Helena's CGC Bomb....

Helena didn't even make it past round 4. I have no idea what happened. Or if it was a combination of things. First she was nervous about our new car, we got there and she was being unruly pulling me. So I asked to borrow a nylon martingale, which she has been trained with in the past. She got SO fearful of everything, her tail was tucked between her legs and I was dragging her trying to get her up. She's been to that same obedience school including last night and she acts like this today! So they couldn't pass me of course. Then they started giving me tips, and I listened but they are all things I already practice! And she excells at them. Such as meeting friendly strangers, and dogs.. ect. Basically socialization, she gets it all the time. Maybe she picked up on my nervousness, and I was tired and a little irritable. Next time I know we'll be ready.

 

dont feel bad- it often times takes dogs a few tries to pass

 

Yeah, she just passed her beginners obedience this past monday and had graduation last night in the same building in the same ring. So I don't know, guess there was a big scarey invisible monster. haha

I'm taking it lightly, I didn't think she was ready but I gave it a try anyway. I figured the problem would be loose leash walking from her pulling and high strung, didn't expect her to be afraid though.

 

You know what I've found out really helps for this sort of thing? Make sure the dog is really well exercised before testing.

Wear her out and she'll be much better behaved and less distracted.

 

The dogs feed off of your nerves too. If you are worried some dogs will think there is something wrong with the situation. Finish your next OB class then try the CGC again. When I test dogs for the CGC and they do not pass I recommend getting into another OB class, I know you are planning on continuing so it will work out. Remember when you take the test again RELAX and you will be fine.