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TRAINING TIPS

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DROPPING OUR INFLUENCE: STAGES

                  1                                  2                                  3

Full Leash

Influence

We want to utilize our leash to guide and show our companions what we are trying to accomplish when learning. 

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Having a leash on more at the beginning give you a chance to build a close relationship. Trust is a huge part of the process, both ways!

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We must guide first, then expect once they have an understanding!

Half Leash

Influence

Companion should have a better understanding on what you are asking, so we can now expect them to demonstrate more as we move forward.

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Use less of your leash, more hand signals and verbal cues.

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Example: when you come to a stop, your companion should be slowing down by your side waiting for the next move (using less influence of your leash)

Zero Leash

Influence

We are fully setting our companions up for off-leash obedience.

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Commands and influence should be expected more with zero leash use.

 

Hand signals, verbal cues and proximity movements are utilized fully.

ENGAGING:  INTRO WITH "1,2,3,OK"!

                  1                                  2                                  3

The Break Down

  • "1,2,3 ok" technique is useful in many areas

  • Helps teach our companions what we are asking, with out overwhelming

  • Typically by the 3rd time asked, they want to move on.  Once they comply that 3rd time, higher reward is given right after

  • Shows our companions the concept of give and take

  • Builds self restraint

Guide & Tips

  • Start simple with your obedience, build up

  • Start in a low distraction area until communication is stronger

  • Your body language & voice helps add to the excitement of the freedom (don't be afraid to use that cheerleader voice!)

  • Giving our companions freedom after learning or training is great balance

Example

Let's use sit, stay & heel for an example

1. Start in a sit/stay at your heel.

2. "stay" walk forward 2 steps then stop.

3. "heel" stop companion by side, "sit", then praise.

4. Repeat 3 times total ( gradually get to end of leash)

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Remember to release after the 3rd time and reward!

ENERGY LEVELS:  ENGAGING PRIOR TO WALK

                  LOW                          MEDIUM                          HIGH

Tips

  • Engage with happy/positive energy to help influence excitement for the walk ahead   ( use toy, treats or physically play)

  • Keep the obedience and commands light and short to keep energy higher

  • Motivation and praise go a long way when encouraging to engage with you

Tips

  • Engage with a fun activity prior to your walk (play tug, fetch, etc)

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  • In between your fun, throw a few commands in there such as "sit, leave it, Ok..."to help keep the focus ( this also helps break the over excitement)

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  • Play 5-10 min then relax for at least 5-10 min

Tips

  • Engage with a fun activity that involves higher energy ( playing tug, fetch, distance or burst running, etc)

  • Give your self some time to get that HIGH layer of energy off

  • Typically 10-15 mins is a solid base to start

  • Give a resting period of at least 15-20 mins before walk

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