I remember one guy we had at club who really had a deadpan expression.

Will told him to use his happy voice and to be more enthusiastic.

He replied "this is my happy voice"

As he came to club more, we found that it was.......

I would love to tell you all that I do to motivate my dog but 95% of it I leaned from Micheal Ellis's Building drive and Motivation video series, (especially the last 2 videos- How to Play Tug with your Dog and Advanced Concepts in Motivation-, they are fantastic!), so it seems unfair not to give him credit. Many of the suggestions made here and so much more are incorporated into his training program. His discussions are thoughtful and easy to understand, and despite listening and watching many times I always learn something new.

I have had several dogs and trained them in basic household obedience, but this is my first attempt at competion obedience and agility. I myself find obedience boring, and these videos have made it so much more fun. I know I sound like a commercial but I really can't say enough how much I like Micheal's stuff! If only I had the time to go to California to train with him!

Speaking of trainning, I see my GSD puppy (8 months) has just chewed my daughter's toy (left out!) in part because she needs work and exersize and I have been too busy reading these great discussions. Off we go!
Just to add, people are so generous posting on this web forum, I feel so lucky to have found it!

 Quote: kelly hammill

I would love to tell you all that I do to motivate my dog but 95% of it I leaned from Micheal Ellis's Building drive and Motivation video series, (especially the last 2 videos- How to Play Tug with your Dog and Advanced Concepts in Motivation-, they are fantastic!), so it seems unfair not to give him credit. Many of the suggestions made here and so much more are incorporated into his training program. His discussions are thoughtful and easy to understand, and despite listening and watching many times I always learn something new.

I have had several dogs and trained them in basic household obedience, but this is my first attempt at competion obedience and agility. I myself find obedience boring, and these videos have made it so much more fun. I know I sound like a commercial but I really can't say enough how much I like Micheal's stuff! If only I had the time to go to California to train with him!

Ha ha! We often sounds like M.E. commercials here, Kelly. You're preachin' to the choir. Sounds like you are putting the DVDs to great use!

But yep, always good to point out to new folks that this is where Michael's DVDs come from and that they should sign up for the newsletter at the bottom of this page: http://leerburg.com/

Not only will you receive video clip links free with each newsletter, but you'll also learn first-hand about sales, specials, new stuff, and Q & A.

Anyone who might be new and reading this thread will serve themselves well by checking out the many M.E. videos (tons of free clips!) here:
http://leerburg.com/flix/searchResults.php?searchfor=ellis