There's been a few posts on here lately about trying to train dogs/training schools/behaviourists etc and I know trying to train a dog is not an easy thing to do.  In particular a dog that has to try and unlearn old habits and learn new ones.

Just in case anyone is thinking they'll never get there with their dog, yesterday after TWO YEARS of walking past the same garden with the same dog behind the fence and this dog and my dog having a major stand off at each other, Copper walked past to heel, no pulling, no barking, taking no notice.  It wasn't a one off, he did the same again today.  Almost as if he is finally listening to me. 

That is just one item on a long list of things my dog needs to improve on but I suppose what I'm trying to say here is don't give up!  It may well take years to train a dog if your skills are limited (as mine are) but it is so worth it when it finally happens :)

CG

Ah congratulations, well done for the huge improvement.  It's a great feeling when they finally do something you want hey, my two used to chase rabbits and no matter of shouting, sounding great, saying down etc etc helped :(  However just lately if they see a rabbit and go to run all I have to say is 'NO' and call them to me....amazing!  Keep up the good work all :)

Well done, CG - great feeling isn't it ? :)
After three long years my younger dog has finally got the message and can now walk nicely to heel.  He still has the occasional lapse but remembering what he was like in the beginning I can cope with this. 
As you say - if you persevere for long enough, you do get there in the end :)

Well if he carries on taking 2 years to learn each and every bit of good practice I'll be retired by then and will have lots more time to train him :D  Thanks for the encouragement - it puts all the bad days in the shade.

CG