So he is getting closer to the 2,5 years revolt. When using these kind of expressions it is, and has always been very subtle when it comes to Manuel.

Friday, 29th of August 2008 

As many as you know, Manuel has not got a tough mentality. To be honest it is maybe sligthly too much towards the "soft side". On the other hand, he has never handled that in an agressive manner and still isn't.

Now he is heading towards 2,5 years when most dogs are revolting. As usual that is very subtle when it comes to Manuel. He is a bit insecure in certain situations, and that we are working on constantly. Not nurishing his insecureness, nor adding more pressure. We want him to be safe and stable with us which he is in most situations...but we want it to be 100%. It is funny how alike adolescence humans they are. Trying to be masculine, not really sure what that means... overdoing it sometimes, then just minutes later being "mummies little baby".

The last weeks when he has felt pressure, he has let out a small growl, even though looking to the side (please let me be).

Of course he must have the freedom to tell you when something is too much, and of course we have the responsibility to "read those signs" and respect him as an individual and appreciate him communicating instead of acting - when justified.

Yes, I can fully understand that, but eight out of ten kinds of situations, I will not accept that kind of behaviour.  But the understanding of "the why" makes it clear to me how we will handle it and teach him when that kind of behaviour is unnecessary. A high % of dogs behaviours are really up to us humans...often we are very unclear, in our communcation with dogs. They are longing for a good teacher...but we often fail by showing weaknesses like aggressiveness. I believe many people do not understand their dogs, and what they are communicating - some don't even try...

I made a call to Lotte who is very experienced when it comes to Akitas, and also knows Manuel as an individual, and she confirmed my thoughts, which feels great.

Manuel is a very "wise young man" and can fully understand our "discussions". That is, we are very, very clear but not tough. Every act has a concequence, a clear, non-confusing consequence. I believe that belligerence only nourishes it'selves. (And that strongly also for humans).

So for you who had read my thoughts before, you know we will continue as before...i.e. make sure we put the amount of pressure on him that we know he can handle, but that will make him grow as an individual = To succeed. Easy in writing, but more difficult in practice.

/Charlotte