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dog behaviour expertise
Well done to you, We took our Border collie out of a home 6yrs ago and he was the very same. The first thing I noticed was that as he was a medium sized dog he was in with all the other medium sized dogs which happened to be in his case pit bulls and the like. Our dog had serious social issues with all bigger dogs that to be truthful is only something he has got out of the habit of lately and its all to do with him losing his fear of other dogs.
border collies as you no doubt know are extremely intelligent social dogs, however if they haven't been trained properly or you don't take a firm hand with them during training they'll rule the roost. We had collies when I was growing up so I'm quite used to them however I wasn't prepared for how much work has gone into re educating our dog. First thing I did was have him de balled, unfortunate but necessary as he spent all day trying to escape after bitches. Initially I used to shout commands like no, comeback etc in a loud voice when he went at another dog, until my father told me that I should talk to him calmly, allow him (on the lead) to meet other dogs and be ready congratulate and reward him in an over the top way when he doesnt attack. It was remarkable the difference, now he is never the one to instigate a fight (he will if another dog is the agressor).
I'd be happy to meet you for a walk together and let the dogs meet, or alternatively try walking with other people with dogs. Once he manages to be social with one dog he'll find it easier to trust others.
Saying that, you asked about dog training, we went but found their approach in group classes to difficult for our dog, but I found the people at alpha dog extremely nice, however not really for us. Best of luck, and send me an email address if you fancy a walk together
I used Alpha dog, which is a voulutary Dog training organisation. You make a donation and They help you with thé Dog training. They have English speaking trainers. Una, who was there when I went was wonderful. Best of luck!!
Alpha dog is closing at the end of the month
This European Pet Behaviour Specialist might be able to help you.
Her specialist field is in cats, but she might know somebody who is specialised in dogs training and dog behaviour matters.
Her name is Els Peeters. (She speaks fluent English).
Tel. +32 (0)3 663 81 10
GSM +32 (0)476 957 127
Alpha dog closing??? What a shame!