I had a 2-hour consultation with a dog trainer today with Shiloh and it was GREAT! He already knows so much, but I haven't had a dog since I was a kid, and back then the dog just ran free all the time. Shiloh has some fears and issues, and now I know how to work with him on getting past is issues. I found out that when we are on walks, I contribute greatly to his fears because I anticipate that he'll freak out and so he usually does. I also let him walk me, but not anymore.

Being the breed or breeds he is, he needs a job, too. So we're doing obedience and learning a new trick each week. It doesn't matter what trick, it's the learning that is important. We're going to work on socializing him with lots of people and dogs with the goal of getting his Canine Good Citizen certification. Once that happens, we'll continue towards therapy doghood.

With his hip, he can't do much agility, although he loves low agility apparently (I haven't tried that with him yet). Also rally obedience is another good way to move forward with him. I also learned alot of other stuff about dog parks (didn't have those when I was a kid).

It was very much worth the money, even though funds are tight these days. I'm looking forward to having structure with him.

I do wish I knew what he is, though. The trainer thinks he's all herder, maybe Aussie/BC. But the pointing has me intrigued, although he doesn't have a soft mouth like bird dogs do (no big lips!)