I know some dogs prefer the tug right, while others the ball. Have you seen a difference in drive, nerve, or just basic temperament with dogs who prefer one toy over the other? I just got to thinking about this. My nervy female prefers the tug more than the ball on a string (although she growls a lot on the tug, but I'm working on that)...while my young working pup will ignore the tug but go nuts for a thrown ball. I can't say for sure which one has the higher drive or what level of drive they have since they're both pretty 'flat' at an early age and only start developing drive around after teething...
from what I can see, there's no big difference as long as you can make drive. My dog started out the same way, (prefers tug to ball) but now goes crazy over both. She does, however, prefer gripping on to the tug. Regarding the growling (usually weak nerves issue) I suggest that you run the dog more often and bring her "into your arms" for a quick pet then more running. Gradually build the time "in your arms". Remember not to out her "especially in the beginning". Have you got the "Building Drive, Focus and Grip" dvd..?
Yeah I got it, her nerves really are VERY, very weak, and she is also a soft dog. (I hit her with the handle of the tug accidentally and her drive goes down).
However I am wondering if temperament, drives, genetics, etc. has anything to do with a dog's preference in the beginning. Would, for example, a naturally higher drive dog prefer the ball? Or a dog with the beginnings of 'fight drive' or maybe a sharper dog who doesn't want to lose the item prefer to tug instead of chasing? I know it doesn't matter in the long run if you can make drive, but like I said, I'm curious about your observations. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />
I've seen some really high drive dogs that would have nothing to do with a ball on a string. That's what I'm basing my answer on. So, I don't think that drive levels have a direct relation to the prey item of choice.
Regarding a sharper dog prefering to tug rather than chase, in my opinion, sounds logical but isn't the case. I have seen sharp dogs (and I mean really sharp crazy dogs) have high "ball" drive.
I remember this being discussed in one of Ed's videos, I think it may be the motivational retrieve. If I recall correctly, the point was that 'clear-headed' dogs tend to work better for the ball on a string, while more nervey dogs were happier with a tug. I've definately seen that the dogs who are quick to become 'hectic' when in drive will focus easier when given a fight with the tug. Is that what you find with your dogs Kristine?
Ah, yes, I was looking for that sort of explanation in the tape since I heard something similar on the board before. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> Thanks.
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Ball? Tug? Preference of Prey Items...
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