Verve

I am hoping too

I started the Recallers journey last September and it has been awesome!!!! I have a standard poodle and this has taken us to a whole new level particularly working as a team. My only regret is I didn't do this years ago.

Ok I had to share as this has never in 4.5 years ever happened - we don't have a recall as everything in the world is way more exciting than me but today while playing only call once the lad ran to me to get his cookie I was so surprised and happy but should have realized we had been working on the layers for days and it paid off big time (its official I am more exciting than the pigeons in the backyard)

I'm in the early stages and only up to the game 'only call once'. I'm absolutely loving it! My boy is enjoying training and I no longer have tension headaches due to micromanaging.

I have just started Recallers and can't believe how more focused on me my boy is!!!

I have a 4.5 year standard poodle male - he was sold on a desexing contract and desexed at 4 months. We have not had any health issues at all and I don't have a problem with it if it means stopping unscrupulous BYB of designer dogs.

I totally agree with everyone else's comments. I would not participate in the socialisation exercise as it is not necessary and with dogs of different ages and different sizes there is a risk of an incident (even accidental rough play). Do not feel you have too and an Instructor should respect your decision as the puppy's owner. When our boy was 4 months old (standard poodle) our class had off leash play time - which he never did - he is highly social with other dogs (not reactive) and he is very focused on his handler in obedience. At the time we were made to feel like the worst owners but as he is now 4 years old and completely chilled wherever he goes I don't regret saying no to the instructor. Go with your instincts that's what I've learnt.

I have a 3.5 year old standard who is super smart (as the breed is) and there are times when we are out walking he will just stop and sit - I have found with him it's he just wants to soak up the atmosphere. As others have mentioned I would consult a trainer/behaviouralist who focus on positive reinforcement and go back to basics with the obedience training - as I have also discovered when a friend walks him he will try to renegotiate terms because she lacks confidence. Poodles are very in tune with the emotions coming through the lead!!

Sadly many people ask what is he? and my reply is a Silver standard poodle, response "are you sure?" majority of people think he is a groodle or labradoodle or poodle X and then assume i'm disappointed because he's only a poodle!!!

JessWE - I would try the German Shepherd Dog Owners! thread which can be found in General Discussions - Breed sub forum. Lots of breeders in there who may be able to help you.

I don't think your being paranoid - I have a standard poodle and clipped him at 7 am to avoid the heat. Is the grooming salon air conditioned?