[NAGDU] Dog distractions

[Andy B.]

Hi,

 

Alec is 2 years old in a few weeks. We have been home for 3 weeks today. It
seems that he has huge problems with certain types of distractions. First,
he will intentionally leave part of our route to visit people. For example,
last night he refused to turn down a sidewalk he is familiar with so he
could try and visit with strangers. A few minutes ago, he intentionally
passed up the apartment building door to try and visit with an apartment
staff member he has seen a few times before. Earlier today, he ran me into a
car door trying to get out of the rain. Finally, a specific route we walk
has low laying bushes during a certain block. Sometimes he is distracted
enough that it can take a few harsh two handed corrections to get his
attention, then a high collar to get him moving again. Most of the time the
high collar isn't required, but now and again it is useful. What is the best
way to get his mind off these problems? They are repeat offenses, so I doubt
corrections are teaching him anything right now. Most of this is probably
puppy. However, it could get us in a little trouble one day.