Train NOT to do....

[mshel]

We start one-on-one training tomorrow. After the consultation, the trainer told me to make a list of things we want to train Jester to do, and a list of things we don't want him to do.

I'm looking for input from all the veteran rotti moms and dads - what DON'T we want him to do? We know the obvious - jump up on people, race through open doors, food agressive, etc. Jester is our first rott - he's 4 months, and is a sweetie. I am sure there's undesireable breed-specific behavior that "comes with age" that I could nip in the bud if I know about it!

[LisaS]

one way to train some "not to do"s is to train a behaviour that is incompatible with the one you don't want - e.g. automatically SIT for all greetings/petting (can't jump if sitting), automatically SIT at all outside doors, everytime (can't run out if sitting), etc. I think this works better most of the time than one of the alternatives - namely a harsh correction for doing something you don't want.
So I'd probably make my list of behaviors I want only - even for the "not to do"s - e.g. SIT for greeting/petting rather than jumping -
SIT at open doors rather than racing through - WAIT when car door opens rather than jumping out - GIVE me items when I ask for them (cuz he'll steal them) - LEAVE IT when he goes for the sandwich on the coffee table -

[Michael C.]

Not to beg for food while you are eating.

Things you want to be able to do is to handle your dogs feet, inspect their ears and teeth without a fight.

[Karen J. Reece]

My main concerns at that age would be to make sure that you can bathe them, clip their nails, clean their ears and other wise examine them without any problems. I had to work with Mac on letting me get out of the car first instead of him smashing me back against the seat and jumping out. They learn very fast so you need to start early but don't expect too much too soon. They're still just babies. Also socialization is a must when it is safe for them to get around other dogs. My 8 month old (Today is his birthday!!) lives with a 11 year old Eskimo dog and has play sessions with my parents' dog and my brother's dog. Good luck.

[pride-and-joy]

One of my favorites that I have trained Jake "not to do" is be under my feet, between my legs and otherwise jumping all around when I am preparing his meals.

He is 6 months old now and as soon as he hears me open the rubbermaid trashcan that holds his food, HE puts himself in a down/stay in the middle of the kitchen floor (just recently started doing it with out being asked). He anxiously watches as I top off his water bowl, open a can, mix with his kibble, and put the bowls back on the floor.

He doesn't move until I say "OK"...then he launches like a sprinter in the 100 yard dash. It is really cute, but also very encouraging to see the future potential and current fruits of our training.