Fetching problem

[calibra]

Hi

My dog starts training classes next week, so the class might have an idea.

When I first got my dog, it used to automatically fetch. Over the last month she has picked the item up brings it back, sits in from of you waiting. I go to grab the item and she runs back a little and sits again. She is playing "catch me if you can".

How do I break this habbit?.

She picked up another dogs mess as it looked like it contained peanuts. She didn't eat it, just held it in her mouth and expected me to chase her. I don't want that to happen again - Yuk.

If she does bring me stuff after I say fetch (not often) when I say drop she drops.

James

 

[Julie]

Tie a long drag line to her collar, and only let her "fetch" with it on. If she doesn't return the fetch, a slight snap on the drag line, if she still doesn't come then call her name and use it to make her come to you. And when she gets to you pet her, and praise. Never scold.

The dog should first be reliable to come when called, then she should listen better for retrieving.

And never chase her. And never give her a command that you can't reinforce.

Best wishes.

 

[calibra]

> Tie a long drag line to her collar, and only let her "fetch" with it on

That is a very good idea - Thanks


>The dog should first be reliable to come when called

She does come when called and also comes to the dog whistle which is not bad for a 4 month old pup.

When she has something nice to eat (like pooh in this case) she comes, but only to arms length. If I make a move, she jumps back.

Thanks

James

 

[RedyreRottweilers]

At her age, what you need to do is have several identical items to play fetch with.

As she is returning with one, show her another one to encourage her to come in to you. Moving back away from her can encourage her to come right on up to you. As soon as she gets there, offer her the other toy, but only up close to your body so she has to come in all the way close. No coming close, no new toy. Work towards being able to touch her collar as you trade the toy. Don't move towards her, move AWAY from her to encourage her to come in to you. Using a line is a good idea, use it to keep her from any moving away from you when she is coming in with her toy. Food rewards to trade work also with many puppies.

The important thing, since we now know she is a baby puppy, is to keep it light, and fun, and for you to take responsibility for the outcome of play/training. If you begin to experience a problem, sit down, and work out a way of preventing the issue from happening, and a way to encourage the dog to do what you want it to.

You have the primate brain, use it.