The Definition of Insanity;

Repeatedly doing the same thing, expecting a different result.

You have to change what you're doing.

Chances are if you are encountering an obstacle on your dog training journey, you are not going to be able to "work through it" by doing more of what you are currently doing.

On one hand, I know this. With Spencer I have learned that if he doesn't understand what I am asking of him to break it down and try to "explain" it in a different way. Often removing that problem behavior from context entirely to work it out. 

On the other hand, I obviously missed a couple of steps. Trying to work through shut down in the same way. The sport of agility tends to push having a toy motivated dog. Having a toy/tug motivated dog is supposed to help them work through fearful situations because they are more aroused/excited/focused on tugging with the toy. 

Which is fine. 

Until they shut down and won't play in public. Then it becomes less of a "Don't wanna, don't hafta" moment and more of a "I CAN'T because I am too worried" Pushing play just causes Spencer to disengage entirely, and because I have pushed it play isn't always fun anymore. Such a fine line between "working through" shut down and causing more of it.

So, we'll try something else and come up with a new plan.

A reward needs to be rewarding for the dog! 

Also, Penny was sad she's been left out lately in the photo department.