Territorial aggression update

[Kim Y]

I think we found the behaviorist of our dreams. This man is wonderful! He uses everything that I've ever read (Culture Clash/Dog Listener) and is helping us greatly in re-establishing our roles as alpha and Oscar as beta pointing out things we were missing with Oscar. I *thought* we had this tackled but apparently not. I guess finding a good behaviorist with a Master's degree has something to be said for it and it helps greatly to have a neutral educated opinion.

Although we've only had one lesson and Oscar has made TREMENDOUS strides (the neighbors were out twice and both times he ran to the fence--turned right around and came back to us on his own without a sound), it's very difficult seeing him appear so "down." Our behaviorist had warned us that this may happen for a short period of time, but to personally go through it is tough tough tough! It's extremely difficult stopping ourselves from babying him right now but we know what we have to do and keep our goals in sight. Tonight, he started perking up and playing with us in the yard. It's startling to see such a huge change in his behavior with just one lesson.

Our behaviorist is remarkable. He states he will be here for us for Oscar's lifetime with no additional costs. If ever there is a problem, all we have to do is call and he will be here. He and his wife will also board Oscar in their home when we vacation and take him to their doggie daycare during the day and work with him reinforcing his training. They only provide the boarding to their clients. I still can't believe our luck finding him. It's going to be a long road, but we have more confidence now than we had two weeks ago. Oh, and one more thing, Oscar loved him.

PS-- I do not mean to give the impression that a trainer needs to have a Master's degree.