Well, Nila had her first defense lesson today and, according to the trainer, she scored a 10. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" /> For those who haven't share emails with me before, Nila's a 1.5 y.o. Fila Brasileiro, extremely low in prey, very high in defense (genetics). I took the advice of learned members of this board and started her defense training today. She didn't back off, bit the sack, and during her last aggitation session, bit the sleeve. The helper was very good at assuming the prey position, building her up and giving her all the confidence she needed. Practice with playing tug with her at home with the sack proved successful. I need to get a large puppy tug so I can teach her to bite solid while we play. She bit that sleeve and thought she tore the helper's arm off (he dropped it after her bite and she stared down at it, looking up at him, wondering ... what the heck did I just do?). It's kinda hard, after having learned all that I have from Ed's tapes (I just about have them all) prior to starting her training, that I ended up having to do it all backwards (i.e., starting at defense and working into prey). But, I guess not all dogs are the same.

Thanks to all of you who have encouraged me and shared your knowlege. Every little bit has helped.

hey Lizette, you are in miami? have you ever heard of metro dade k9 or rick lherisson?

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sorry about that..