front & treats

[flyballmom]

Originally Posted by debbiej

I like the visual of you trying to get the toy out!! I didn't know Blitz was patient!

The idea is to start out holding the toy with both hands, have the dog come front, drop the toy. I just about got knocked flat a few times doing that. The next step is rolling the toy into the hem of your shirt. Ideally you should just be able to brush the sides of your shirt with your hands and have the toy fall out. THAT part doesn't seem to work for me. Blitz has learned that mom is a klutz

[Miabella]

Another thing you can do with a toy is hold it under your chin and drop it for the dog to catch when it is in front. And yet another thing that works great if you are brave and tall and don't value your knees is to throw the toy between your legs and have your dog go between your legs for the toy. This really helps with the auto-finish issue because the dog starts thinking about driving right into you. Like I said, you have to be brave.

[Judi W]

but, at this point with a trial breathing down your neck, don't get too creative or you could lose more than you gain. If she starts to give you an automatic finish you can make your little ahhahhh sound, then as she catches herself, good and a big smile. When you are going to trial the dog needs to know it is working for approval and a delayed reward - a good treat at the end of the performance.

[debbiej]

I won't be trying any new things, I want consistancy right now! what is interesting is that both trainers, completely independant of each other, have used hands in front with treat for come front. now I have other options. last night when I got home, I tried the front with smile and eye contact. she was intrigued. or maybe she was puzzled about doing obedience in the living room at 11:30.

[debbiej]

we practiced the come front outside in a more formal way. If I say her name, get eye contact and say front, she does come in keeping eye contact and sits. looking up the whole time. thank you again.