I'd like to say a huge Thankyou to all who have helped me in my quest to calm Charlie. He has been aggressive towards other unknown dogs since I got him last September.
Following the behaviourists advice unfortunately did not work and thoughts of choke chains, E-collars etc. have entered my mind.
I have been really stressed about this but knew that there would be a kind way for charlie, it was just finding the right one.
Click to Calm is a book I have been reading for a couple of weeks and implementing and we had a breakthrough with Charlie at the weekend.
He is managing to walk past dogs now without barking and throwing somersaults.
I can't explain how good this feels.
Charlie in himself seems so much happier when out walking.
Don't get me wrong I am not saying this is it and I can relax, I know it will be continous training with him but I have seen some improvement using this method and it doesn't involve inflicting pain on him.
I have booked as a spectator on The Angela Stockdale Weekend in Leeds in July and I still am looking for a trainer in my area to limit the chances of further problems.
A big big Thankyou to Lindsay who has been there listening to me stressed and wanting advice nearly every day. Her advice and knowledge has been invaluable to me.
Thankyou Lindsay.
This is only the start I realise but hopefully in a few months time I am confident we will have a calm Charlie around other dogs.

Spottydog, thankyou :)

I know sometimes the worst thing is feeling panic and stress each time another dog comes towards you, not knowing what to do or where to turn, when you have a difficult dog. Sometimes it helps to have a friendly ear to just bounce ideas off and discuss the problem with :)

As you say, it is early days and i expect there will be some setbacks, but all in all I do think Charlie's progress sounds very positive, esp. as there was that problem with the other loose dog when you were camping recently and he seems to have come through that.

You will find the weekend in Leeds very interesting, I'm glad you managed to get a spectator place for that. Angela has some wonderful stooge dogs including one Malamute bitch who is gorgeous.

<< This is only the start I realise but hopefully in a few months time I am confident we will have a calm Charlie around other dogs>>

I hope so too, lots of luck to you both :)

Lindsay
X

Lindsay - could I impose on your good nature with a behaviour question please?

That's excellent news SD, so pleased for you.
Sandra

Well done Lyndsay :)  When will others realise that sometimes putting that little bit of extra time and patience comes back many times over in the strength of your relationship with your dog.  Trust is an important thing, and not to be abused :(

PS - Thank you Spotty for coming back with this feedback, I'm sure Lyndsay appreciates it :)