Inadvertently taught Eddy an incompatible behaviour...

Eddy was getting quite good with other dogs until he got a bit senile and deaf and had to stay on the lead. He's far worse on the lead and, due to being so unpredictable (sometimes he's fine with dogs, sometimes he's not), I don't tend to let him socialise as much as he or I would like.

Now, I know that part of his problem is me. I do tend to jump if a dog comes up from behind and goes straight to his face and poor Eddy ends up getting yanked about. I actually know that although he barks and growls, he doesn't bite other dogs but I still feel the need to keep him away for some reason!

Due to this, I've been teaching him to sit and receive a treat as other dogs walk past but it seems I've taught him a slightly different behaviour than I meant to!

If he sees a dog, he has started to target my left hand (he walks on the right)!!
Usually, I'll reward him for quiet with my spare hand (my left) so he now goes straight to that hand when he sees another dog.

Great that he's learned the behaviour and obviously isn't too worried by the other dog, not so good that he trips me up in the process!!

Aww bless him. Sounds like its worked as long as you don't both end up in knots on the floor!!!!!

You'll have to start wearing elbow and knee pads then. That way at least they'll break your fall as Eddie's helping himself the treats. LOL

Heidi

Sarah - that's the only thing I'm concerned about! Don't want to end up on my bum!

Heidi, I think elbow and knee pads may be a good idea! He's a pesky little fella now, if he's not wrapping his flexi around bins or trees, he's tripping me up!!