On leash "Come", "Stay" and such till 100%+, no yanking needed, just a "No" command and maybe a rattle can, distraction tests as obedience increases. Then off leash in a small confined area till perfect and again distraction tests. Then on leash again with distraction in larger confined area like fenced back yard and off leash then in a strange confined area like park ball field that completely fenced.
Always stop on winning note and lengthen sessions slowly, stop before you lose dogs attention. I used to train Protection animals, you have to have 110% obedience before you go to protection phase. Clients would get frustrated that I would not start till dog was at least a year old and client could demonstrate 110% control of dog.
Training a service dog can take 18 months, so training a pet is cake. |