The Dog In Question

One of my goals for the new year is to train my dog, Clancy. I got Clancy in 2008 over the Labor Day weekend. He is part poodle, part spaniel, and part who knows what, and he is the greatest dog on the planet. But, he is not trained and can be a bit of a terror, and I know I have no one to blame for that but myself. I am a pushover, and my dog is more than happy to take advantage of that fact. If Clancy was a small pooch this might not be as much of an issue, but since he is 50 lbs and stronger than I am, we have a problem. I want a well behaved dog, so I have resolved to change my behavior, and in the process, change Clancy's too.

I'm interested in positive reinforcement and clicker training, so Clancy and I are starting there. I'm also eager to learn other techniques, as I know there are many options available in working with dogs. I'd be grateful to hear of any successes others have had.

By the way, I got Clancy from Circle Tail, an amazing rescue organization in Pleasant Plain, Ohio. They train service dogs for people with disabilities, and also provide dogs for adoption, which is how I got Clancy. Many of their dogs are housed in Ohio prisons, and are trained through their Inmate/Canine Educational Program. Clancy was, and there's no doubt he was much better trained when I got him then he is now! If you get a chance, check Circle Tail out. It's a fantastic place!