Training to walk on command


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Training to walk on command

Recently I attended a fun match with my 7 month old bully Teela. She did really well in all aspects of stacking etc. however she did really poorly on walking. She often stopped half way and I had to almost drag her to get her going again! Where I live they don't offer any handling classes etc. so everything I'm learing is from books or the internet. I'm just curious if anyone has any tips on how to get her to walk confidently when prompted? I try using bait etc. but she still won't follow my lead on a consistent basis.

Thanks,
Tammy

Re: Training to walk on command

Thanks everyone, I'll give the suggestions a try. So they don't mind if you have a stuffie or something at the show to make the dog walk? I'm sure she would follow me if I had her favorite polar bear stuffie but I didn't think that would look to professional! ha ha

I'm going to try the lead/clicker idea with some treats and see how that goes. I'm so terrifed about the show in July. At the fun match I was a mess, I can't imagine the real show. I hope I can get her prepared enough by then that I would look like a complete fool! happy.gif It's too bad there aren't any classes or anything in my area....that would help soooo much.

I'm going to try to take a video of her doing patterns and stacking so I can get advice from everyone on what I'm doing wrong or ways to improve. I'll try to post it next week.

Thanks again for the help.

Tammy

I don't think a toy is a big deal, especially if it's a young do

I would think it depends on the judge, but if you're in training, don't worry what the judge thinks. Let her think the ring is a fun place. Also, don't worry too much about how your first show will go. I'm still very new in the ring, so I know exactly how you feel. Don't worry about how you and your dog perform, just worry about learning as much as possible, meeting fellow Bulldoggers, and having fun (which is the most important thing). The shows are a blast, and good luck with everything! happy.gif

Re: Training to walk on command

This is what I do. Take them someplace unfamiliar. A nice wide open space like a park and for every step they take you give them positive reinforcement such good baby. I would still use the bait even thou it hasn't been working.. Don't push it to much as you want it to be a pleasant experience.. This has worked for me in the past... I think the worst thing to do would be to rush it. They may end up walking with the head down every time you put the lead on...



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strictlyred's picture

Re: Find out what motivates her in different situations...

This reminds me of a frenchie I know.. hates to walk in the show ring..owner tried liver and her fav treats..no go..
The only thing that works is this large stuffed animal with a sqeaky in it..So every show you see this adorabe frenchie walking proudly following an old huge toy that the owner sqeaks when he needs her attention..

funny too see, esp in group ring

rewalk

Tammy when she gets use to lead being there & is walking without fighting you then you can use another dog to walk with her it always seems to give them confidence. The lead slipped to right as I was taking picture it should be centered between shoulder blades the lighter the lead the easier it gets. just had this leash to give you a idea. Let me know how it goes

Kim

Find out what motivates her in different situations...

It could be a toy or some food and as soon as she walks consistently 3 steps, give her the motivator and end the lesson if she gave you what you want. You can start the lesson back after a little 30 minute break or so, and then try it again, but see if you can get a few more steps added on. Each time she gives you what you're looking for, give her the treat or toy, and take a break. Start out in a very familiar area like your backyard, and then start going to a park, then to a dog park, and then to a show. The reason you want to start out slow like this, is because you will have a better chance at keeping her attention on you. If the dog goes too long without a reward, then they will lose interest in the activity. Keep it fun and make it into a game of "how many steps can you trot beside me."

Re: sorry meant to post

Great idea! I'll try it, thanks...I'll let you know if she improves with that method.

Tammy

sorry meant to post

Ok Tammy If you put slip lead behind front legs just to train there is know pressure on neck some time you can use resco lead you just have to mmake sure it does not slip back. If this does not work you can teach pup a clicker you can email me at kims tvanimals@aol.com for details.

Re: Training to walk on command

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