Train the brain

So, we have a couple of pooches, technically the DHH's, since I am not really a dog person myself. They are bird dogs, high energy, need a job, ect. They stay cooped up, A LOT. A lot more then any bird dog should. The younger dog is only about four, and the last year or two the lack of exercise and mental challenges has made her more then difficult to work with.

The DHH is making a concerted effort to improve this situation the last couple of months. His frustration levels were getting high with the younger dog Pearl (part of the past drivers that have caused the lack of exercise in the first place). I offered to help him, rather then 'tell' him what to do (as I am more then prone to do). Sort of a 'put my money where my mouth is' sort of situation.

I have started out working her on the treadmill, followed up with an intense clicker training situation. The treadmill is working well (done about 4 sessions now), I am gradually increasing her time, and at this point, a mile and a half at an 8 minute mile speed barely takes the edge off (serious energy stores, serious).

Today I did a 7 minute mile on the treadmill, at a 2-3% grade, and then attempted a walk around the block for the first time for me (husband has been walking her for awhile now).

All I can say is, if you ever want to work on some mental training and practice, walk an out of control super high energy very headstrong bird dog for 45 minutes. I feel like I just played a chess match, while blindfolded, and with someone yanking me out of my chair by my arm every 15 seconds. Phew.

We made progress, but the battles of wills was quite interesting. When you grasp the leash for the dog, immediately a tense energy starts to travel up the lead to your arm, overtaking your entire being if you are not careful. Its so palateble its very intersting to be able to study and analyze it when it happens.

From there, I usually have to take a few breaths and center myself. Relaxing the tension, and sending back a different signal while not allowing her energy to control the situation.

This is essentially what we did for almost an hour today. I mentally relax, take control, step forward, then Pearl flexes, focuses on something, dashes forward, and when restrained tries to manhandle the situation, I take a deep breath, relax, repeat.

I actually see this as a great personal challenge. To be able to keep my frustration out of the picture, remain calm, relaxed, and in control when I am dealing with what amounts to a tazmanian devil on the end of a short lead is very good practice. I am excited to take on this challenge actually. I may not have time to expend this level of time and energy every day, but I definitely will continue this several days a week to help my DHH out.