Originally Posted by
Shelley
You realize you rewarded the bark with a treat right? I usually teach "Speak" to I can teach "No Speak". I think you reward too quickly, she is old enough to have to earn it by giving you attention longer, or being quiet for longer.
In class, expect more of her, a leash correction, "pop" goes a long way in focusing her. Why isn't your instructor intervening with solutions? A simple "here try this, instead" is way better than just allowing her to bark, and a very bad habit. No cookies when she barks, a pop on the leash and a firm "Quiet!" and redirect is better. Do something she knows, like "puppy push ups" (Sit... Down... Sit... Down etc... My dogs know they are in trouble when they have to do push ups. But it also teaches respect. Sometimes you have to be really firm, but always be fair. And never ever angry.
I also use the gutteral deep voice "Ughn Uh" if my dogs are doing something they shouldn't, if they don't stop they have consequences, like puppy push ups, or other obedience moves, like a down stay. A well timed "Yes! Good puppy!" is way better than any treat. Catch her doing good things and reward that, like good girl when she is doing something you like, and drop a cookie at her. Teach her "Watch me" and reward eye contact and smile at her and give her a small treat each time, do it randomly through out the day, and always pleasant and upbeat, so she knows you Love It when she looks at you.
If she does whatever exercise 6 times, don't ask her for more, move on to something else she knows, then repeat the first exercise. Puppies get bored easily, and if she did it right the first 6 times, then she must think she is doing it wrong for you to repeat it 6 more times and she shuts off. ALWAYS end on a good note even if it is just a nice "watch me" and reward with love, scritches, praise and a small tidbit.
As far as her getting overwhelmed by the world "SQUIRREL!" just take her to a park and sit, no greeting other dogs, or obedience, just sit and watch the world go by and pat her occasionally. One of my show dog friends lives in a rural area, so she takes her puppies to the Walmart parking lot and sits on her tailgate with her puppies, so they get used to fire engines, cars backfiring, grocery carts, different people, noises, motorcyles, etc... etc... etc... So they have confidence in the world. Let her explore and check out an acorn or pine cone, or trash bag on the ground, so they learn all that stuff is normal life stuff.
I have to go, but if you have any questions or need clarification, let me know.