OBEDIENCE WITH ELLEN

 

  Who doesn't love a great toy? There are so many options out there -- check out K9 Design's site I use a combination of Toys, Treats (usually string cheese, but sometimes my Doggy Crack - recipe to come) and lots of praise when I train.  There's a lot that I LOVE about training with toys. The stakes are HIGHER!  Dog tries HARDER High Drive Dogs get tired. . . and it can be great for conditioning. It can take the place of luring, depending on body placement. And THIS is why I love using Magnet Toys. But like everything else good in life, there are also RULES: It is MY toy, not theirs. It is only used when we are training. It is not their chew toy. Dog not allowed to grab the toy until I give him his command or a positive marker. Avoid being bitten! Hold the toy in a way that the dog has PLENTY of room to grab it. Then give the cue (yes, ok, get it or whatever you wish). Tug for short periods (many of us don't wish to be in traction). Hold the collar tab or the leash at ...