Howard wrote:

is anything other than a whip that can be used for this particular animal. Sometime you gotta adapt to each dogs' personality.

It needs to be something rigid, a stick will do. Come to think of it, I'll see if he reacts to my stick holding in the same circumstances. Well tried that, I held a light piece of wooden down in the same manner, there was some interest, not as intense. Then went on to a full size plastic rake, held the rake end, swung that and he watched intently, but did not circle or whine. Trouble that is too heavy and cumbersome to utilize,,,, but worth a look into. I tried something, as he circled and advanced on the wooden dowel in my right hand, I held the plastic rake in my left. As he tried to reach in and grab a bite of the dowel, I smacked him lightly in the nose with the rake. He gave a little sueak of surprise and put the brakes on. He then stayed well back as I continued on with swinging the dowel. Maybe this is it??? At least he quit. I've been carrying the whip around constantly, feeding and all. It is getting a little better. I've never had a dog do this. All my rotts have driven and none had ever exhibited this obsession. I just attributed it to poorly applied schutzhund work. Susan

Susan,
Just a thought. Do you remember the old style car antenae that had to be manually expanded or contracted? Nowadays they have the power antenae that retracts into the fender. They are lighter than a wooden dowel when extended. You might could use that instead. That way, when its not needed for training it can be made to be about a foot long and shouldnt attract the dog. Also, most dogs Ive seen dont like the feel of metal in their mouth so your dog should leave it alone after a taste. Also, they make small fishing rods that contract down as well. When fully extended they are about 4 1/2 ft long. One of those with the eyes removed may work. They are very light as well...Good Luck

Howard, thanks so much for the metal antenna idea. That may be a great help for his wanting to mouth the whip. I was laughing last night, I set the whip down by the couch and went it to do some dishes. Normally Aaron follows me. He decided to curl up next to the whip, so it wouldn't get active again!!! This mornings drive was much improved. He was not near as fixated on the whip, I was thrilled. I'll continue to bring it with me everywhere I can, and I plan to swing it energetically right before feeding time, as he tends to totally ignore it, waiting in his open crate for dinner. Thanks to everyone again for the suggestions. Susan <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />