The Roweton Family – “Darcy” Doberman Pinscher
Darcy came to our family in July, 2008. We had carefully researched not only the Doberman breed in general but in particular her European ancestry. Thus we selected a breeder and were confident about our choice. In short she came into our household as a well chosen puppy and of course we fell in love with her shortly after her arrival. Then the unimaginable happened, ha! Darcy grew, and grew and grew. Go figure.
She also became self determined, impulsive and strong. We tried two obedience regimes and dropped out after about three weeks. The techniques did not make sense to us….or to Darcy for that matter! My husband still jokes about having to carry pounds of Cheerios around so Darcy would look at us. The stand-in trainers seemed to have little interest in all but the smallest dogs and younger children.
Our wonderful puppy lost control over her behaviors through the winter. Worst of all, a Doberman really enjoys being a part of and being with their family. They truly are a “Velcro” dog. She could not have that opportunity because it typically meant her crashing into doors, windows, counters, appliances, up and down stairs with no regard for what was in her way. I came to feel that we were emotionally abusing her. She had to be outside in the cold or crated. There was no difference between how she was “maintained” and the abominable habit of chaining and animal outdoors to a doghouse with little or no human companionship.
It was then I researched training options and fortunately found Canine Academy. Lisa met with us for Darcy’s evaluation and gave a very interesting and professional presentation. She also gave a sense of hope and promise for a successful experience. I knew I would miss Darcy, but I also knew I was losing my dog. Throughout the time Darcy was in training, Lisa and the staff at Canine Academy provided pictures as promised and updates so I felt in touch. They even celebrated Darcy’s first birthday. She had dog friends she enjoyed and special activities wrapped around her training component.
Darcy came home from her six weeks of training and I was frankly astounded at the difference. She is in control of herself and enjoys being a part of the family again. Lisa and Canine Academy gave me the dog that I had dreams of the day we brought Darcy home as an eight week old puppy. Most importantly, there was no doubt that it was all about Darcy. She loves being with us and her canine brothers, taking walks and being exposed to all kinds of training reinforcement options. She truly exemplifies the old saying, “Beauty is as beauty does.”