Monty has walked the trails in Mill Creek Ravine in Edmonton hundreds of times, he’s crossed the bridges over and over. This is the first time he’s ever showed any nervousness. We have had a fair amount of rain in the last couple of days, and it’s good – but look at his ears. The creeks are running higher and faster, a noise that he’s really not used to. Combine that with the open slats of the bridge deck…
Owners should be able to read their dogs – many are very expressive. Monty’s ears tell me alot about how he is feeling, ears are forward but folded back – he’s nervous but still moving forward.
Notice I don’t react, he’s got to make the choice to overcome these little fears, do it on his own. I’m not going to encourage or discourage, no “good boy”, I’m just relaxed. When he needs me to be strong, I have to be.