Sigh. You're right... I lost patience So much for bond-building today Handler problem, not a dog problem. But since I can't go back in time, I just have to resolve to do better from here on in. You know, I heard someone say once that you don't always get the dog you want -- you get the dog you need. I think I need to learn a lot about being a leader...

Don't give up, she has to unlearn some behaviors and learn new ones. Remember she does not understand english and it will take time for her to figure out what you want. Be consistent, I have found letting them do something you have not allowed before "just this once" will start your dog trying to make it happen all the time.
You are doing what you can and what you have learned, do not be too hard on yourself. The videos are great, rewatch them and see where you need to tighten your belt.
Sharon

Day 27. I've put my overblown reaction of the other day behind us; it seems Lenney has, too (aren't dogs great that way!) -- we've moved on.

I do continue to notice little differences (improvements) on our walks. Actually, yesterday I was motivated by one of Connie's responses (in a different thread) to try to "match" Lenney's naturally quick pace, so off we "trotted" to the lake, instead of walking. And it was truly amazing to see how the different pace seemed to "transform" her... she was in a relaxed kind of a zone, didn't stop and sniff everywhere, just checked in with me (often!) and motored on. I think she could have gone for hours (me? that's another story!) Must be quite a sight -- me bundled in my poufy down-filled coat, scarf, woolen hat, winter boots, "jogging" with my big girl along a slushy, snowy country road. But if that's what works, that's what we'll do. At least one way (we walk back home!) What a change from the pack of nerves that she so often is on our outings (maybe she feels the same?)

Well, I may still have a long way to go before Lenney really respects me as her "pack leader"... but I'm starting to get the feeling she respects the fact that I'm trying! (or maybe that's anthropomorphizing...)

" ... to try to "match" Lenney's naturally quick pace, so off we "trotted" to the lake, instead of walking. And it was truly amazing to see how the different pace seemed to "transform" her... she was in a relaxed kind of a zone, didn't stop and sniff everywhere, just checked in with me (often!)"

In the zone! YESS!

And staying with her LEADER!