Quote:
Originally Posted by Izzy Princess 
I had her first go into her sit mode and click and treat. Then I took a treat in my hand and then had her follow that to where my hand was hitting the floor but the treat was hidden under my fiingers. That way she almost had to hit the floor to get the treat once I clickered - and I used my pointer finger to actually point down and touch the floor while saying the lay down command. It took a while but now all I have to do now is point my finger down to the floor and she goes into her lay down. |
This is the method I used for Corabel but I had a really hard time with it. I was amazed at how she could bend herself around to get her nose on the floor without actually leaving the 'Sit' position!! Finally, she started doing it but then would only do it if I used the lure and put my hand on the ground -- never if I asked or signed the Down. This went on for over a month! Last Saturday, we had a break-thru. We were in our last class of Beginner's. I asked her to do a Down -- nothing. The Instructor started talking and I stopped to listen and watch her. I glanced back --- and Corabel had gone into the 'Down' position! It's like a light went on! Now, I get the Down about 80% of the time by asking or signing!
So, the biggest thing is just have patience -- she will get it!