RECALL WHEN EXCITED

Question
Hi Renee,
We have a wonderful, gentle and generally obedient neutered Boxer Bitch who previously obeyed every command every time.  About 3 months ago (at 20 Months old) one day on the park she just refused to return to be put back on the lead.  She would stay close but not close enough to be caught.  This habit has returned on and off since.  at around this time she also developed a dislike of people walking or jogging in the park without dogs.  She chases after them growling and jumping.  At this time she won't respond to any command from us.  If she's on the lead or if people have dogs with them she isn't interested at all.  She also plays really well with other dogs.  At home in the garden or when she is on a training leash she responds to come every time. Any ideas to eradicate this behavior?

Answer
Hi Micaela. I would suggest taking her in to obedience classes. If she's had them before, then it sounds like she needs a refresher course. Maybe both of you do. :-) These behaviors are something that a trainer needs to address. I wouldn't allow her off lead anymore until you can figure out what's going on, and can trust her to come back. It's really hard to say what's going on without actually seeing her do this. I truely believe that an obedience class will help her immensly. Sometimes, a dog will develope a bad habit. And if we're not right on top of it to correct it, then they will continue, and it can be really hard to fix. Sometimes, we don't even know it is a bad habit, until it continues and you see it happen often. You'll have to get her attention, and keep it. When you are walking her I would keep her on a leash. The most important thing with dogs is to be consistant. All of the time. Honestly, I seriously suggest taking her to those classes, and keep her on a leash at all times until you have the recall down pact, and fix her problem of chasing people. Take her to the classes, and be consistant every single time she does a bad behavior. You'll see a huge difference in your girl. Good luck.