Progress!

We've been taking Ioda and Helper on a regular basis to a nearby, large park.  The park is perfect for several reasons, 1. there's a dog park in it, so there are very few dogs in this area and 2. It's very easy to switch between areas where you can see quite a ways and areas with sight restrictions.  Some people do walk dogs, but we can easily control the distance without their help.  We bring peanut butter mixed with liverwurst, we call it doggy-crack (and we bring a spoon to give it to them with.)  They love it, and Helper can't bark with much peanut butter in her mouth. 


In this setting, Tim wanders off and plays with Ioda and I work Helper.  It started with just throwing as many cookies and swigs of doggy-crack at her every time another dog was visible (even if she didn't appear to notice it).  We've progressed to click treat every time she sees another dog and then turns to look at me.  If she starts to get tense, we increase the distance.  When there are too many people, dogs, or just plain activity, she will often start wining and let out a bark or two and we're done for the day.  


Today, I brag.  Zero barks.  No need for doggy-crack.  We got out the long line and even played tug and recall games.  She held some great sit-stays.  Hurray!