[Stella]

Just wanted to say that I went to a trainer and they used the same “bonker” and it definitely helped me and my GSD, with reactivity towards my son, the cat and other dogs (still working through other dogs)!

[Cameron]

I wanted to update my response on the ‘bonker’ and the trainers that used it.

I think it helped break the cycle where he reacted without thinking or my ability to redirect or stop it. Past that, I think it can actually re-cause the behaviour. The bonking startles the dog, giving us a chance to interject our wishes. It also scares them, which I fear could lead to more fear-based behaviour (which in my case is what the reactivity is).

After the second class with the bonker, the trainers were telling me to bonk HARD for even the most minor infraction. I see the reasoning, but I found it faulty in my cases. An example, Athos (my Mal), gave a half bark that dwindled and he looked at me before it was over. To me, he’d realized this was an undesired behaviour and corrected himself. I wanted to praise this and they wanted to bonk it. I couldn’t reconcile and sought further advice where I found a fantastic trainer (who has 3 other partners and all have Mals from my breeder!) He’s agreed that Athos does not require severe corrections. A simple NO at regular volume and a minor leash pop and he gets the message. More grandiose corrections will shut him down.

We are working in a very positive method – but not positive only. In the 2 sessions I’ve done, I have given 3 small leash corrections and tons of treats. The effects are simply undeniable in just 2 sessions. In the last week the only dogs Athos reacts to are ones that lunge or bark at him and I’m able to redirect him to me. We’ve passed dogs that were a big problem before.

The problem isn’t solved, but we’re on the right track. I can see him becoming less frightened or startled each day.

The other big change I made is not feeding from the bowl. All his food comes from my hand (something Robert recommended in his puppy videos but I’d stopped). This has made an huge impact in how fast I’m progressing this week.

[Stella]

I was told (by my trainer) only to use the bonker in extreme circumstances/behaviours and shouldn’t have to repeat too many times. So I agree you don’t want to be using it for minor correction and not something you want to use frequently, for me it was sort of a one time thing (for a few different situations). Hope it works out with the new trainer. You have to do what works and feels right.