I met with a new trainer for Birdie and Saturday.
One of the things that she said is that with reactive dogs, lowering the protein content in their diets will help to control the undesired behavior.
The theory being that protein in dog food is like sugar to a child.
Now after doing some reading - I am trying to equate my concern about how Birdie won't ignore ALL dogs, but will respond to some of them to being reactive.
I did bring Birdie with me. When we came in the door - there were three covered crates with barking dogs in them to the right of the door. Birdie ignored the dogs - even when the barking escalated.
At one point, she brought out her GSD Bitch to see how Birdie would react. Birdie was interested, ignored me and went to the end of the leash. The two dogs got into a staring contest and she said "Your bitch won". Then Birdie started looking for a toy and play bowing.
She also mentioned a method called "Click to Calm" that I need to research. But I am not a fan of clicker training. I have enough issues managing my balance, putting something else in my hands isn't a good idea - I'll really look like a stumbling drunk then!
Thoughts, opinions, experiences?
Links I read through:
http://www.nwk9.com/article_reactive_dog.htm
http://www.greatcompanions.info/reactive_dogs.html
http://www.canineuniversity.com/article ... ve_12.html