Getting nervous now

[Annette4]

We've had our pack through and I've arranged our assessment date

Two things I'm really worried about:

him being assessed with other dogs. He's fine off the lead and with smaller dogs but thanks to one too many rude lab/big bouncy dog owners who let their out of control jump on dogs on a lead

he grumbles with bigger bouncy dogs...never gone for anyone just hackles up and a little grumble.

Also he's a bit sensitive about his feet, he has a (now under control) dust mite allergy and when he was younger you couldn't touch his feet at all. You can now gently pick them up/dry them with a towel but he won't let you hold them.

I'm well aware if I'm nervous he'll pick up on it

but I really want to work with PAT so desperately want to pass this assessment.

 

[soloabe]

Before you assessment comes around be doing lots of touching of his feet and meet up with as many big dogs as you can.

Good luck.

 

[CorvusCorax]

Well hopefully the dogs there will be nice and well behaved and under control, so he will have nothing to grumble about

I don't know if they would ask to pick up his feet? Probably just a quick pat and rub down.

As you say, nerves will transmit so happy thoughts, calm down and hope it all goes well! When is it? Would you have time to work on the issues you mention?

 

[Annette4]

Don't know anyone with big dogs (besides the rude ones who walk on the park who've given him the issue in the first place)...theres a point...don't suppose any HHOer's local to me have a reasonably calm-bigger-than-a-corgi dog who would help me get him used to them?

 

[CorvusCorax]

Good plan!

As Katie, try and gently touch his feet when he is feeding, treat him in exhange for letting you touch his feet, try and get other people to be able to do the same.

 

[Annette4]

CC....Feb 6th is the date we've agreed for now, it may be the following weekend though depending on her daughters shifts so I have a little while.

The feet is an on going thing and he is LOTS better....just takes them away when he's uncomfortable and grumbles if you push him but no more attempting to get you away with bared teeth.