A little bit of success

Been muzzle training Axl for two weeks now. Mainly because I want to try to work with his intermittent dog aggression and also because he has IBS so we need to stop him eating anything and everything on walks. Anyway this morning we attempted a walk, I was feeling really calm because I knew he couldn't attack anything and it went quite well he did fight it for about ten minutes and we had to stop every minute or so to prize his vice grip off his muzzle, he was determined to get it off but after the initial 10 mins of protest he just accepted it and we had a lovely walk he really made me proud at one point when we met some dogs, one was a dog aggressive staffy on lead and another a jack Russell cross also on lead who was barking and lunging at Axl. I stood a little bit away with him while my OH went over to chat and I made Axl sit, he was very calm, no hackles and then just laid down whereas before he would have reacted. I'm certain it's because I wasn't anxious at all so it really has given me confidence with him now!

The muzzle isn't a permanent thing the idea is to build up his trust in me to keep him safe and my confidence in him, I'm hoping eventually the muzzle can be removed baby steps! The other owner did ask what if another dog attacks him he can't defend himself. My reply to that was/is that's my job. I need to keep him safe so I will protect him.

He's getting lots of fuss now for being amazing lol

What a strange question to ask - almost the presumption that Axl will be attacked. I've never walked out with that assumption in my mind.

I'm so pleased you had a positive walk. It's a great example of how a muzzle can be used as a short/medium term aid, with the greater goal in mind.

Thanks Liz yeah its not a permanent thing just part of his training and it gives me the chance to learn how to relax on walks. I definitely noticed the difference with me being calm.

As for the comment I don't think it was a negative comment just curiosity and also something that that owner was worried about. He totally agreed with me when I said I'd defend my dog so I think he was just thinking out loud

Yay great news Debs. It really is surprising how much they can pick up on your own feelings. I discovered the lead tension bit by accident really but have also noticed that if I'm nervous when Flo gets that look then it can heighten her state, however, if I calmly go to her & distract her, all is fine.

You'll get there I'm sure and then happy stick chasing days (for Axl of course)

I think its a learning curve when learning different strategies with your dog i hope hes coping.ok

Well done to you both! Walkies is so much more enjoyable when there's no lead tension.

Awesome news you guys are all doing so well, and putting so much in to making sure he's happy and confident. X

Thanks for the support all! X

Good on you Axl, oh! and you too Deb
Pete

Glad that it is going well

Well done Axl, its surprising how we can affect their behaviour

Glad to see its working and keeping you calm which only goes to help Axl.