Training Cilla
- January 2025

Repawter: Elaine
Cilla is a 5 month old rescue pup, she's anxious in an urban environment so as a family we're learning from a professional trainer. Tips are tailored for Cilla, and the family, but may be of help or worth a try. Obviously they are the opinion of the professional and not me! Elaine 

1. I talk too much when walking, i.e. too much 'brave Cilla', 'it's only a paper bag Cilla', 'oh look Cilla'. Less talking and stick to key words. 

2. Use key words specifically. A simple 'good girl' for anything, 'walk through' for passing cars, 'enough' for barking etc.

3. When rewarding for positive behaviour do it just after the event using your key word and also a few minutes later so's to reinforce further. So twice.

4. Use as many treats as Cilla needs. If she needs a treat to get out of the door, it's not bribery, it's a tool (this one pleases Cilla greatly)

5. By far the most effective and the most counterintuitive... lengthen her lead whenever safe. I was holding her too short to keep her 'controlled' on the pavement but was making things worse. By giving her 30cm more of a standard training lead she has room to move. She has freedom to go backwards and dart about if scared and already, as a result, she does it less. Only when enough room is available of course, be safe! And heel work will come later...

Photo: Cilla and Dorothy at school