aggressive, but the trainer figured out that putting the fearful puppy in a sea of new dogs, might only lead to frustrations for me and stress on the dog. As a continuous assignment, socialization in public would have to take place everyday. And so far so good. I started to walk Bruce in the village park with minimum issues.

The trainer gave me a schedule and asked me to be at the training facility on November 10. I hope our first day will be good and then he graduates to grade 2, eventually grade 3 and have him enroll in some K9 guard classes. 

This is it! I've prepared a notebook, his leash, his stuff and asked Karla to drive us to the facility and document the whole thing. My brother wanted to go if not for his training. My parents and aunt are interested on the possible outcome. Tomorrow is Bruce's big day and I think we are more excited!