The downs I'm getting are a sit, followed by a pause, and then a down. I get the impression he has no idea the different between sit and down and is saying "is this what you want (when sitting)?" and if there is no click, he says "it must be the other one" and lays down. How can I help him to know the difference on the verbal cue?
Also, he comes to me first then sits/downs. While that isn't always a bad thing, I would prefer he dropped where he was. Any ideas on that?
Practice position changes on a park bench or similar.
In that elevated, small setting, the dog is acutely aware of his body position in the different commands. Thus, he learns that the commnds aren't about your position, and are ALL about his position.
It also helps with the implied stay, as he cannot move too much by virtue of the small area.
You will thank yourself for teaching the dog body-awareness.
What breed/size is the dog? If he is small enough to completely and comfortably fit on a kitchen chair (chihuahua, pomeranian, etc) then it would be fine. First, cover it with a non-slip surface such as a non-skid rug or a shelf liner.
Although a raised surface is easiest, I taught my young dog to do his positions on a mat on the floor.
Any surface that provides just enough space to stand comfortably on.
On a down, the front paws should dangle off the front- this helps the dog understand that "down" means elbows and belly on the ground.
I like to teach "step up" and "step down" to get the dog on and off. (luring helps until it clicks). This command has other useful applications (weighing at the vets, for example).
But yes, until the dog is comfortable, it usually is easiest to pick them up. Once they are relaxed and comfortable on the platform, you can move to stepping up onto it, one foot at a time (jumping could lead to falling- which is counterproductive to helping the dog feel at ease.)
You don't want something unsteady, slippery, or that might move around. You don't want the dog to do something like an enthusiastic down only to slip or fall, then he will have a negative association. A phone book is not sturdy enough.
steve strom Webboard User Reg: 03-17-2006
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I don't know that I would put him on anything for OB. I'd worry that I'm trying too much at once. I had my puppy stepping on and climbing on different things to build on his confidence but I didnt do and sitting or downing him on it until later.
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