Quote: ana kozlowsky

Today I was stroking her after a session and suddenly she rolled over on her back. She has *never* done that since we got her in 10/2008, never even allowed anybody to touch her stomach. Did I put too much pressure on her by all these commands and rules?

The first time she does it in the video, it looks like you almost start to turn her over by lifting up both front legs... she just follows the motion and rolls over - but the second time she does it it's definitely of her own accord. Either way, in my completely non-expert eyes, she actually looks quite relaxed, playful, and happy to be engaging with you.

In answer to your last question, I'd say she may actually be feeling some release of pressure from all your training and bonding sessions (remember, the point of the rules and boundaries is to create structure and transfer all responsibilities of leadership to YOU, relieving the dog of the stress of feeling "in charge") - if she's never been comfortable with anyone touching her belly, or rolling over (in a submissive/vulnerable position), but she's doing it so freely now, I'd say she finally feels okay leaving things up to you and your relationship has just gone up a notch. I hope someone else gives their input, because I could be completely off base (this thread has been a little confusing), that's just my initial impression.

I really liked watching her actually, my dog, though a powder puff of tolerance with me, has NEVER willingly rolled onto his back with us. He's very dog dominant and I think it's just a position his personality will not give in to...

~Natalya

I had had one of my adult dogs (acquired when he was three) for over two years before he willingly rolled onto his back for a rub. Even then, it was a halfway roll, with his head picked up and scanning the room, he did not do it out in the yard, no matter what kind of relaxed fun we were having, and he did not have his spine actually flat on the floor. (This is unlike the belly-rub slut who flips onto his back and looks like a starfish if anyone wiggles their fingers in any belly-rub manner.)

Gradually, the other one has rolled more and more onto his actual back, although his head has not relaxed completely.

I consider this huge progress in our relationship. The first time he cautiously rolled partway over in imitation of the belly-rub slut, my eyes teared up.

This dog is a worrier, and for him to relax this much is wonderful.

 Quote: Connie Sutherland

(This is unlike the belly-rub slut who flips onto his back and looks like a starfish if anyone wiggles their fingers in any belly-rub manner.)

Everything about that sentence makes me laugh out loud...

~Natalya

Ana, she seems really comfortable rolling over for you. No tail tight between the legs or uncomfortable body signals.

Nice job!

Erika hates it and I don't ask her to do it. she'll do everything else I ask her

Thank you! I was so worried, it has been a hard week watching myself all the time and trying to avoid the usual mistakes, watching the dogs all the time to catch any signals of stress or aggression. Suzie does look much happier now. We are going to see the trainer on Sunday, weather permitting, will be learning 'stay'.

Confusion is really stressful for dogs Ana. When you are able to make things clear to them their confidence grows and you'll see how good your dog really is.

Well, Dennis, Suzie sure is not Erica but it's probably for the best. Imagine the mess we would be in if she were. Wish I were able to handle a dog like her.

Edited by Ana Kozlowsky (02/06/2010 02:01 PM)
Edit reason: grammar

 Quote: Dennis Jones

Erika hates it and I don't ask her to do it. she'll do everything else I ask her

Yeah, that's sounds just like Oscar. He really does trust me completely, it's just that one thing... the few times we've playfully tried, he just looks exceptionally uncomfortable and frantic to flip back over, so like you, we don't even ask. That said, he does enjoy a good roll in the grass on a hot day... when no one's looking.

~Natalya