Training Prob

[Roxy Lady]

This is really hard to explain but i'm not sure if my dog is actually listening or taking notice of my instructions.

I've just put her in a basic obedience class, and shes pretty well behaved and does what shes supposed to, but its seems to me like shes just sort of copying the other dogs and not really 'listening' to me. She doesn't look at me at all.

Last week we did sit (stack), stay, drop lead, walk out and then call dog in, which she did, but when i tell her to stay she seems to take no notice of what i say, i'm just lucky she stands there. Thats what it feels like anyway.

Should i be making her look at me when i give her instructions? Shes doing what shes supposed to but it doesn't feel like shes doing what shes told to.

[dogdude]

Hi Bullyluvr

I take it she is a Bull Terrier?

Having trialled one successfully, I can tell you that you could not have picked a harder dog to train formal obedience!

If you just want to acheive basic obedience, use positive drives only, as they respond very little to aversive methods. Formal aversive training at a dog club will leave you quitting very fast.

Bullys are all about pleasing themselves (while making you laugh) but respond well to food drive or prey drive methods. I honestly am of the opinion that using aversive methods on bullys changes their breed characteristics, having trained 4 myself.

Private lessons will be the go if you can afford it (you will learn 10 times more in one lesson compared to dog club) so is just as economical if you do the homework and listen.

I found that although some of mine have been quicker learners than others, their attitudes to formal training have all been the same. You must keep it interesting.

[4 Paws]

Take a look at K9 Force Pinned topic at the top of the training section-Triangle of Temptation

I had a german shepherd who gave very little eye contact but after doing Steves suggestions i now get great eye contact,it will also help in your overall leadership with your dog looking more to you for guidance

Good Luck

[Roxy Lady]

Thanks guys, will check out the triangle!

Yeah she is a Bull Terrier and i know they are all about themselves thats for sure

I've just been doing basic obedience mainly to get her used to being around other dogs and just having some manners while on lead. I will be showing her early next year, and was using food treats to start with but wanted to get her used to stacking etc without the treat as she would look on the ground for more. With treats i know i have her attention, but without, she does what i say but doesn't really seem to be paying attention, off in her own little world .

[Tonymc]

Bully try training in drive as Dog Dude said. Tony