[Carina43]

I've had Cooper in a couple of fun matches last fall (yet to do a real one yet!) and he was kind of the same way - he would just get reactive and stupid around lots of strange dogs. And he is just like Xander - he shuts down if he gets too many corrections. I either have to figure out an effective way to ask nicely so he listens the first time, or come down on him like a ton of bricks so he does what I say just because.

What I did (it worked, he was very good in the ring) - got there really early. Walked him around the perimeter until he was used to all the other dogs, and sort of worked in concentric circles until we were mingling with the crowds of people & dogs - by then he was OK and calm, paying attention. Then I put him up in his crate until shortly before showtime so he wouldn't be all tired out.

Oh - I also didn't feed him breakfast (mean mommy) so he was REALLY fired up for treats! He did real well, very attentive and ready to work. Probably did better than me, actually!

Have fun! I'll PM you if I'm going to be there - I'm in MI now but lived in Denver for years and Coop's breeder & litter-sister owner are going to be there. If I have time I'm driving out. :)