March 24, 2003
and Sleepy Pup. Zzz. Zzzzzz. Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
6:00 p.m.
When I came home today, I found a wonderful learning opportunity waiting for me in the park. I quickly went in to get Dusty and we headed across to street to greet the throng of approximately 20 screaming 3-year-olds who had taken over the playground.
I walked up to the fence. Dusty was cautious. At least ten, shrill little voices squealed "Ohhhhhh! A puppy!!! Look at the puppy!!!!!" I gave Dusty 5 treats and asked her to sit. She sat, and I gave her another treat as a little moppet told me about her dog 'Buttons.'
Dusty did so well (in a situation that I personally found a bit trying), that I find it hard to reconcile it with her most recent behavioural challenge.
When the Cookie Lady (my dog walker) came by to take her out (for a walk, but at least for a potty if she was feeling timid) Dusty wouldn't even come out of her crate. Not even for a treat. Not even for a liver treat.
The Cookie Lady took her out of the crate and out to potty. Dusty cried all the way up the stairs, then refused to potty. She just shook and cried and was obviously traumatised. I think the Cookie Lady was pretty traumatised too.
So what to do? I've been taking Dusty down to Bloor Street where she gets lots of attention from strangers - she accepts treats and petting and generally lets people fuss over her. She seems fine when I'm around. But apparently, she's not as confident when I'm not.
I've written an email to the clicker training group in hopes that they may have suggestions. The Cookie Lady is going to check her resources.