I too attend obedience class with large dogs present. If fact, Remi is the smallest of the group.
I always watch what is going on and as soon as any other dogs start any kind of eye contact, etc., I move to another part of the room. Most of the time the trouble begins when a new dog enters the class and at this point is not considered part of the pack.
There was one instance when a handler was not paying attention and was not being a good handler. Her dog freed himself from her and ran over to start trouble with another dog. Although I know that picking the dog up is reinforcing fear, etc., I picked up Remi before he knew what was going on, "just in case"!
During these classes I never take anything for granted and I keep a close watch on all the dogs around Remi, especially in any off lead activities.
Good luck with your training. We find it lots of fun and we hope one day to compete in Rally Obedience. |