Melissa Thom Webboard User Reg: 12-04-2007
Posts: 2781
Loc: Upper Left hand corner, USA
Offline
Hello.
I've got a bit of a training issue I'm trying to work on. I've got a dog who is up to about CDX levels of training, works well with people and other dog distractions, but the moment I put in on any kind of grass his head goes down and he can't seem to get enough time sniffing, like he's deep in thought. It's not really an area with alot of dog traffic.
He'll heel the position right but he's still not looking at me but has his face in the lawn. The moment we step on cement, sand, or other types of hard surfaces he begins to look at me again.
His temperment is fairly soft so I'm a little hesitant about over correcting him out of his behavior. Any ideas?
Michele McAtee Webboard User Reg: 02-05-2006
Posts: 1121
Loc: Iowa City, Iowa
Offline
Perhaps higher value treats, back to basics, as you've got to be the most interesting, right? Minute he focuses on you, mark and treat. Short sessions in focus and then work up into other ob. Of course, keep your expectations in check. Grass to him is obviously a major distraction, and if I'm not mistaken, this is a great way to further train and eventually proof what he does already know...training under distractions, aint it great?
Doesn't matter if there is high dog traffic there or not, there's likely high critter traffic, worms, you name it!!!
SOunds like a good tracker though, do you do any tracking with him?
Michele McAtee Webboard User Reg: 02-05-2006
Posts: 1121
Loc: Iowa City, Iowa
Offline
Oh, and also wanted to ask, in your early training and proofing, did you train on grass frequently? I only ask because I haven't trained on grass all winter, so it should be interesting to see how my pup behaves this spring in the grass with all those interesting smells.
Maybe offering a bit of play time and "get it out of his system" before ob can be of benefit too?
steve strom Webboard User Reg: 03-17-2006
Posts: 4203
Loc:
Offline
Melissa, you say CDX level. Thats all off leash right? You may just be getting a little ahead of what he's ready for.Like Michele say's, Go back a few steps. Improve his attention on leash. Better treats, a faster pace. At some point though, you may have to correct him. He may need to know that he has to obey. I'm not sure I would let him play first . I would rather he know that he can't just play and sniff or whatever until I release him to.
Melissa Thom Webboard User Reg: 12-04-2007
Posts: 2781
Loc: Upper Left hand corner, USA
Offline
Well as I live in Washington and the weather is here less than awesome most days I don't usually do alot of outdoor training except on concrete or gravel so the dog and I don't soak up water like a pair of collective mops. This inhaling the lawn thing is a new thing for him which I've not seen him do before but have had to deal with for the last few weeks.
Maybe he is trying to tell me we need to go to tracking or I need to change up the routines to be a little more interesting but I'd prefer a direct come, and send. It's not that he's refusing the commands per say it's just slow and very distracted.
I think you're right though. I need to get out the long lines again and see if I can get a more spirited charge out of him across the grass.
When purchasing any product from Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. it is understood
that any and all products sold by Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. are sold in Dunn
County Wisconsin, USA. Any and all legal action taken against Leerburg Enterprises,
Inc. concerning the purchase or use of these products must take place in Dunn
County, Wisconsin. If customers do not agree with this policy they should not
purchase Leerburg Ent. Inc. products.
Dog Training is never without risk of injury. Do not use any of the products
sold by Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. without consulting a local professional.
The training methods shown in the Leerburg Ent. Inc. DVD’s are meant
to be used with a local instructor or trainer. Leerburg Enterprises, Inc. cannot
be held responsible for accidents or injuries to humans and/or animals.
Copyright 2010 Leerburg® Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved. All photos and content on leerburg.com are part of a registered copyright owned by Leerburg Enterprise, Inc.
By accessing any information within Leerburg.com, you agree to abide by the
Leerburg.com Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
Bad on grass
#186426 - 03/18/2008 02:56 PM 
Top
Previous Topic
Index
Next Topic
