what action do you use for "give a correction"

[LisaS]

I'd like to take a survey of what methods are used when training and proofing "stays" -sits or downs. I've seen basically two methods for correcting a break:
1) "AAAK" or "NOOO" followed by a silent return to the spot, physically placing the dog in the desired position, and then leaving again without repeating the command.
2) "AAAK" followed by multiple collar pops while returning to the spot, giving a new position command (sit or down), and then leaving again.
and some combinations of the above - silent return with a 2nd command, collar pops with placing and no 2nd command, etc.

so I'm curious - what do you all use to re-place the dog during the learning/foundation phase, and then what method do you use if a break occurs later during the proofing phase?

Since most dogs break to approach the handler, do you see any problem with the dog understanding correction for the break vs. correction associated with returning to the handler?

[This message has been edited by LisaS (edited November 05, 2000).]

[WorkinDogz]

In the imprinting stage I don't say a word or make a sound.

If the dog breaks the position; it's my que that I'm too far away and the dog isn't ready for me to be there. I go back to the front of the dog for a couple of sessions and then walk in frequently and reward "Good Sit" (I personally don't use a stay command..it's understood that the dog is to remain in whatever position until given another command or released) then walk back out.

After the imprinting and I know the dog KNOWS what I'm talking about....again...I say nothing but walk in...firmly take the collar, walk back to the exact spot he/she broke from and verbally correct "NO SIT" (again..I don't use stay...the dog broke the SIT)

I don't correct the dog by popping the collar or anything on the way back to the position.

[K9-man]

I do the exact same thing as WorkinDogz does. However, I’ll use a “stay” command if my dog(s) will be sitting for more than 2 ½ minutes, or lying down for more than 5 minutes. If I don’t say, “stay” she’s still expected to hold the position until released.

[Ethár]

When learning a new command I do not leave the dog at all. For example sit or stay - I stand beside the dog to be able to correct immediately (in a firm but nice way of course).

When my dog knows what I mean I use the "No-word" followed immediately of praise when doing right.

HOWEVER: I have noticed that Ambrosius have shorter periods sometimes when he has "forgotten" what he learnt... then I start all over again (but in a more quick tempo) - needs to refresh now and then.

It is normal that training goes up and down more or less. I do not demant 100% of him until he is fully grown - but I do have demands up to a certain level.

[Judi W]

Agreed with all of the above and I would like to add that if you are alert, you will see the dog shift its body before it breaks. That is when you can use a verbal correction or reminder (ackack) not afterwards.

[Carol Burke]

Workindogz has it exactly right!!

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Carol
Darrlburg Rottweilers

[Michael C.]

I am no expert but one thing I have learned is some dogs require a firmer correction than others. Our dog for example is a softie and a too hard of a correction with the prong does more damage than good. I used to say "aaak" followed by a correction with the prong, but now I just say "aak" and put the dog back in place. She seems to respond better to this and it seems more fun for her if I dont use the prong.