# Anyone have to do a guide dog switch?

Category: Animal House

## Post 1 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Thursday, 17-Jul-2014 16:05:02

So it's been 8 months since I got my second guide and we're just having more and more issues. I've called the school several times and they've given me ideas on how to work things out with him, but I feel like it's just not working. They have planned to send a trainer out to work with us in a few weeks hopefully if that works out, but I'm a bit skeptical.
So I'm wondering has anyone found a guide didn't work out and asked for a new dog? If so how was the request received, what were your biggest fears/what led you to that decision? Did the new match work out better?
I'm wondering if I'm hanging on to this guy because I feel bad giving him back even if it's not quite working out or if maybe I'm being too picky and need to just keep letting things continue to see if things do work themselves out.
Any helpful feedback/stories are welcome.

## Post 2 by CrazyMusician (If I don't post to your topic, it's cuz I don't give a rip about it!) on Thursday, 17-Jul-2014 17:54:23

Meow, you and I have chatted about this. I have struggled with this with Jenny, particularly in the first 6 months. But I guess the question is reasonable, but perhaps ask yourself these:
1) Is the behavior workable? Is there any improvement, no matter how minute?
2) Are there certain stimuli that trigger behavior XYZ (scrounging when it's raining, for example?) Can the stimuli be mitigated?
3) Is the behavior a dealbreaker?
Only you can answer these questions. Please feel free to send me an email if you'd like.
Huggles,
Kate

## Post 3 by BigDogDaddy (Help me, I'm stuck to my chair!) on Thursday, 17-Jul-2014 18:32:25

second dog syndrome can always be the hardest to deal with. You have to balance your expectations of your previous guide verses what's happening with the new guide. Often it's a matter of needing to formulate a new team. I know your feelings though as in the long run, my second dog had to be returned, and it was difficult to want to go and train again so soon after leaving school. That being said, my third guide and I worked for several years.

## Post 4 by season (the invisible soul) on Thursday, 17-Jul-2014 21:28:53

I think, there are a few thing you need to ask yourself, and perhaps list it down in an order.
What is acceptable and not acceptable for you wit the dog, and also what is the time frame for you to try to improve the issues with the dog.
There are some biological and genetic issues that a dog may have, it is not always a straight line. Sometime, with a dog, it can be a bit of a hit and miss kind of situation. As a handler, it comes to you as to what you willing to accept, what you can work with it, and what you can't.
I'm in your situation too at the moment. And my trainer has been great with me. We working on the issues for the last 2/3 months, and see much improvements on my dog. But then, is that enough for me to keep him, is his progress enough for me to work him when the support may not be there is a question that i need to ask myself. Also, how much i can keep up with it and not, is some questions that i need to ponder for the next coupole of weeks too.
What i think is important is that, to realize that, there are always more than one way to approach the problems, and it is quite normal to have failing dog guide.

## Post 5 by gizmobear (move over school!) on Friday, 18-Jul-2014 7:43:57

what issues are you having with your dog? if they gave you the tools to work them, what is happening or not happening?

## Post 6 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Friday, 18-Jul-2014 17:06:00

Thanks all.
Carlos there are several issues, I think the biggest is he doesn't seem to listen to me. I can give a "forward" command complete with hand signals and he'll go left or right, like a full 90 degree turn. He does this when I give him the "curb" command and we are approaching a corner as well. This is happening in unfamiliar areas, so it's not like he's anticipating a route we've done before. The other day he saw me pour his food and ran to it before I gave him the "break" command. If I tell him "no" and repeat a command, he often starts cycling through different behaviors as if he doesn't know what the command I'm asking for is, even though we've used it every day for the past 8 months. I've done "rights" with hand signals and gotten complete "lefts" and vice versa. Trainers said to make him sit and chill out when this cycling happens and then start over. Also said to immediately correct and treat when he does the "right" thing. They told me to bring back treats, which I stopped because he was getting super distracted and hyper before with treats. So I have been and I haven't seen any improvement, granted it's only been two weeks since the treat reintroduction.
He is very distractable and often
turns his entire head to browse at things or people or noises, etc. Just yesterday we were in the middle of a street crossing and he heard that swoosh sound a car makes when there's water on the road, and he turned his entire body to watch the car pass, which made it a bit difficult for me to realign us and complete the crossing. They told me to keep repeating "curb" and make him find the correct curb spot then treat. I did this yesterday as he was veering about 5-6 feet to the right during many crossings, it did not help. The question was raised about my following/body alignment, I am very conscious of my body and positioning, and make it a point not to "steer" him or push him towards any direction. I've even had sighted people watch to be sure my position was aligned with the opposite curb and their comments are "it seems like he just wants to go right as he's crossing". I was also told I have super good following behavior during training, so I suspect this isn't the problem, but I'm sure the trainer will give me a more professional opinion about this when she comes.
He's having issues with right side clearances. Iimmediately correct and do the area over again, which works, but the following day we often have the same issue in the same spots. Not to mention he's gotten to randomly sniffing at things, like he's been sniffing at people and the bus floor, when we're at the edge and I'm trying to locate the hand rail to step off or on the bus.
I think that about covers it :D
I had a lot of issues with my last dog as well, but they were definitely different issues than this guide. I've tried super hard to do everything the way they told me in training this time because I know I slacked off with obedience and reworking with my first guide, so I guess part of me is just a little discouraged that even with all of the extra effort I've put in already, we're still having major issues.

## Post 7 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Friday, 18-Jul-2014 17:07:19

Oh and I think you are right in that it's all about what I am or am not willing to work through. I just feel like if I'm not willing to work through some of these issues with him, then I will like not be allowed to train with another dog...like it means I'm not "dedicated" enough or something.

## Post 8 by season (the invisible soul) on Saturday, 19-Jul-2014 7:12:40

If the school disqualify you from training with another dog because of the failiar with your current dog, i would strongly recommend you to change training school.

## Post 9 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Saturday, 19-Jul-2014 13:32:19

good point

## Post 10 by UniqueOne (I'll have the last word, thank you!) on Sunday, 20-Jul-2014 21:07:03

aww, meow..I'm so sorry you're going through this! Not cool!
I can't even know how you must feel! I have my 1st guide and she does have a sniffing issue, and sometimes she does go left or right when I want her to go straight. We've gotten lost a couple times because of this. I bought a gps app to help us find my way back after my neighbor had to come get us!
But, since she's only been at her new home for a little over a week, I know I can't be to harsh or judgmental on her.
I think your dog will get it. I think that having a trainer person come out is a really good idea! Also, do you have something called a gentle leader? I've used it on my guide and it really calms her down and keeps her more focused.
I hope this helps! Will be praying for you!!

## Post 11 by CrazyMusician (If I don't post to your topic, it's cuz I don't give a rip about it!) on Monday, 21-Jul-2014 10:26:06

Gentle Leader (or in my case a Halti) is the best investment I made for my dog.
Jenny is a sniffer/scrounger, so it's always a struggle with her, but consistency is key.
Kate

## Post 12 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Monday, 21-Jul-2014 10:28:12

Tried the gentle leader, for a couple weeks, was not effective.
lol I seriously feel like I've so tried everything.

## Post 13 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Monday, 21-Jul-2014 16:27:47

And I forgot to say this but thanks all so much for all the support and kind words.

## Post 14 by MusicFan (Generic Zoner) on Monday, 21-Jul-2014 17:06:30

Hi Meow don't have a guide dog but my heart goes out toyou. You talked about how your dog turns his head at different sounds. Now, I know dogs will turn there heads but with him turning his head like this do you think he has a hearing problem thus he can't hear things well? It's just a thought from a non-guide dog person's point of view. Just from what you have described it seems like maybe he has trouble lining up with the places because he can't hear well. It's just my two-cents. I'll be praying for you.

## Post 15 by season (the invisible soul) on Tuesday, 22-Jul-2014 1:37:07

Sounds like you have exhausted the resources and training skills you have with your dog. If i'm you, i'll talk to the trainer asap, and ask them to do something about it ASAP. It could be that the dog needs more post training training, or simply, pull out of the program. It is bad for you, and for the dog, and also, could have potential danger to you both if it is not focus on it's job.
I think, this is beyond gentle leader behaviour, sounds like, the dog got pretty high level of distraction.
As for the time being, maybe try to do some strict obedian with the dog?

## Post 16 by WillieTheWoof (I'll have the last word, thank you!) on Tuesday, 22-Jul-2014 16:40:24

May I ask a question: how old is your pup? Is he an energetic rather driven sorta fellow or a more relaxed and quiet critter? I ask these questions because 1 year ago I went back for a new dog. My black lab retired after 6 years due to epilepsy. I like an energetic driven dog but with that comes a level of distraction and strong willed behaivior. I've had some similar experiences. He was the first dog I had that saw a piece of paper fly past him and spin around to grab it during a street crossing. He's also totally misunderstood my commands and when I said right he'd rather consider left. After first being quite frustrated I then really payed attention to what might be going on and for me at least in my opinion I just don't think he took me seriously. He's a rather strong willed dog and was 20 months old when I got him. He also does have an interesting clearance problem. For some reason he doesn't always see things at arm level and will brush me agains them. i'll correct for it and we're good for a few days but then he gets distracted and it happens again. So, what have I done about this? I've kept the silly beast and worked through these issues. No, it's not easy at all but as he gets older things get better because he and I have finally developed some common language which we both understand: a mix of speech and signals and rather than always the harsh leash correction just stopping and having him do the work again. Sometimes just stopping after bumping something is enough to say to the dog, you goofed. So, That's my story and may be very different than yours. Oh. I do have some scrounging and try to direct his nose when I am sitting at a place to eat. So, all this to say is if you really love the beast and think there's at least half a chance give it a good try. If however you feel this just doesn't work, than consider a switch. One more story. I had a golden retriever who I loved but he was not a good match. he didnt' like the speed I walked, he wasn't comfortable in construction and cities and after 3 3 years of working with him retired him recognizing that this was not a healthy thing to do for me or the pup. We became much better friends after that and he enjoyed his new life. Good luck and perhaps with this fellow sticking with a daily regiment of obedience drills might at least show him that you are boss. its the one time where you know exactly how he should behave and can correct with confidence when he doesn't.

## Post 17 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Tuesday, 22-Jul-2014 21:30:09

Thank you Joann and Willie for your input. Willie yes, he sounds quite a bit like your first story. He is 2.5 years old currently. I'm trying very hard to remain as impartial as I can about my feelings until the trainer gets here next week. Hopefully I can remain objective enough to really think about what would ultimately be the btest course of action for us.

## Post 18 by WillieTheWoof (I'll have the last word, thank you!) on Wednesday, 23-Jul-2014 9:07:12

Wow, same age too which tells me it's got to get better. Hang in there and looking forward to hearing how things go.

## Post 19 by CrazyMusician (If I don't post to your topic, it's cuz I don't give a rip about it!) on Wednesday, 23-Jul-2014 13:15:15

Willie,
Thanks for this post. While I am not having such severe problems as Meow is, my girl is quite distractible who doesn't seem to respond to leash corrections. I've since decided to scrap the correction collar, which has resulted in some new unanticipated problems.
However, I see improvements all the time, which lets me keep going. It's those "valley" times that are so hard!
Kate

## Post 20 by WillieTheWoof (I'll have the last word, thank you!) on Monday, 28-Jul-2014 11:40:03

Kate, one of the things I've learned especially with this one is to try to figure out what type of correction means the most to your dog. Remembering that corrections are not meant to hurt the dog just to get his or her attention off of the distratction and back to you. One thing I've never used and am now using with him is a sharp harness tug accompanied by a harsh word. Cody is from Seeing eye and you could imagine the word they use. Phui which if said properly has a rather harsh threatening sound. This combination does work for him in some situations and doesn't look as horrible as a leash correction. I've never done that with any other dog. They'are all different and if you can find her language you'll be a step closer to working it all out.

## Post 21 by season (the invisible soul) on Tuesday, 29-Jul-2014 0:43:57

I agree, not all correction works best for each dog. Some dog are naturally sensative, a quick verble correction does the job nicely. Some need a quick jerk on the lead, and some need harder correction. Its really depends on what sort of dog you have, as to what sort of correction you use.

## Post 22 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Thursday, 31-Jul-2014 17:06:46

Met with the trainer today for the first time. It may be as simple as keeping the treat pouch visible and reworking my brain to know what to do when as far as praise/treat/correction.
We had the best walk we've had in months, but on the other hand it makes me nervous to know if these problems will rematerialize once she leaves....ack extra confused now because I don't know what to do x.x
Anywya thought I'd update :D

## Post 23 by season (the invisible soul) on Thursday, 31-Jul-2014 21:35:24

Well, at least you got some tools to work with, when your trainer is not around.
It is interesting that your trainer suggest to have treat pouge visible. In most
case, the treat pouch should remain rather invisible, so that is not distract the
dog with food, or luring the dog to work for food. However, if it works, then is all
good.
Yes, the praise and treat timing is very important. If you missed the timing, is
not the end of the world, but it is not preferable.
Keep us updated Nat, and i hope it will works well with you and the dog. And,
don't worry, i think, what you going through is kind of normal with a new dog,
and different expectation for the dog.

## Post 24 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Friday, 01-Aug-2014 4:56:23

thanks so much Joann. I know you know that I ended up giving him back, but I've super appreciated your support and advice.

## Post 25 by CrazyMusician (If I don't post to your topic, it's cuz I don't give a rip about it!) on Friday, 01-Aug-2014 12:00:41

Thanks for the encouragement, WTW and Joanne. I have found that redirecting her attention really does help!
Nat, did I read that you sent your boy back? If so, I am so so so so so sorry!
Kate

## Post 26 by LeoGuardian (You mean there is something outside of this room with my computer in it?) on Friday, 01-Aug-2014 12:12:04

You all have my sympathies. People are so damn knee-jerk quick to judge, especially over the Internet. Nice to see people have been generally helpful on this topic. I can't pretend to understand.

## Post 27 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Friday, 01-Aug-2014 17:31:03

Agreed Leo, I was so worried I would get comments like I didn't try hard enough or I'm horrible for giving up, but everyone has really helped make this super tough decision just a little bit earier and given great advice and support over all.

## Post 28 by Shadow_Cat (I've now got the silver prolific poster award! wahoo!) on Saturday, 02-Aug-2014 21:08:37

Hi, all. Sorry I came so late to this topic, though I'm not sure what I could have contributed even if I had seen it earlier. Meow, I know making that decision had to have been very very difficult, but I really respect you for being strong enough to do what was best for both you and the dog. Sometimes I've seen handlers hang on to a dog that's not working simply because they've attached to the dog as a pet, even though it wasn't working out as a guide. So props to you for doing what you needed to. It did not work out when I had a dog, either, but that was entirely on me, not him. He was well-trained and well-behaved. I had just taken on way too many things at one time, was going through way too many life changes when I got him. It was poor timing. That, and I figured out I am more comfortable with my cane. I sometimes think about getting another dog, but in the end, dont' think I will.

## Post 29 by season (the invisible soul) on Monday, 04-Aug-2014 1:27:27

Well Nat, we already talk about it on the quicknotes world. But as a friend, i support your decision. It is hard, working with a dog that is really, not on the job, specially when you have a great first dog to compare with.
And again, i have said this to you many time, but remember, it is not your fault for the team not working out. Maybe the dog need a more alpha person, maybe the dog is just, what i would consider a borderline dog. It is quite common, for the dogs to go through training, pass everything, but not working as well as it should, when putting through different stress, tests, and environment.
I also agree with Alicia, using a dog guide is not everyone best interest in all sorts of different reasons and factors. I think, as long as whatever you use, either cane or dog or horse or none at all work for you, and keep you and others safe and out ofthe risks of danger, then, it works.

## Post 30 by WillieTheWoof (I'll have the last word, thank you!) on Tuesday, 05-Aug-2014 16:34:37

Liked the comment on they train up well but don't always work out. I had a golden and he really did train well and we did fine at school but as he was brought in to the reality of my life, working in a city where there was lots of construction, traffic and crouds he soon decided that this wasn't for him. I worked with him for 2 years and then we both decided it was time. He moved to a friends hous with a pond and there he lived, a happy golden retriever swimming, keeping his pond clean of rocks and ice and soaking people with a friendly greeting. WE became great friends and when he left the world it was sad but I knew he had a fantastic life.

## Post 31 by wild orca (Zone BBS Addict) on Thursday, 07-Aug-2014 22:41:20

Yes, giving up a guide is never easy. My first guide didn't work out as a team, but I've had two great dogs since then. It's better to do what's best for both you and the dog, rather then hold on to the dog just because you'll miss having him around. I hope things work out with any future dogs you may have.

## Post 32 by loves animals (This site is so "educational") on Tuesday, 02-Sep-2014 0:00:05

I agree and sorry to hear things did not work out with your dog but hope that the future one you shall get works out better for you, smiles.

## Post 33 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Thursday, 04-Sep-2014 22:49:55

thanks.

## Post 34 by loves animals (This site is so "educational") on Saturday, 11-Oct-2014 4:49:26

your most welcome, smiles.

## Post 35 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Tuesday, 20-Jan-2015 19:51:52

Update. Cutlas went out in the December GEB class. I'm happy for him and hope it's a better match.

## Post 36 by CrazyMusician (If I don't post to your topic, it's cuz I don't give a rip about it!) on Monday, 26-Jan-2015 11:44:35

Thanks so much for the update! Hopefully some extra training and a bit more time and a new handler will have made this a better match. I can't imagine what you must be feeling, Nat!

## Post 37 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Tuesday, 03-Feb-2015 19:30:22

Thanks chicky

## Post 38 by pisces_dreamer (Veteran Zoner) on Sunday, 05-Apr-2015 16:07:10

Hi Meow
Was looking through the boards when i came across this topic.
Hope you don't mind me adding my point.
I got my first guide when I was 22. She was brought into a family situation, and
unfortunately mostly due to us not being bonded and everyone thinking she was
a pet, she only was with me about 6 weeks.
Got my second guide a few years later, he was an ok worker, but obsessed with
food, was mostly lab. I had to give him back when his food distraction got two
much, and he started snapping at me when I would take food from him.
I am now working wonderfully with my 3rd guide who is amazing and so
precious to me. He is very sensitive, which means he needs a good bit of
support at times. What this also means though is that he is a very straight
forward type of guy, not very self interested and fabulous at his work. I know
now that sensitive types suit me, but it has taken me 3 guides, a lot of emotions
and tenacity to find this out. Hang in there as if you know a dog is the right
mobility aid for you, you will get the right match eventually. There is nothing
like that feeling when you walk with a dog and it's going well, and they are such
wonderful animals to be around, and the bond you develop is just not like
anything you can put into words.
I know giving up a guide and retraining is not easy, but it will hopefully work out
for you eventually.
Best of luck to you and wishing you success with a future guide.
Pisces :)

## Post 39 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Monday, 06-Apr-2015 16:30:13

Thanks for the encouragement, Pisces. I had my home interview today and it went very well, so hopefully will be trying the guide thing again this fall.

## Post 40 by AgateRain (Believe it or not, everything on me and about me is real!) on Monday, 06-Apr-2015 18:23:55

You know, it's amazing how things work themselves out in our lives.
Last summer, I went through a local training center, and after becoming more confident in street crossings while also realizing the dangers when I'm alone in the future, I came to the conclusion that getting a dog would be a great idea. I am a senior in high school, so going off to college in August was my other motive for this idea. Well, the lady from the school in San Rafael called me, and she said that since I was still going through training at the time, they would have to call me back, and do a follow up. Fast forward to February, they did in fact call me back and did a follow up, and right before they called I realized that the situation that I'm in at the moment would not allow me to have a dog in the fall or go and get one during the summer.
Right after I got them to throw my application out, I have been reading all types of articles on the pros and cons of getting a dog. None of these articles brought up all of this stuff that was mentioned on the boards. It gives me even more of a reason to hold off on the dog for three or four more years.
Natalie, Joanne, and the others who has voiced their difficulties were a huge help in allowing me to know that I have made the right decision. God knows that a Freshmen in college cannot deal with having a wrong partner.
So thanks, and I wish you the best this time around Natalie. :)

## Post 41 by CrazyMusician (If I don't post to your topic, it's cuz I don't give a rip about it!) on Tuesday, 07-Apr-2015 11:50:36

Lakeria,
There are definite pros and cons. Some college freshmen think it's the perfect time to get a dog; others think it would be too much adjusting. I chose to wait until I owned a home before applying for a guide dog; however, I know many who live successfully with their guides in dorms or apartments. Neither approach is right or wrong, but each person has to choose what is right for them.
Kudos for realizing that timing just isn't right for you right now!
Natalie, good luck! Hopefully you will work with a new bundle of awesome!b

## Post 42 by Omgrider (Veteran Zoner) on Wednesday, 22-Apr-2015 13:06:47

I have had my dog for 3 and a half years now and I can say it hasn't been the best. It's my first dog and he has some behavior issues such as getting too excited to see people in harness and crossing streets diagonally 2 times. But when the trainers come out he's perfect so they don't believe me they don't think I need a retrain course with him and they think it's all my anxiety. They won't take him back since the ownership has transferred over to me, and he's only 5, turning 6 so he is kind of young to retire. He doesn't seem very motivated to work but when the trainers come he is perfect he ignores people when they are here, he would cross the street perfectly straight, and he doesn't try to follow other people whey they are out here. Ever since I got my dog I have run in to more seople than with my cane and my confidence is going down more and more. I don't think I will ever get a guide dog ever again.

## Post 43 by CrazyMusician (If I don't post to your topic, it's cuz I don't give a rip about it!) on Wednesday, 22-Apr-2015 15:56:54

OMGrider,
This sounds like such a challenge! I have a dog with some behavior issues, but am thankful that the school takes me seriously and is willing to work with me.
i am sorry you are going through such challenges, and are so discouraged after working with your first dog!

## Post 44 by Flidais (WISEST IS SHE WHO KNOWS THAT SHE DOES NOT KNOW) on Thursday, 23-Apr-2015 18:01:07

I'm sorry you had such a bad experience. I think if these problems are long-standing, just a word of advice is bring them up as soon as they start happening so you can address them before that title transfer period. When I had my first dog, I was hesitant to bring up issues right away cause I felt that would reflect badly on me, but in the end I learned that's the best thing you can do. If the dog isn't working for you and they won't retrain, I think it's very reasonable to consider retirement. Also, please don't judge all guide experiences from a single school. Also I had a similar experience where my dog would act like an angel with trainers, but because I knew deep down our bond wasn't there and the problems were occuring too frequently I did make the decision to giveh im back and now i look forward to getting a different match and hoping it works out much better. Don't ever question your needs or the validity of your feelings. The trainers aren't you, only you are the expert on your needs and issues you are experiencing. Best of luck with such a tough situation.

## Post 45 by Omgrider (Veteran Zoner) on Friday, 15-May-2015 8:49:48

Thanks, I also don't want to get another dog since I'm not in college and it's not as easy for me to get out often. Me and him have a great bond when it comes to companionship, but it just seems he doesn't enjoy working anymore. I just wish he would show that behavior in front of the trainers but he is too smart.

## Post 46 by CrystalSapphire (Uzuri uongo ndani) on Friday, 04-Dec-2015 18:40:59

I'm late to the topic, but I got really lucky with my girl. Even my instructor told me to cherish her. She has behavior issues sometimes, but she hates the gentle leader, so sometimes I'll just say gentle leader, and she pops up like a pretty little princess and is good. lol I'm telling you try that. :d Nat I'm glad your experience didn't completely turn you off. I know it will break my heart when I have to retire my girl, but I hope it will be because she is ready to be a pet and not sick.

## Post 47 by loves animals (This site is so "educational") on Friday, 04-Dec-2015 20:43:30

awe sorry to those whom have had to give their dog back but I'm glad for those who's working relationship and bond with their new dog is working out so well, I've often thought of getting another dog because of recent events with accidents but I work in an environment with animals and spend my time with cats but there are also dogs where I am working too.
I agree that we have to do what best works for us so good luck to those whom are in training and let us know how your doing, thanks.

## Post 48 by VioletBlue (Help me, I'm stuck to my chair!) on Saturday, 05-Dec-2015 10:11:04

OmgRider, I'm disturbed that you seem to think your pup is deliberately changing his behavior when the rep from the school is around. This isn't the case, dogs don't think like that and aren't manipulative, in that way. He doesn't have your knowledge as to who the visitor is. It's pure coincidence.
I'm sorry you're struggling, but crossing diagonally twice in three years isn't so terrible! Of course you never want him to do this, but sounds like this issue is rare. Please read some books about dog training, or browse some forums for labs.
I'm going to have to do this, too. My girl hops on people, excited to meet everyone, even in harness, and won't come when called, too frequently for my comfort. I don't plan to give her back or give up on her, at this point, but I'm glad my school (GEB) doesn't consider they've washed their hands of us, after graduation! No title transfer nonsense. May be a nice idea, but not a good one, for reasons illustrated above. Where do you turn when you need assistance?

## Post 49 by Omgrider (Veteran Zoner) on Sunday, 06-Dec-2015 1:14:01

I usually turn to the school when I need assistance, he was fairly good last time they were here, he 9nly messed up once when he got excited to see the trainer, I corrected him but the trainers said I'm doing everything right, I just was feeling alone in the situation because I rarely hear about the dogs being perfect when the trainers are around.