I am the owner of an absolutely gorgeous English Cocker Spaniel. He is now 16 months old, and has been shown in conformation since we bought him in October of 2007. While judges tell me he is beautiful, he does not win! He appears to hate showing, and is happiest when his nose is on the ground and he can look for birds and/or squirrels. At a show, his nose will be glued to the ground and he ignores any attempt to communicate with him.I have clicker trained some behaviors, sit, give paw, spin around and "dead dog". He will stack nicely and stand while the judge examines him, however he gaits like I've just asked him to eat poison (tail down, head sagging toward the ground and not at all happy! I need help! We have tried all types of food baits, a quail wing and scent, and still no success. One judge suggested that he lacks confidence in himself, is this possible, and if so how can I help him gain that confidence.
Chuck and Vinnie
