Dear Petra,

I am starting to understand that you were reacting that way to strange people and dogs when you were on a leash because you associated badness with them. I imagine I can't have improved matters at all by correcting you for barking at strange people and dogs. That just led to more bad associations. Am I right?

Anyway, I hope you are enjoying all the treats you're getting when we go on walks these days. If you keep acting calmly around other people and dogs, you will keep getting treats. I, for one, am enjoying how you seem to like me more these days (is it because you finally know what I want from you?) and how our walks are a lot less stressful. A little change in training methods goes a long way, huh?

Love,
KC