Your Abby sounds exactly like my Chico. He also goes crazy trying to get to other dogs or people walking by. I 've posted before about getting a trainer. We've made progress, but it has taken several months for me to really see it. What seems to work best, is have to Chico go into a "down" postition as soon as he starts to see lose it. If I have to, I'll step on the leash near his neck to keep him down. Then I reward him with treat (he loves cheese)and praise him and have him stay till I see he has calmed down. And several times during the walk, I'll have him "sit & down" and give him a treat and lots of praise. He is by no means perfect , but I really feel he will get better and better at it.
Also, we work on the "down" all the time!! Before we put his food bowl down; when the door bell rings; before I touch him when I get home; before he goes in or out the door for walks; or in or out of the car; etc. I think that's the key - that he understands that we control what he gets to do.
I really know what you're going through and I never thought he'd get any better, but he is! It will take time, but keep at it. |