I have always really loved dogs. I was the kid with the dog breed book marking out every kind of dog I would have when I was an adult. I have mostly rescued, but I currently have a pair of rare breed dogs closely related to German Shepherds. They are bigger and lazier but still require a lot of training and consistency.

My last rescue became reactive after an aversive board and train experience and was rehomed to me after a bite. She became a really wonderful dog, and when I was preparing for my first shepherd I learned about force-free training.

My bigger dog is 120 lbs and was very reactive since puppyhood, as is half his litter. I learned that it's not just how you raise dogs - genetics are real and not always predictable. He is miles better and happier and we are all less stressed now. Along the way I have gathered a lot of resources I might as well organize here :)

general dog training

fenzi dog sports academy | I did the nosework and agility into classes in the pandemic. It was affordable and the instructors were good. It was also fun to have a dog in a class with a friend in another state.

Helix Fairweather: Polite Walking 1 / 2 / 3 | this is old as hell but this is my favorite dog walking video series.

reactive dog resources

CARE protocol | this is my bible. It's all about using operant conditioning to get your dog to not freak out. It's simple but not easy - and it works

r/reactivedogs | mostly good advice and a place for venting & support

mail: fern(underscore) enjoyer(at)tutamail(dot)com

< Fediring >