growing up?

[debbiej]

when I first got my girl, I posted about concerns I had. they involved her behavior toward a vet tech, men playing ball, and a special worry, children. But she has become much more relaxed and confident in every situation. not much bothers her. Today I took her to work and we sat on the patio, where she acted like every customer had come just to see her-one dog welcoming committee. Anyway, a mom with two small children in a jogger stroller came to the shop and the mom asked if she was good with kids. I said she is friendly, but hasn't been around many children. the mom came near first and petted hilda, who was very mushy with the woman. then mom let her little girls come near. I was holding her on a short leash and watching her closely, because the girls were very small. first hilda sat, then layed all the way down and on her side to make herself more approachable. she tried to offer her paw too. This and many other behaviors are so different than when I first got her. I'm wondering if she is just growing up? Could it have been the obedience classes? they were very basic, not much beyond heeling and sit and down stay and some recall. But her confidence and social skills are increasing by leaps and bounds. starting the second round of obedience soon.

[Judi W]

Obedience classes teach much much more than just following commands. It teaches the dog to trust its owner's decision making ability and know how to respond and what is expected in behaviors.

I suspect it is her wonderful owner, her own innate being, training and maturity but the first two are the most important.

[debbiej]

thank you Judi W. for all your help, direction and the vote of confidence. I just love this dog.

[Luvs]

It sounds like Hilda is maturing into a wonderful partner for you. You should be very proud of how much the two of you have accomplished together. Good job!

[SABELLESMOM]

Well, Hilda is certainly maturing, she's learned how to respond properly thru you. The laying down to make herself more accessable was probably her idea, as was the offer of the paw. But the overall acceptance of the children (situation in general) was your doing...having had a decent dog to start with.

Keep up the good work! Hilda is well worth it.

[debbiej]

I feel lucky to have found her! we still have a lot of work to do, but it fun and is rewarding. I guess my confidence in her is growing too.

[Luvs]

Originally Posted by debbiej

I feel lucky to have found her! we still have a lot of work to do, but it fun and is rewarding. I guess my confidence in her is growing too.

Isn't that a GREAT feeling?

[debbiej]

(how many characters is a biggrin?)

[Squeaky2004]

Originally Posted by debbiej

(how many characters is a biggrin?)

ummm 9 I think lol. Congrats to you and Hilda for a great accomplishment!