May 19, 2011
I have have a 9-month-old GS who has already started on Schutzhund work. She’s a terror at the training field but can only stay focused for a few minutes at home. Any suggestions?
Full Question:
Mr. Frawley,I'm trying deciding which of your videos to buy first.
I have recently purchased a nine month old GS who has already been started on schutzhund work. She's a terror at the training field but, once home only seems to stay focused for a few minutes.
If I take three of 'my toys' to the park, she is only willing to chase after the one she wants, as opposed to the one I throw.
And finally, I am afraid to take her off the rope or leash as she is easily distracted, and will run off regardless of my having food or toys.
I'm sure any number of your videos would assist me but, for know I can afford only one, which would you recommend first?
Sincerely,
C. M.
Ed's Answer:
Here are some comments:
1. When you have puppy – which is what you have – you let the dog tell you what it wants to play with. It’s a handler mistake to think she should play with what you want – at least at this age. You should be focused on teaching the dog to go into drive and then focus. The DVD to do this is BUILDING DRIVE AND FOCUS.
2. I would not ever take a dog off leash when is displays the behavior you explain. If you don’t have off leash control then the dog stays on leash
3. When you train you should only try and train for 1 ½ to 3 minutes at a time. That’s all that can be expected at this age without burning the dog out – nothing wrong with doing that 4 or 5 times a day though.
4. If your intent is to do schutzhund in is a mistake to play chase the ball (or toy games) This accomplishes nothing for the sport training. It teaches the dog to run away from you. There are many other games that can be plaid that build relationships. Work on your MARKER TRAINING
I would recommend BASIC DOG OBEDIENCE and REMOTE COLLAR TRAINING for the Pet Owner and PREPARING YOUR DOG FOR THE HELPER.
Start with drive and focus though. Good luck
Ed Frawley
1. When you have puppy – which is what you have – you let the dog tell you what it wants to play with. It’s a handler mistake to think she should play with what you want – at least at this age. You should be focused on teaching the dog to go into drive and then focus. The DVD to do this is BUILDING DRIVE AND FOCUS.
2. I would not ever take a dog off leash when is displays the behavior you explain. If you don’t have off leash control then the dog stays on leash
3. When you train you should only try and train for 1 ½ to 3 minutes at a time. That’s all that can be expected at this age without burning the dog out – nothing wrong with doing that 4 or 5 times a day though.
4. If your intent is to do schutzhund in is a mistake to play chase the ball (or toy games) This accomplishes nothing for the sport training. It teaches the dog to run away from you. There are many other games that can be plaid that build relationships. Work on your MARKER TRAINING
I would recommend BASIC DOG OBEDIENCE and REMOTE COLLAR TRAINING for the Pet Owner and PREPARING YOUR DOG FOR THE HELPER.
Start with drive and focus though. Good luck
Ed Frawley
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