Puppy Retrieving

[mossyoaktoe]

I was curious as to how many of you out there experience a natural retrieve witty our dale pups. This is my first, and unfortunately, he is not naturally retrieving. I have him sitting pretty well, and can throw an object and send hm to get it. However, he will not return.

I plan to "force break" him on retrieves but am not sure quite when to start with this little guy. I know the dales can be ornery and will require shorter sessions; should I delay the forced retrieve or just start now and move very slowly? I plan to start with the "ear pinch" method and then move to the ecollar.

Any input on how/when to start this guy is appreciated.

Cheers,
Michael in KC

[frankyme]

My Airedales all had natural retrieve. They also all had little drive to retrieve inanimate objects. They are smart and get bored easily. From early on everyone in the house knew that if the puppy brings you something you accept it and praise. I've had some gross stuff dropped in my hand and I always say "good boy".
I was worried, like you, when my 6 month old puppy still didn't give a crap about bumpers or balls. Then I killed a training bird over him. He grabbed that bird and practically put it in my pocket he was so proud of himself.
I force broke the next dog, just to make training easier. I didn't want to have to kill a training bird for every drill. Now whenever this dog gets bored and wants my attention he goes and gets something he isn't supposed to have and gives it to me. He knows he'll never get in trouble for chewing up a slipper as long as the first time I notice he is giving it to me.
This was the first dog I force trained. And it the experience was difficult for both of us. I had the same plan as you. Ear to collar. Watched the videos read the books. I just had to touch his ear and he would comply. I rarely put any pressure on him. Then I tried to transition to collar. Right away he started refusing. Take it up a notch. Nope nothing. A little more, nope not doing it. Now I'm scared because if I stop he wins, a little more. Looks at me like "FU, turn it up". We took a long break and never went back to collar for force. I still use the collar on occasion to reinforce sit on whistle.
Airedales have an extremely high pain threshold, but they also are very sensitive and can be stubborn. Bad combination for force training.

You say "little guy" so I'm guessing <6 months? If I were you I'd see what he does with a wing clipped pigeon. If doesn't bring it to you I'd be surprised/ worried. If he does build off that for a while. Airedales mature really slowly. I was attempting force at just over a year and in hind sight think it was to early for him.

Frank