K-9 Unit In-Training

2 Weeks Down!

March 12, 2010

We just finished up week 2 of 10.  At the end of week 1 I began teaching Don to heel, he didn’t catch on really at all so I really worked him this week on it.  I wouldn’t say we have perfected it but we have made a lot of progress.  I do give alot of credit to the Decatur K9 handler who helped us.  This handler has had a lot of experience with police dogs and specializes in obedience.  During obedience and agility he watched Don and me work together, thus picking up on our weaknesses and helped us strengthen them. 

After lunch on Tuesday, another handler had his police dog out of the car doing some work.  He had rewarded his dog with a tennis ball, like most of us do.  However, when he went to get the ball back the dog didn’t want to let go.  The handler had to use a special maneuver to force the dog to drop the ball.  For every action there’s a reaction.  The dog dropped the ball and when the handler went to put him down the dog whipped his head around and bit his arm.  This is actually the second time this handler has been bit by his dog.  This is not unusual in dog training.  This dog is a little more aggressive than others and doesnt really like people, he’s unsocial.  This isnt a result of bad training, its just the dog’s personality.  On Wednesday, the Decatur handler was out working with us and saw this paticular handler having problems.  The Decatur handler got on his knees at this paticular dogs level and in a very calm manner took the ball out of his mouth while giving the verbal command.  I believe they had a heart to heart.’  I promise he wasn’t drunk and isn’t crazy.  He’s just a handler with alot of experience and knows how to work with all levels of police dogs.  Sunshine or rain, this handler, like many others, volunteer their time and energy to come help us during our training.  Thank you to all these trainers!!!

Don’s enthusiasm and energy is at 150% every day.  Every morning when I get him out of the kennel I know he’s going to give 200%.  I’ve had several previous handlers and instructors tell me he’ll be a great dope dog.  What does this mean?  Roll through Rochelle with dope in your car, get stopped, and Don will find it.  I know its only the end of week 2, but when you work hour after hour with someone, Don for this instance, you know how efficient and determined they are. 

Stayed tuned for more posts next week…we’re taking our training to another level and incorporating new and more difficult exercises in week 3.

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