Hi all! I thought I'd share an email post that my girl Lucy received last week from her brother Lee. I had asked Lee to pass along some tips to Lucy after he had received his CGC. Although Lucy can perform her obedience work perfectly at home, she often "acts up" in class. Anyway, Lee's letter gave me a good chuckle.
Hi Lucy, it's your brother Lee here. Your person told my people that I should offer you suggestions on improving your behavior in class.
Frankly, I approve of the way you're going about it, particularly since I used the same tactic. Keep on acting up in class, though not too bad and no "active agression", then, when you perceive that the time is right, do a "180" and become the "perfect obedience dog" (or as near as our breed can come). This has the most amazing effect on the humans. They can't seem to do enough for you (when they stop bragging to everyone they know). Your picture will be forced on anyone who comes within range, along with a lengthly verbal description of how wonderful you are, and what accomplishments you have made. I know, it can get almost sickening at times, but it does seem to give them such pleasure, that I can't bear to spoil it for them.
You might want to save the "180" for some time when you really want something bad that you haven't been able to get by "normal" Briard means (e.g., a place on the humans bed or favorite furniture). Despite what you may have heard, most humans can be trained if only the right methods are applied. Doing little things to please them - even "cute" things - really is the best approach. My humans and breeder think I'm so clever because I now look to carry things into the house when I greet them outside (Mom's purse, Dad's travel mug etc.). For added effect, you can do the "Briard prance" while carrying it in; this is ALWAYS good for extra treats, and keeps my people in a good mood.
Just remember you CAN do ANYTHING because, as Hogan often says, "I am a Briard", and in our case it's even better cause we are "Eiledon Briards"!!!!!!
Good luck with your human and don't get discouraged if it takes awhile. The end result of training a person is well worth the effort.
Bye for now, Lee (Oh yeah, I forgot, it's "Eiledon's Liege, CGC, TDI")