Dog training and socialization classes?

Submitted by kateri29 t3_ztgx5o in RhodeIsland

Been fostering this 8 month old pup and thinking of adopting. He’s very sweet but came from an abusive background and is very nervous. Takes a long time to warm up to people and dogs (growls in a non aggressive way and shies away when first meeting). I’m looking to enroll him in some basic puppy training and dog/human socialization classes so he’s more comfortable and confident. Any suggestions in RI area? I live in Newport but don’t mind driving further away. Thanks!

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FoleyisGood t1_j1dirf4 wrote

Mischief Managed or Modern Dog Training are probably going to be your best options.

> Takes a long time to warm up to people and dogs (growls in a non aggressive way and shies away when first meeting

Basic puppy classes might not be the best place to start. I would think about working with a trainer at one of those facilities 1x1 first before bringing your dog to a class. But either place will make sure you are setup with the service that will benefit you the most. Mischief Managed does have classes specifically for dogs that growl/bark/lunge at other dogs.

Stay away from Solid K9 in Providence.

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kateri29 OP t1_j1djyzh wrote

Thanks! I’ll check this out. Fortunately he doesn’t bark or lunge (yet) just a soft low growl that reads more like “I’m scared, give me space” but I dont want that to escalate.

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Unique-Public-8594 t1_j1dm9qw wrote

Beautiful pooch.

Good on you for helping this pup.

I’d encourage you to choose a positive only trainer but it sounds like you get this already. Anxious dogs exposed to harsh, negative training often end up worse as a result (and dominance theory and pack mentality has been disproven). They might behave but their anxiety typically comes out in other ways or unpredictably.

Best of luck to you.

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kateri29 OP t1_j1dmpyn wrote

Thanks for your response! Yes definitely positive only training. He responds very well to being loved on and affection, once he feels safe and trusts the person. I’ve had him have a play date with a friends dog outside in a neutral space and he did great. So much potential just need the right training for this sweet boy.

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Unique-Public-8594 t1_j1du1vq wrote

He’s lucky to have you helping him gain confidence.

Is yours lab/border collie maybe? I have a lab/border collie mix, but mine is predominantly border collie and has 6 breeds in her.

I think border collie is known for being fearful.

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kateri29 OP t1_j1dxlcr wrote

I’m not sure what he is but definitely some sort of lab. I plan to get a dna test. He’s on the smaller side, about 35 pounds and don’t think he’ll get any bigger.

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Unique-Public-8594 t1_j1e0vqn wrote

The white patch on the chest, the smaller feet, narrow ankles, feet turned out, and fear all remind me of border collies.

Border collies tend to be easy to train.

The joke is that border collies may as well bring their math books to training so they don’t get bored while the class gets organized.

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kateri29 OP t1_j1e1i99 wrote

Sounds like he might be some border collie! He’s very smart and learns quickly.

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Unique-Public-8594 t1_j1e1qqc wrote

And labs… so loving. I’ve heard they are known for changing their behavior to suit your personality and needs.

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rhodeislandnurse t1_j1e3x2z wrote

Pooch pawsitive in East Providence. They offer basic training classes for dogs or puppies. They also offer biweekly puppy socials. They use positive training techniques. I highly recommend.

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Loveroffinerthings t1_j1fwprk wrote

Mischief Managed in Exeter is great. Great trainers, and they lots of one on one work when needed too.

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Rungirl1034 t1_j1g0ucy wrote

Also recommend Heidi at Pooch Pawsitive in EP

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Algaeri t1_j1dmnwu wrote

My dogs place. Ct,Ri border

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AdIll6974 t1_j1fo98n wrote

Check out outbound hounds! Sounds perfect for what you need

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[deleted] t1_j1etmdi wrote

[deleted]

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FoleyisGood t1_j1fn1ws wrote

> Eric Letendre

Eric uses outdated punishment based methods and devices such as electric shock collars and prong collars. There is a reason he says he can get fast results - because he uses behavior suppression.

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