While the prize possession is in your dog's mouth, you could scold them with a firm "NO". They may let go and drop it or they may clench their jaws with no intention of letting go! You can prevent a lot of frustration and chasing games just by teaching your dog the Out Command.
I like the word Out because it sounds firm and is short; it can be said quickly and with authority. I think is is easier to say than Leave it. Out can also be said when your dog thinks about putting something undesirable in their mouth. I have used this command for many years to "Make" dogs let go by inserting my thumb into the side of their mouth or by waiting til they let go. Both of these ways can cause a "Battle of Wills"....as in Who can Outlast Whom?
I was pointed in a new direction by a fellow dog trainer, Peg Munves. She suggested looking at another technique by Chirag Patel (a trainer in the UK) that teaches the dog the word's meaning before they even have something in their mouth. Then when they do have something they shouldn't, the dog will understand how to let go for something better. The dog is cooperative from the start; no fighting you for the item.
This technique is like a trade because you will offer the dog something more valuable. The difference is how the reward is delivered: Tossed on the floor. Most importantly, because you will be pointing out pieces of food for your dog to eat, it teaches your dog not to bite you when your hand is close to the item and their mouth. That way you can reach safely for the item.
Here is a video of a practice session with Tommy and his owner. Teaching Out is a process and this is only the beginning. Having the Out word in place will be beneficial when it really counts.
Out of the DogHouse LLC website www.ohiodogtrainer.net
Contact Dru Therrian 440.286.9070
No comments:
Post a Comment