Distraction Class for the Spice Boys

[shodanusmc]

The boys have been going to distraction class for 2 weeks now, 2 times a week. Both are doing great, but tonight Marge could not go, so I just bought Basil and left Caper home. WHat a difference when they are seperate and not together. Together they play off one another and act like clowns. Alone, they are baby genius's, and really focus and listen. Tonight there were 10 different dogs, and while he was not the best, he was in the top 3. He really knows his commands now, and comes 9 out of 10 times. When Caper is there, it is more like 5 out of 10 times. They keep me very busy. They each weigh 5.6 pounds now.

[Rhetts_mama]

What are distraction classes?

I know what you mean about having 2 dogs together in class, though. When I was taking Rhett to obedience classes, my mom brought Oliver, too. We had to sit on opposite sides of the class in order to get anything done.

[shodanusmc]

Where the dogs are constantly distracted by noises, people, dogs, toys and treats. The purpose is to keep them focused and to listen and obey your command. Theyu may be placed in a sit, and a ball is rolled by...they have to reamin in the sit or they are corrected. Initially, I was getting more exercise than the pups. When they go together, we keep them on opposite sites of the room. We work at it indoors and then go out. Great exposure and constand positive reinforcement.

[mama2yorkies]

Good job Basil and good job Dad!! This sounds like a great class. I know what you mean about two in the class together. At first, we took Ivan and Iris to all the puppy classes together. Then, the more advanced classes were early in the morning, so BF couldn't come. I first took Ivan to the class and then took Iris the next time it was offered. They do SOOOO much better when they are not in the same class, plus they get all of Momma's attention for an hour.

[shodanusmc]

They both went this morning to the class. They are picking up Off Leash commands now. On leash, the are great listeners. They still will clown around when next to one another, so we seperate them in class.

[BabyGirl Rosie]

The Spice Boys are trying to entertain the rest of the class! I could see where keeping them separate would work better! Do you take pictures when you are there?

[MI Yorkielover]

Congratulations Steve . Sophie's easily distracted and I know it's the biggest challenge when training. Sophie won the student with the most "enthusiasm" award . You have every right to be proud of your boys . Will you take them one at a time for awhile now?

[shodanusmc]

They will go together as long as both of us can go. Otherwise, I will bring Basil as Caper has taken to it faster.

[Perrella]

Congrats! I sounds like the boys are doing great! How wonderful you are able to provide this indepth training for them both. I'm sure it will be wonderful once all is completed to have such well trained fellas.
I believe you said, this class is twice a week for a full year, is there anything after that is completed?

[shodanusmc]

They went together on Saturday morning, and again, all they wanted to do was look at and play with each other. A lot of work to do, but they are smart little guys.

[MauiGirl]

I'm glad to hear they are doing well, but have to say the thought of them clowning around makes me giggle. Love it. Hope they always have that fun spirit in them.