I did not get registered for the puppy class that I wanted to take Bru to. We kept playing phone tag, as I couldn't do it through email for some reason, and the class filled up. I was super bummed.

So, until the next class, Bru and I are on our own. I still want to try for his CGC in the future, and I hope I wont do anything to mess him up in the meantime. He is almost six months old now and we have sit, down, stand, and circle, (my daughter taught him circle), 100% during training sessions, and he will sit and down in almost any situation...except when the cat prances by or other big distractions. We're working on that. We're working on touch, place and heel. Touch is good most of the time. The heel command is terrible, probably my fault I'm sure. Our leash walking is great so far. He isn't pulling but doesn't stay by side either. The "crazy walk" has worked well for him. He has his schedule down. He knows when it's time to eat and goes straight to his kennel and waits. He will also go on command right away at bedtime ect.

Any advice? The problem I'm having with heel is that he doesn't stay in position after the mark long enough for me to take a step forward. In a hallway, he will immediately move back in front of me in anticipation of the next command. I say "nope" and bring him back to my side, mark and treat and then he moves away again. Is this a common problem?

I just wonder if we're on track for his age. I don't correct anything beyond, "nope" and he knows that means to try again. We do short sessions everyday and he really likes it. But he gets frustrated and ADD with heel...like he doesn't get it.

Any suggestions are welcome, or if you think I should be going at it a different way or doing too much to soon, please let me know. We're having a lot of fun, but I feel inadequate.

I have not introduced "stay" because I thought he's probably too young to get it. ?

Edited by Janet Foley (07/13/2011 09:24 AM)
Edit reason: forgot something

First of all, are you talking about formal heeling or loose leash walking, Janet?

Have you watched Michael Ellis Heeling video?

 Quote: janet dudley

The problem I'm having with heel is that he doesn't stay in position after the mark long enough for me to take a step forward. In a hallway, he will immediately move back in front of me in anticipation of the next command. I say "nope" and bring him back to my side, mark and treat and then he moves away again.

Your puppy is correct - the marker means release and he is free to move around.

When working on a new behavior don't give multiple different commands and only do reps of what you are working on.

Don't use the negative marker until the dog is ready for it (knows what he is supposed to be doing and is ready to try again after the negative marker).

If he does not know the basic position well enough you cannot expect him to maintain it while moving. He still needs to be lured to stay in the position next to you (the muscle memory exercise).

If the puppy gets frustrated you have to do a better job showing him what exactly you want him to do.

You can always add duration when the puppy can maintain the correct position.


Hope this helps.

That does help...and makes sense. I like that you said, "the puppy is correct".

You know, I research and study, and then when trying to apply it, it gets all muttled sometimes.

Thank you for pointing out my mistakes. I will do better.

I'm not really trying for a formal heel, anI'm embarrassed to say that I've only read about heeling on the site/forum.

Edited by Janet Foley (07/13/2011 10:07 AM)
Edit reason: forgot to answer ?s.

 Quote: Janet Dudley

I'm not really trying for a formal heel, anI'm embarrassed to say that I've only read about heeling on the site/forum.

Check out the video from the latest newsletter where they discuss the benefits of teaching a pet formal heeling

Thanks for the link.

I watched and it makes sense. Guess I have to buy the DVD now, huh?

Going over the dog budget again this month.

If you have to choose between Michael Ellis DVDs (Food DVD is a must have - it is the foundation of the whole system) and a pet class I'd recommend getting the DVDs first. It would be very difficult to find a class that comes anywhere near the quality of information in these DVDs.

Once you are familiar with the training system you'll get much more out of any classes you decide to attend.

Ok, so when purchasing dvd's I should start with the Food DVD linked above?

The Heeling DVD covers everything you need for heeling, including the leash pressure work and Food DVD covers the marker system, teaching basic positions and working on engagement using food, so yes, I would start with the Food DVD.

I'm planning on ordering this chapter at a time and watching on my computer this weekend. Through the week, I just don't have any time with work and dogs. I'm holding off on working on anything that he doesn't already know until then.

Thanks for all your input.

So do you think it's likely for me as a beginner to train Bru by myself with the help of the dvd's and pass a CGC with him? This would be my preference if I thought I could.

Absolutely, you can train your dog yourself to pass the AKC CGC test! It is geared to companion and pet dogs, not formally trained competitive obedience dogs. It is simply intended to show that your dog is well-mannered in public and that you have basic control over him. Precise maneuvers are not required. Here is a link to the AKC Participant's Handbook which goes into detail about the ten things you will be required to do:

http://www.akc.org/pdfs/cgc/GK9GC2.pdf

One of the tests is "Walking on a Loose Leash," and I just want to reiterate that you are not required to perform precise, competition style heeling. All they are looking for is a dog that walks near you, on a loose leash, and follows you willingly when you change direction, etc.

As Ana mentioned above, marker training is the foundation to everything you could want to do with your dog, all the way from basic household manners to competitive dog sports. I completely agree with her that the Training With Food DVD will give you what you need in terms of a foundation. The Heeling DVD is geared to competitive style heeling, and while it could definitely be fun to teach that to your dog, whether or not you are interested in competing, I don't believe you need it to pass your CGC, and if your budget is a factor, stick with the Food DVD for now.

And don't forget all the free training clips you can watch! Good luck to you and Bru.