My dog is 9 years old and has been raised as a companion dog. He knows basic obedience commands. I'm working to improve my training skills and am adding precision to these commands to resemble Competitive Obedience but I am having trouble with bringing him in close to me.

A little background; I like my space. I don't like people or pets crowding me. I have never trained my dog not to invade my space; but I must have given off huge hints because he seems confused with heeling and recall. He's doing well on the heel looking up at me and sitting automatically when I stop. A good example of where he is when I heel is to look at Cindy's signature picture. Instead of where Rush is positioned Thor is located where her left hand is extended to. And when I try to bring him in closer he lags.

On the recall he sits in front of me when he is about 10 inches away (which by the way is my comfort zone for normal daily living....very perceptive boy; not so much the husband :grin When I try to bring him in closer on the recall, he backs up and turns his head sideways avoiding eye contact and trying to stay out of my space.

When I work on building drive he has no problem with crossing into my space to get his prey item. Any suggestions how to generalize that to his recall and heel?

BTW he is fine with coming to me for petting and affection he just seems confused about MOVING in my space.

I have similar problem. My boy is a long drink of water. What SEEMS like a nice front is about a foot off when he sits.

To help I have backed up as he gets close and when I go to reward with a treat I bring the treat in close to me and draw it up and close.

Also my trainer noticed when I THINK I am encourageing the recall I am leaning at the waist ever so slightly. Not an inviting posture for the dog.

If all else fails it is only a half point deductoon. Despite my work we were penalized at our last show. :-)

Ps. I also have personal space issues so maybe that is somethi g for me to consider.

Good luck.

 Quote: Michelle Berdusco

I have similar problem. My boy is a long drink of water. What SEEMS like a nice front is about a foot off when he sits.

This could be a part of the problem too. Notice Polar Bear height in my signature photo .

I tried leaning back a little when I called him and that did bring him in closer. I think the front will be easier to correct than the heel because I can't seem to come up with anything that is helping.

Any and all suggestions are appreciated.

Thanks,