I usually have treats in my pocket and all over the house. I ask for the command and then give the treat. The trainer also taught us to say "OK, let's go get your treat" and then do so. This is a current issue for me because Loki has been in a perpetual "what's in it for me" mood and he won't do anything unless he sees the treat. He hasn't always been like that, either. So if you show the treat first, you may end up with the same problem we have.
When I'm training a NEW trick and want full attention, I go grab the treat can and set it on the floor. Then I ask Loki if he wants to do "homework" He knows this means we try new things and he gets rapid fire treats. So I treat those situations differently. Sometimes I even put his leash on him since he is used to working at class with his leash on (just so he doesn't run off) and for some reason he associates his leash with "working". Probably because he can't run away. Another way to keep attention is to work in a small space, like a bathroom or hallway.
The other thing you can do is teach the "watch" command. I know how it is when they look at the treat and not you! Also use hand signals so they have to watch you. And you can also put the treat in your mouth and leave your hands out if it (drop the treat from your mouth). Loki's trainer does this with her labs who are a lot taller and it works wonderfully - they never take their eyes off her. I had a harder time with aiming for Loki when he's all the way on the floor. But if you can get it right, it does work!! |