You need a different trainer. I've used a choke chain on Tucker, but if he had reacted as yours did, it would have ended right there. A GR who wants to please can be taught to walk on a leash without a tool that scares him. Good luck!

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Kathleen, mom to one human, age 17, three canines, and a bunch of fish.

First get a new trainer. Do not use a choke chain. Do not let anyone handle your dog. I am a trainer and if I was going to handle someone it would be with a familiar dog or one who couldn't care who handles them. I would never take a insecure dog. Either way I would never handle a dog the way this trainer did. A good trainer would have recognized right away this method wasn't right for your dog. If you do get help and you see something you don't like step in and say that is enough and take your dog back. Choke chains choke. If your dog pulls or you pull the chain zips to a full choke. The only time I use it is in the obedience show ring and they already know how to walk nice. Collar is insignificant. If he is whining and reacting that way it is definitely being handled incorrectly on it. The only part of this situation that will make him aggressive is being hurt while he is being handled like that. I have to say my favorite is the prong collar. They are very kind collars. They look scary but they do not poke the dog they give them what I call a hug. The nice thing is no matter how hard you pull they can only close to a safe size unlike the choker that can keep tightening into a full choke. When fitted correctly dogs do not usually pull and it keeps them in great control without hurting them or you. The most important thing with the collars is that they need to be fitted correctly in the right position. If your dog is a puller a martingale will also choke. Harnesses teach dogs to pull (sled dog syndrome) gentle leaders work on some but don't always give you full control. I know gentle leaders have been successful but personally the harnesses and gentle leaders bother me that I can't enjoy my dog without all the straps. It just looks so uncomfortable for them. I use the prongs almost all the time when walking my dogs. The exception is when we are on the beach or park when I have them on a full long line run. Then I just use their buckle that can get wet.

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www.shoregoldgoldenretrievers.com

If you let us know where you're at we can help you locate a trainer that is certified.

The UK is in many ways way ahead of North American when it comes to training so I'm surprised you found a trainer like this. Eek!

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Jacqueline

"I have just met you and I love you" - Dug (Up!)

Keep in mind we are not dealing with a small puppy here. This pup has had time to establish some undesirable behaviours (bad habits) before you got him. It is a different proposition to extinguish undesirable behaviours and replace them with desired behaviour than it is to undertake starting a young pup from scratch.

First, you must determine what it is YOU are tying to accomplish with the pup. What are your expectations for the pup? Have you communicated your expectations and goals for the pup to the trainer?

Next, review the trainers credentials and accomplishments. If they have a proven track record of accomplishment, you may want to listen to what they have to say. They may see things in the pup that you don't yet at this point in time.

If the trainer doesn't possess any credentials to speak of, you may want to seek the aid of a more experienced trainer to help you.

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"You own what you condone." ~ Mike Lardy

There are many really good trainers in the UK using positive reinforcement training Where about do you live? Choke chains/ check chains are really frowned upon by good trainers. Personally I would go back to the beginnning using a tidbit and hold it in front of his nose and say heel, off the lead in the garden to start with and give him the food as soon as he is walking by you. Have a pocket full of food when you walk him in your pocket nearest him and do the same on the lead, see if that helps Annef

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Find A New Trainer! This one is backwards!

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I do what I like and like what I do. Yorkies- Cozy (4/1/06), Roxy & Zoey (2/11/08), Lucy (4/6/09); Golden- Buddy (4/13/09- Rescued 12/11) Maine Coon cats- Mika (1998) and Tallulah (2000)

Find a new trainer!!! Now! Run!

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-Valerie

RUN away from this trainer, and trust your instinct about your boy. A young golden who is simply untrained does not need harsh corrections, he needs positive guidance. Using harsh corrections when he's never had to behave in an expected manner may damage his trust in you. I prefer methods that allow for the dog to choose to perform the correct behaviours instead of being forced into them.

I haven't got a name of a positive dog training facility in the UK, but perhaps this link can help be a springboard for you to conduct your own search.

http://positivedogtrainers.co.uk/waggamania/

I agree with Ranger on suggesting the martingale collar. I would suggest one without a chain. They offer a gentle reminder and they are almost slip proof when on a walk.

http://compare.ebay.com/like/2510797...Types&var=sbar

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I am not an expert to give you an advice, but certainly would look for a new trainer.

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9 & half short years in my life but forever in my heart http://www.goldenretrieverforum.com/...-my-buddy.html
"He took my heart and ran with it, and I hope he's running still, fast and strong, a piece of my heart bound up with his forever" - Patricia McConnell

Charlie could watch birds for hours and I could watch Charlie for hours too http://www.goldenretrieverforum.com/...n-morning.html

FIND A NEW TRAINER - DO NOT GO BACK TO THIS IDIOT - HE WILL RUIN YOUR DOG.

My apologies for the shouting, but this idiot will quickly turn your puppy into an aggressive or fearful dog if you continue to use these methods. Please find another trainer to take classes from, one that uses positive methods and will show you to how to teach your dog to understand what you want.

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