Parker, Obedience Week #2

So we survived our second obedience session tonight. The weather held out and we were able to walk over and back and stay dry! He was quiet as a church mouse with the other dogs this week. A few chicken noises and whining when a big dog came near or when the group congregated together for the first time. A marked difference and noticed by all who were there.

I shared our experience with Parker and Don this past weekend and fortunately we had 2 men with dog experience and facial hair around to help work with Parker. Bob works with prison dogs and/or big Rotties and walked us through a few different experiences. Parker was ok with him initially but when Bob leaned over towards him and invaded "his" space, Parker began to bark and show agitation, to the point that when Bob turned around to walk away, he would have gone after him if i let him. We practiced with Parker sitting and snacking on a treat in my hand while people came up to greet us and shake hands. Parker did very well with both Bob and Ron during this experience.

Bob seemed very knowledgeable and was very patient working with us. He seemed to agree that he thinks Parker was hit or abused in the past judging by his ducking and body language when Bob entered into his space. He is fearful but once a person turns around he perceives the fear as gone and acts all tough which one possible reason why he then goes after the back of someone's legs like he has done with a few select people. I say and think, once he learns to trust and learns that all his basic needs are met with love and care, the fear, through work and diligence, will slowly decrease. I've already seen marked improvement here in the house. And while Tink is a very different dog, once she knew she could trust, life changed for her and she blossomed.

Parker is currently sacked out on "his" chair. He really is such a good boy. It's hard work fostering and not falling head over heels for these guys!