I always bring a toy on my walks, I often have food in my pocket. Do I always use them? No. Do I always need them? No. But if I need to use them, I will, as distraction, motivation & reward, especially with certain dogs in certain environments. My dogs are trained to a really high standard, but if I want them to respond, without question, in really distracting environments (on set for example, at the beach, passing other dogs) do I use food? Of course I do and I make no apologies for this? You get paid for your work, don’t you? Be a good & fair employer to your dogs. Pay them for a job well done. Pay them a bonus for a super job well done. But please don’t just pay them for turning up.
Fun Retrieve Ideas to Game-Up Your Dog’s Play!
I was recently asked by an owner of a ball-mad spaniel how they could get more out of games with their dog, without just relying on fetch. This is a great question. Playing more imaginative games can help keep your dog keen and focused. It's great way to train as you...
