K9 Spotlight: Drew VDW & Mischa

Drew VDW & Mischa
Dog Enthusiast and Trainer

For years I had looked into giant breed dogs for home protection and companionship. I had determined that a Caucasian Ovcharka would be one of the top options for me and my wife, and when I heard that a shelter nearby had one that needed a new home, we knew that we needed to do something.

My wife and I first met Mischa at the shelter and we were astonished by how calm and confident she was for being 8 months old. She didn't bark or overly care about any of the animals in the lobby; she almost seemed stuck up. We were allowed to take her on a walk and encountered many distractions with minimal issues other than pulling. We ended up taking Mischa home with us to begin some more advanced training.

We have now had Mischa for about 10 months, and she has developed immensely. She no longer pulls on walks, even when other animals are present. We go to local sporting goods stores weekly and meet adults and children with a calm demeanor and good manners. Mischa is very aware of our home and where she is allowed to be, as well as whether or not a visitor is welcome. Mischa is developing into a great K9 with therapy dog mannerisms outside the home while maintaining great guarding instincts around my wife and I, especially at the house. We live in the country and had seen coyotes within 50 yards of the house before Mischa came home. They don't dare come within sight range now.

Their Gear: Evolution collar, Icon Air Harness, Service dog leash, Bungee leash, K9 Trainer's Belt, Herm Sprenger Pinch Collar. The bungee leash, belt, and Evolution collar/pinch collar are used constantly when we go out and train in public along with either a long lead or the service dog leash depending on the situation.

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