I have a service dog that is struggling with the retrieve. How can I break it down further for the dog?

You have been wonderful with answering questions in the past, thank you. My question is this: I have a service dog that is struggling with the retrieve. The dog will take and hold but the moment the object goes to the floor the dog is baffled. He cannot seem to understand the difference from just above the floor to floor. Obviously, this has made teaching the dog to bring objects difficult. Any thoughts on ways to break it down further for the dog?

Cindy's Answer:

I see you got the Ellis retrieve video, that's what I would have suggested. I'd take the training back to the beginning for now and rework foundation. When you get to the point of lowering the item maybe try putting it on a platform first, then maybe a lower platform, then a box or brick on the floor, etc... it's not usually floor that's the problem, it's taking your hand out of the picture that changes it for the dog. It's a really common phase dogs go through when learning this. But I would start at the beginning of the Ellis retrieve material and work through it even if the preliminary steps are good. Review is always helpful!

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