Training dogs off leash - Page 2

That is just awesome! :) I have seen a lot of clicker trainers do it as well, I know many do not like this form of training but I really do. And I have seen amazing things done with it.

What about in the "teenager" stages, how exactly are dogs considered to be rebellious at this stage. I never had a dog so young, only a foster, and I do not quite understand what that means. If you get your pup off to a good start, and when they naturally want to follow you, and you make yourself as one of the best things in the world through positive reinforcement, wouldn't that create a good bond and with respect? If you and your dog grow with love in your relationship without being harsh or abusive, I would assume a dog wouldn't want to run away from you or go to far from u even if you wanted them to..

Great to hear from you all by the way.

We use clickers as well for beginning obedience training on itty bitty puppies. It is easy to free shape the basic commands and add command words as you go. We phase out the clicker in a few sessions rewarding with another high value item such as a ball or verbal/physical praise depending on the dog. The final stage would be proofing, or correcting for non compliance after a command is well known and then rewarded for doing as asked. Then we start over with distractions.

Some dogs go through hormonal stages as teenagers but as long as you stick with reinforcing commands when asked. I have young dogs now whom I feel comfortable taking out in the fields off leash and adults as well. I also have adults that need much more work before I would feel comfortable off leash in a field.

Much also depends on the dogs themselves. What works for one may not for another.

Melissa

Melissa!!!

You are one of the few people who I have met that uses positive reinforcement with clickers. I know many people DESPISE clickers, but I think that it teaches the dog to think on its own without force. I also think teaching tricks with a clicker helps to keep the dogs mind sharp with mental stimulation.

And your right, what could work for one dog may not work for another. But I do also think it's important the way the pups have a start in life when leaving the breeders home. Many people overuse commands, or assume things when training.

I really like your training ways Melissa! Keep up the great work! :))) Are you breeder by the way? :)

nice thread .. BUT this is a very very bad topic to discuss via computer / forum !! there are a multitude of variables that will contribute to teaching / [training] a dog on or off leash . e.g. the experience of the owner , the temperament of the dog , environmental influences etc etc........each dog and owner is unique in thier relationship ... THAT is what one should be concearned about .. THE RELATIONSHIP .. some dogs are highly inquisiitve , independent , alpha sort to speak / with a soft mild owner- perhaps  a better choice is to keep these dogs on a leash until the relationship / the communication / the lessons to be learned etc ,  have been set in order............. a very soft dog , with high pack/owner affinity , who wants to please and wants to follow , paired with a very experienced owner , who is an  an enforcer and who is a clear precise teacher may havdecide to give  more liberty and be off-leash .just remember the leash is only a toolR and in essence an extension of yourself physically , just an extension of your arm ...AND PRIVLEDGES & FREEDOM  ARE EARNED  . So .... does one need that OR does one not need a leash ?? ??  one cannot get as clearly arrive at a  decision .. on leash / off leash by reading posts on a forum  . ther are to many philosopihies and . to many variables without seeing the dog and owner to say what is best !!

Alphapup,

You are absolutely right. My methods are used starting at 5 weeks old before puppies go home and continue with the ones I keep. Bonding and the relationship you have with your dog is of the utmost importance. A dog that doesn't give a crap about you as the handler would not give you the time of day.

We believe in using what the dog gives you to get the desired behaviors. A good foundation is important and giving the young puppy a thirst for learning sets the tone for easier training later on. I want puppies with a "can do" attitude rather then "oh, ok. I'll do it because I have to" attitude.

GS, I guess you would call me a breeder as we breed first and foremost for ourselves. I rarely have a true pet quality puppy in my litters and place the ones I don't keep accordingly, with working homes given the most consideration. No, I don't want my dogs sitting in kennels most of the day and taken out to work only. I prefer someone who will give the dogs the best of both worlds.

Melissa

Alphapup: You are extremely correct! I understand what might work for one dog may not work for another. You must know your dog. You must have a relationship with your dog, and build the trust the dog has for you. Trust that every session of training=play and fun with the owner, that you are not going to create negative associations with you and training. That's why I also find it very important to choose a very wise breeder. Like Melissa said, a foundation with a confident character is what's needed in a pup. it's one thing when the breeder leaves them in a kennel all day with a CD running than one who makes every way possible to experience those things and socialize in a fun way. Alphapup I would also love to hear about your dogs! you seem to really know this stuff! that is if you want to share of course!

Melissa,
What kind of working lines do you breed (i am assuming you breed working lines from your avatar :P)? I am thrilled to hear what a great start in life your dogs have! Your foundation is very important to a well formed character in the future if training and love is still running with the new family. :)

GermShep 3.  i would be more than happy to share thoughts and experiences regarding the GSDs. In short i have had 24 VA German progeny in my life ..had 13 at once  , one  time but now down to 10 living in my householdright  next to me .. they all have taught me about life and canines .....   each has had their own personality and gifts . many were my demo dogs for my training school , some for sport , others for breeding . some working lines and others show lines.  '  have also had malinois too . you are welcome to converse -send a note to my inbox on this forum . Regards AP  

Hey GS,
I PMd you as well :)

Melissa