The key to the training, is you. I learned it firsthand, get rid of your inhibitions and do what you have to because this is for your dog AND for your benefits in the long run. As Igmuska stated, do what you'd do in real life if attacked. She gets loud and defensive and aggressive, I don't. I get quiet and look for something to react to. When training my dog, I have to put on the show and do the whole 9(as well as someone who has 0 acting skill can) so the dogs realize it isn't a joke. I also have the "curse" of being a rather large individual, and have been told I am quite intimidating. My dogs also realize that and as much as we train, they don't really believe that I need the help in defending myself. Infact, in 1 scenario, I was instructed to quickly hurry away from my dog and "attack" the decoy, while simultaneously another decoy is working another dog straight across from us. My dog was then sent to come aid me, but chose to divide and conquer and went after the other decoy, I guess she felt for whatever reason she needed to be involved with the other dogs work(she was not keying in on or reacting to the other dog). It can be a real pain in the ass and a constant uphill battle. But, don't give up if at first, or even for a while, it seems your dog doesn't get it. Find a good trainer that you click with and stick it out. The dog will come around and you'll be pleased. Also, I'd like to add, the longer you're with a particular group, the ribbing will begin and become more common place. Don't take offense to cracks at you and your dog, and don't go out there with intentions to prove yourself or the dog to the masses. Do it because you and the dog enjoy it.