Before we started with Off-Leash Dog Training, one of our dogs had a major fear of strangers. In fact, she was afraid of the whole world. I had trouble even getting her to walk to the end of the driveway when I first got her from the shelter. She used to cower in the corner or at the very back of her crate when anyone walked in the front door. Our other dog had some fear of strangers but not nearly as bad. He was stubborn with attitude issues about when and whether he would obey. No longer!

They are both dramatically different animals than they were several months ago when we started. In the beginning I was skeptical about using the collar too, and although we saw improvement almost immediately it took about 3-4 sessions before the changes became real apparent. It took several months to get to where we are now mostly because I do not have THAT much time to devote to training.

The “shock” from the collar is kind of like a whistle – it is an attention getter. It is not a punishment. It also reinforces the fact that YOU are alpha, and dogs (like kids) follow the leader or go their own way. They are not “naturally” well behaved. We have to show them how to be. I have only had to turn the intensity up a few times with the stubborn one.

Now, both dogs respond to voice commands and only need an occasional “awakening” touch when they are in training or new situations. The fearful dog comes (shyly still) to greet our guests, but her tail is wagging. It only takes a pat and a word now and those gigantic ears pop up and she starts her happy wiggle. The stubborn one obeys well and doesn’t have to be coaxed with treats – he still loves them though.

Now, we only use the collars in training or for that extra level of control when we are going to be in new and scary situations – like the crowds at the New West Festival. The dogs were very nervous at first, but recovered quickly, thanks to their training my encouragement and a “light” reminder a couple of times. I was amazed at how well they did after they got over their initial fear at seeing so many people, hearing all the
noises and being exposed to so many different and new smells. Our dogs got lots of praise and pats for being so well behaved at the festival – from complete strangers! I handed out several Off-Leash Dog Training cards – unsolicited – LOL.

Thank you Ryan! Our dogs are much happier and our friends and family can enjoy then now, too.

Janet H. – Fort Collins, CO