Quote:
Originally Posted by capt_noonie  Please! Please! Tell me what are the other two steps! |
The third step was were we got stuck...my failure because I had advanced too quickly so we back-tracked working on impulse control (his and mine) and holding position for longer duration.
In a nut shell, what you need to accomplish is to have your pup understand he/she is going to be rewarded with a higher value treat for holding their snout leveled while balancing the treat on his/her nose, to hold that position without going for it, for about 10 seconds is key to moving onto step 4.
Exercise:
Put the treat on his/her nose, tell them "leave it” have them hold that position a couple of seconds, then take the treat off, reward with a higher value treat and praise, praise, praise! Practice, repeat while adding seconds to the exercise...remember, the goal is to extending that hold for 10 seconds.
Tip: If possible, it is important to never let your dog get to that lower value treat that was balancing on their on their nose. This teaches them they get rewarded for dropping their head. If your pup is dropping treats, do your best not to let them pick it up and eat it. Grab it up or block.
Step 4 seems to happens naturally, often shortly after when the pups mastered step 3. After a while your dog will fixate on the treat on his/her nose. Look for that deep stare and concentration, when see it, give your command…. okay, take it, get it, whatever you choose. When they go for it, praise and reward, don’t worry too much if at first they miss the catch. You may need to tweak where on the nose you position the treat.
No pressure, but I know you are a fantastic trainer Priscilla. If anyone can do it , you can! I'll be here if you need tips or some trouble shooting.
