NOVEMBER 2021 Client Spotlight: Asher
The dog that taught the trainer a valuable lesson.
Asher is a three-year-old Weimaraner who is goofy, lovable, and fun. A few years ago, I was coaching the owners on general obedience training, focusing especially on loose leash walking. The two owners were getting married in the fall and were looking for some guidance on how to include him. We worked together for 5 weeks or so on the basics but in the end, it was Asher that taught me a valuable lesson.
During training, we had to meet at multiple parks around the triad due to the owner’s home being outside of driving distance. We also had to meet on the weekends due to the couple’s work schedule. During training, the parks we tried were busy and therefore difficult for Asher to focus. We tried everything from turkey hot dog, bacon, steak, boiled chicken, etc to try and condition him however, he continued to pull. We were all becoming discouraged. Then, something amazing happened that I will never forget.
One day, we met on a very hot and humid afternoon. I remember having to change locations in the park because, again, it was too distracting. We eventually made it over to a woodsy area, filled with sticks, leaves, and acorns. I pointed out to the owners that Asher kept trying to chew on a stick, which was frustrating because he was supposed to be focused on walking! We were about to leave the area when I had an epiphany. I instructed the owner,
“Try walking with a stick.”
Asher in his favorite place, the woods.
He grabbed the closest one and started walking. Guess where Asher was? Right beside him! We were ecstatic!
Asher taught me that just because food is sensitive to dogs, does not mean it’s their main motivation. A dog’s behavior is constantly changing and in order to get your dog to listen, you have to be willing to change your direction. In other words, look at what your dog is excited by at the moment, and use it to make your dog work! The owners had a wonderful time at their wedding and enjoyed having him there. Asher is now happily living his best life with his mom and dad hiking, swimming, and chewing on as many sticks as he can find.
Client Testimonial: “Hey! I just wanted to tell you thank you! Asher did soooooo good at the wedding!! He was absolutely perfect.” -Alana D