Just checking in with experienced people that I am on target with Lucy.

I have mentioned in a post her 'display' at the vets. I like her displays as they give me a sign post of what is going on with her at the time, an idea of her stressors, and how she is handling the stress.

Her focus on the target (usually my hand) and the drive to the target that results in a bite or me moving away to an acceptable distance is almost extinct. ALMOST.

My theory is the displays may escalate as she inhibits her driving in behavior and that is good and I should allow it. I also theorize that they may diminish in severity (force of snapping and distance of arc will lessen) but the displays may occur more often.

Am I correct in the idea that I do NOT correct the displays but I do correct the driving into my hand? I do, but not physically. and, to redirect her driving in, I don't touch her. That will trigger aggression, but I do feint, move, and vary the distraction so she isn't so focused.

Don't get me wrong. She is mostly a sweetie. But, we are moving into more touch and discipline and I want to make sure I am working with her correctly. My goal, next year, to be able to inspect her toes, open her mouth (oh! I could teach her 'open!) and generally get ready for another vet experience. And, hopefully, after ordering and watching the DVD, an E-collar to use.

Anyone have any thoughts?

If at all possible, I don't correct for anxiety-based displays, as I find they make the dog even more anxious and therefore are counterproductive. Rather, I focus on rewarding calm, happy behaviour and try to remain very calm and aloof during displays, so the dog can (hopefully) see they don't work and don't ruffle my feathers. Co-operating brings great reward.

Lucy is discovering this fact and is actually coming along very very well. I'd have to say all the work you are doing with her is working. I'd be surprised if she's not a "just another happy pet" one day soon.

I am not certain what you mean by "driving in." Do you mean she lunges at your hand?

 Quote: angela burrell

I am not certain what you mean by "driving in." Do you mean she lunges at your hand?

If she aims for my hand (which is her favorite target), she will not stop. She snaps and keeps coming into it, while walking or lunging, until she either connects or I (it) is an acceptable distance away. She will not stop until one of those conditions are met, so I term it driving in.