Force Fetch

The fun has begun! Force Fetch or Trained Retrieve has started in these neck of the woods. The table is built, the dogs have been up on the table a few times, the dogs and the handlers feel comfortable, everyone is relaxed and ready to go.

These handlers are all pretty well as new to this aspect of training as the their dogs are. These are first time photos and the video is pretty raw, pieced together the best I could.

I hope everyone is able to see this video because it shows a little of what can go down, how the dog can and will fight this training, and how the handler needs to remain calm in order to progress forward. They are all learning about the gloved hand, and learning the command to release. This is a very important first step and should be done carefully and methodically. Before moving on from this stage the dog should be accepting the gloved hand with no problem, not chewing or mouthing and staying still for at least 1 minute during a 4-5 time session. This really shouldn't last more than 10 minutes at this phase. If the dog is still giving you problems with any of this keep working at it until you get to the part I just explained. Only then would it be safe to go forward and on to HOLD.

Good Luck to all. Stay Calm. Be patient. In no time you will be back out in the field tossing bumpers and saying Fetch!

Video may take a bit. Having some upload issues. Stay tuned.