An Amazing Dog

Joey is an amazing dog.

He was adopted from a pound in Tennessee a little over two years ago.  At that time, he was a buck wild crazy dog.  He had no manners and would jump on people.  He could not walk on a leash.  He destroyed thousands of dollars worth of my stuff (couch, loveseat, pillows, clothes, coats, shoes, books, printer, remote controls, blankets, the list can go on and on).

I signed him up for an obedience training class and he was expelled, so I took him to another school and he was expelled again.  I was told he was to unruly, with aggressive tendencies, and  one instructor said he was just not that smart.  I must admit that I did think about giving up on him, however I was determined to keep trying.  To me adopting a dog is a lifelong commitment.  I promised to take care of him for the rest of his life and I was not going to break that promise.

Eventually, I was able to find an instructor that was willing to work with Joey and things started to change almost immediately   Joey  enjoyed his training classes and worked really hard.  Joey has a great personality and is very intelligent.  He is super friendly,  outgoing, and aims to please the people around him.  All these characteristics helped him to succeed once we found a competent instructor.  He did so well that I signed him for intermediate training classes.  Last year Joey earned his Canine Good Citizen Award from the American Kennel Club.

Now that I have told you about Joey’s history, I will tell you what is going on in this picture.  I am always teaching Joey new tricks and he is a fast learner.  In this picture Joey is in a down position and was told to stay.  I then took two milk bones and placed them on his paws.  I told him to “leave it” which means don’t eat the treats.  He remained in a stay and didn’t touch the treats until I gave him the release command.

Like I said, Joey is an amazing dog.