Training Question
We've started working with Brodie to teach him some basic obedience and he is super responsive, however, I've run into a snag that I'm having trouble solving. In the past, to teach a dog the 'down' command, I simply had them sit, then put the treat slowly down to floor level in front of their nose and said "down". Usually takes a couple of tries and they get the idea. But, of course, I'm used to dogs that have legs! Brodie just puts his nose down for the treat. How do you teach a corgi what is meant by 'down'? I know once he understands what I want him to do, he'll oblige, just can't seem to convey it to him. Oh, and I did try lifting his front feet and moving him to lie down, but when I do that, his back end pops up. And, of course, I giggle, which makes him think he did what he was supposed to do!
Replies to This Discussion
-
Permalink Reply by Cindi on
-
Okie dokie! Yep, this is an issue with stubby dogs. First, start on a slick surface like your kitchen floor. Start the way you know. Sit first, treat at the nose. SLOWLY come down...and then slightly in towards the dog. With their little legs, they lie down two ways: 1. They slide into sit with their legs outstretched under them. or 2. They completely change position and put their legs behind them. By moving slowly inward, you encourage them to slide back into a down.
Promise it works. (I'm a trainer with 6 corgis!)
Cindi
-
Permalink Reply by Anna Morelli on
-
You can also hook your thumb into the collar with your hand spread over the shoulders. The thumb will prevent any forward motion and the hand can apply gentle pressure to the shoulder area, encouraging his going down as you extend the treat outward.. Keep you own body even with the dog, not in front. You don't want to push him down, just help him to understand what you want.
-
Permalink Reply by Chris, Kadi & Brodie on
-
Thank you both! I will work on it with him today and let you know how it goes!
-
Permalink Reply by Marah and Thomas Baker on
-
Just a side note but when u lay his front down and his back end pops up, you could take that opportunity to teach bow. I know everytime I teach a trick I always end up teaching more than one bc I see her do another behavior I want to teach her anyway. As far as down just hold it down til the dog gets tired and flops down then immediately praise and treat. That's how Bailie learned
-
-
Put the tips to use and also incorporated the fact that he knows to lay on his side when we come in the door for me to dry his feet and belly. Had a break through moment and he realized what it was I wanted him to do! Thanks everyone for the help! These little guys are so smart, it's us who are challenged at conveying what we want, not them at doing it!
Rescue Store
Stay Connected
FDA Recall
Canadian Food Inspection Agency Recall
Groups
We support...
Badge
© 2024 Created by Sam Tsang.
Powered by
