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Location: West Sussex, UK
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 72
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Originally Posted by
Lottie
Oh of course - there have been times when I've tensed up - it's something that's subconscious and a bloody nightmare to stop.
I'm worst when I'm with certain people as I feel
very inadequate and insecure - these are the people that tell me it's pack theory related and they sound so confident in what they're saying that I loose all of mine and Takara knows it.
It's also the reason she plays up at the vets - I can handle her anywhere else but if I go to see an animal health care professional, I
daren't do what I normally do and let them get on with it, Takara
knows I'm incredibly uncomfortable and it makes her on edge too.
However, there have been plenty of times when I have actually forgotten about her issues (she hasn't always had them) with larger dogs and been walking along like a dozy mare thinking 'oh she'll just go and play' and she's still reacted in the same way. I couldn't possibly have been tense then.
My dog's problem is
my confidence - I'm well aware of that.
This is why I need to build my confidence in general with
people. I know what I'm doing with dogs, they don't frighten me or make me feel uncomfortable. People do.
I know its easier said than done but you need to remind yourself when you are scared of doing what you normally do with Takara that she is YOUR dog and not the vets or the dominance enthusiasts dog. Yours!
And if you dont like the way they treat her or want them to do something specific then you tell them that. Or if you feel that you need to do something then just do it. They might think your dosey or odd for it but explain afterwards why and if they still think you are then walk away from them. Whats the worst they can do? I
know you think Takara feeling comfortable and confident with you is your priority over anything so make sure you have that set in your mind before going anywehere... Though I'm sure you do already