First I teach the command "No", it can be used for all kinds of problems if taught right. I never teach any "Come", "Stay" or "Place" command off leash till I am 110% certain that they will obey and then only go off leash in a controlled area. You need to work this command till it is ingrained in their mind. Remember, every time you lose control (Dog does own thing), its like starting over, that's why the leash till perfect.
Unless its a designated "off leash" area why go off leash? There are all kinds of unknowns that can happen that a leash control could save the day, Pit Bull hiding in the bushes, speeding car or whatever. Never chase a dog except in play and dog knows its playtime. Never call a dog for punishment or unpleasant task, like if they do not like bath time, pick them up normal when they are unaware.
Once a dog is 100% they will stay at perfect heel on or off leash, follow commands almost as fast as you can say them, not get distracted by any out side influences. It takes time depending on your skill level, but you and the dog will love it, a stable dog is a happy dog and owner. Give them jobs, they love to work, keep their mind working. Always use hand and voice commands (Including watch me), that way if your dog is far off in noisy area or goes deaf in old age, they will still function fine. Don't use anything that you don't have with you all the time, klickers are nice but what if it breaks, you lose it or leave it home. When Sig started going deaf, I found a noise that she could still hear(Clapping cupped hands) to get her attention, we still enjoyed everything as before, she never realized a handicap.
Most commands can be taught in days to a reasonable level then just throw them into the routine to reinforce. Age and breed have some impact on how soon and how much you can work them into a training routine. Just like kids, if you put the time in the first 6 years of a child's development the rest of their rearing will be a lot easier/nicer. Take a puppy and start as soon as you get them and start training, you will notice at first it will be difficult, but after a few (and getting older also has some effect), you'll be teaching a command in a day or two. Then just run random commands to reinforce, cutting back and randomizing treats, eventually you'll have a happy puppy that just wants a good boy or girl and pat on head or side
Sorry, got long winded, lol, I'd erase it but spent too much time typing |