Problem Solving: Go back! and…

I wrote this for the TEAM Player Facebook group but thought I’d throw it out here as well since it applies to all dog sports. When you’re struggling to get a behavior, try this: “Thoughts on problem-solving for TEAM: Are you “Stuck” on a...

Proofing Scent Discrimination

This blog isn’t about teaching scent discrimination.  There are plenty of ways to teach scent work that are kind and effective; pick one or blend a few and find a plan that works for you.  Here is how I taught Lyra if you want some...

Brito – more shaped retrieve and beginning proofing

I have introduced Brito to a few more retrieve concepts. I’m now (gently!) pushing him away before starting the retrieve – this encourages Brito to move in a forward direction after he puts his mouth on the bar.  If you don’t do this step, many dogs...

Motivation – Part 1

Some days there is so much information to be shared about a topic that when I start to write, I end up with a great big mess. A  jumble of ideas lead to other ideas, and to other ideas and next thing you know, I want to write a book.  And having just finished a book...

Obility – Teaching the Retrieve over High Jump (ROH)

Here’s a simple video showing how I’m working on Lyra’s retrieve over high jump. She knows how to fetch.  She knows how to jump.  She knows how to stay.  She has a reasonable clue about fetching over a jump in the outbound direction, but definitely...

Lyra – 9.5 months – Increase Speed in Retrieve

Lyra was taught to retrieve a dumbbell as a very small puppy.  At that time, the emphasis was on taking it correctly; in the center and with a quiet grip.  I did not teach a “hold” or a front, and indeed, she still has neither of these things.  Her job is...

Lyra – 9 months – Active Stay

Now that Lyra has some  nice drive to work with, I am teaching her an “active” stay. In my training there are two types of stays, and they are distinctly different. A “passive” stay is boring.  Nothing interesting is going to happen, so go...