The handlers in question have been very successful in the competition ring. Some had achieved numerous obedience and agility titles over the years but all had some difficulty with manners around the house. They had become permissive around the house. Now of course these ladies wouldn't make a connection because there little furry buddies, in their minds, were just doing what was expected of a dog outside of the competition ring. I see things differently. It always surprises me to find anyone who could achieve such an amazing number of obedience or herding titles on their dogs would expect so little in the way of manners from their canine companions outside in the REAL world where it counts the most!
My observations led me to believe that leadership, as well as submission, is not something that is easily turned on and off when entering and leaving the obedience ring. If a handler is used to being permissive at home or around town then we should expect that his dog would reflect this to some degree and have more trouble keeping his focus and ignoring distractions while in the ring doing a heelng pattern. The handler who is consistent in his interactions with his dog no matter where he is will have a greater chance of success in and out of the obedience ring. I know many dog trainers that walk out of the obedience ring and POOF! Suddenly the dog forgets he is trained and charges to the end of the leash and his handler never bats an eye, allowing his dog to 'forget' his manners. Amazing! It's not a dog problem but a handler issue. Certainly we all would like to come home from work and just relax with our canine friends and not worry about leadership but the reality is that your dog will be more consistent in his behavior as well as less confused if we were consistent with our leadership! Chances are we would happier, both dog and human, and safer too.
Happy Dog Training!!!
Mary Kowalczyk
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