Quote:
Originally Posted by DvlshAngel985  If you have any tips on getting him to drop the ball, I'm all ears! He'll drop everything but his toys.  He doesn't like to share his toys.  |
I would stand over him, or get down on his level and look him in his eyes and point and give the command in that totally neutral, noncondemning training voice, "leave it", drop it, whatever you use, and hold that position - keep him looking at you, keep pointing and don't let him step away until he drops it. Keep him corralled there with your hands and arms and keep eye contact. He doesn't walk or turn away until he drops it. (Use a leash at first to keep him there if necessary.) Then, first and every other time he drops it, whoopee!!!! Say the word "Yes!" instantly and treat instantly and then
really connect with him with lots of love. Just love him up and hold him and rub his back so gently and praise, praise, praise. Tell him you are sooooo proud of him and he is such a good boy.
But you must stand him down and no leaving the area until that ball is on the floor. Whatever you do during that standoff, do not get frustrated or mad because he will pick up on that
instantly and get defensive - keep it cool and calm and stay in totally neutral training mode - but stand him down nevertheless. Anytime he doesn't drop the ball, it is a stand down. And then it is treat, partytime and love. He will get the idea the stand down is nonproductive and dropping it is way more fun! Tibbe works for the payoff he gets first and foremost and then it becomes habit. But it is like you say, you have to keep up on training and keep it positive and fun most of all.