Help with a stubborn dog

[Mikamom]

I have a 6 mos old Native American Indian Dog. She is the most curious, outgoing, friendly, people loving, nonshy dog I have ever owned. But she is very tenacious. We are avid dog parkers and she plays with any and all dogs without fear. I also have a 2 yr old rescued/abused timid Border Collie Maya, whom Mika rules with an iron paw. She is not aggressive, just very assertive.

My problem - she has failed puppy class twice. I started her at 4 mos, and treats worked very well. Once we moved away from treats she simply quit. Now after only 10-15 mins of training she goes stiff legged, her eyes dilate, her tail goes under and she simply refuses to obey any commands. At the trainers suggestion I tried using feeding time. This a.m. at breakfast I asked her to sit/down/stay. She sat/lay down but refused to stay. When I withheld her food until she complied she turned her back and went back inside refusing to even acknowledge my presence. This is not a dumb dog. This is an extremely bright dog who is chooising not to obey.

We've been using a gentle leader because she wouldn't stop pullingon the leash and I think part of the problem is that. She hates it with a passion. Would a front hook halter work better?

[wishbone]

Maya I think needs good socialization, especially with other dog owner's playing with their dog. Ask other people to give her treats.

[squashynose]

Ihen I withheld her food until she complied she turned her back and went back inside refusing to even acknowledge my presence. This is not a dumb dog. This is an extremely bright dog who is chooising not to obey.

She needs to work for her food, if she refuses to do what you want, and especially if she walks away... Don't give her it. If she refuses, and then you cave and feed her, she's gonna know she'll get her food whether she does it or not. She isn't gonna starve herself just so she doesn't have to listen to you.