Originally Posted by
bronko22000
That may help JW. I've done that twice and it really works on teaching a dog to pick up (fetch) and release on command. But it is really heart breaking to a dog lover to do. I may have to go that route. But she likes to pick the dummy up but when she comes back she runs right past me unless I stop her. I may have to go back to basics and reteach her to heel. I think I'll start with that first.
You are certainly correct. As said by others you know what your are doing. But FF done correctly does and will bring the dog down. However the good trainers learn how to build the dog back up after the dog has an understanding of the word 'Fetch.' All my dogs go through FF - some are easy - some so-so and some are a Son of a gun. The hardest dogs IMO are the softer temperament dogs. Those I look for ways to make it fun and with lots of positive constant praise type repitition. I look for ways to bring that tail back up once I the dog has the understanding.
And I have yet to see a natural. So FF is what I suggest.
And as far as running past you. Use a corner or someplace that both sides comes to a point and the dog can not get past you.
My wife helps me a lot. She thought it would be nice is the dog fetched to newspaper. So she worked on that. Now if that early morning paper hits the porch at 3 AM she has to get up as that dog will not leave her alone until that paper is brought in.
And if I say the command fetch with the two I have now - one never knows what they will bring. Might be some dirty drawers out of a laundry basket or a shoe or two.........but every time the dog is praised.
My wife and I even trade the TV remote. Say fetch and give it to the dog.
JW