Advice for 5 year old Black Lab

[mittenman]

I have a nearly 5 year old black lab (got her on Craigslist so could have something else) that my wife and I got when she was just 7 weeks old. She was intended to just be a companion like the dogs I grew up with. I grew up hunting in Michigan and just getting into it out here in Washington. Mostly looking to get her out for grouse and some occasional waterfowl. Rather than leave her at home, I'd like to get her out with me.

She is a very strong swimmer and you can't keep her out of it. She also does well hiking off leash and stays close and comes when called. The big issue I have is that she is "no take, only throw". This bad habit is due to my lack of training and her picking up bad habits when other dogs steal her ball at the dog park - she sometimes just won't drop. I worked her for a few months while we were in Michigan and she was getting much better. So I know that it will take time.

Planning on buying some books by Richard Wolters to see what I can glean from those. Open to any thoughts from you all who have MUCH more experience than me.

[Birdguy]

Welcome to the site!!! I am by no means an expert of any kind but consistency is VERY important. Her being 5 means 4 or 5 good years left most likely, maybe longer. Grouse hunting is a great start as it will just be the two of you, no pressure. There are several areas on the east side where you can quail hunt alone as well. Not knowing your dog maybe that is all it takes. Maybe a shock collar is an option? I know there are several trainers and training opportunities on your side of the water that someone in the know can chime in here with. Biggest issue is season is now and lots of guys are hunting.

Best of luck to you and your dog and be sure to post pics of her first retrieve!!

[mittenman]

Appreciate it!

[Curly]

Force fetch training is likely the answer. I took my dog for professional training so I'm no help for advice on how to do it yourself.

[lokidog]

I would suggest treat training even though I am not a big fan of that overall. However, if she is bringing the ball back, she might be more than happy to trade it for a tasty bit of hot dog.  Also, from experience, tennis balls are really easy to fit in their mouth and hold, a bumper or a duck, not so much.  Try working with something other than a tennis ball.

We just sent our youngest off to boot camp for a couple of months, oh my, the house is so quiet with just Amber....    A week or so with a pro wouldn't hurt anything.  We have been really happy with Jeff Hunter.

[mittenman]

Force fetch training is likely the answer. I took my dog for professional training so I'm no help for advice on how to do it yourself.

Just did some quick research and looks like this should definitely help. She won't like it, that's for sure.

[Birdguy]

Force fetch is often not a quick training. It takes time and the right trainer. It is exactly what she needs but perhaps over the next off season? Best of luck getting her into the field and contributing to your time afield.

[mittenman]

Force fetch is often not a quick training. It takes time and the right trainer. It is exactly what she needs but perhaps over the next off season? Best of luck getting her into the field and contributing to your time afield.

I hear you. Being 5 years old, her habits are pretty well ingrained and going to take time to break. Doing a lot of research before I just start hacking it. 

[lokidog]

Force fetch is often not a quick training. It takes time and the right trainer. It is exactly what she needs but perhaps over the next off season? Best of luck getting her into the field and contributing to your time afield.

I hear you. Being 5 years old, her habits are pretty well ingrained and going to take time to break. Doing a lot of research before I just start hacking it.

From my understanding, force fetch is to get the dog to hold until you tell them to drop, no matter what. It seems you have that "problem" already taken care of. I still think using something other than a ball and offering treats in exchange could do wonders.

[Curly]

Force fetch is often not a quick training. It takes time and the right trainer. It is exactly what she needs but perhaps over the next off season? Best of luck getting her into the field and contributing to your time afield.

I hear you. Being 5 years old, her habits are pretty well ingrained and going to take time to break. Doing a lot of research before I just start hacking it.

From my understanding, force fetch is to get the dog to hold until you tell them to drop, no matter what. It seems you have that "problem" already taken care of. I still think using something other than a ball and offering treats in exchange could do wonders.

Mittenman did say the problem is that she won't drop.

..... at the dog park - she sometimes just won't drop..

[Colin]

If your just looking for a reliable retrieve and delivery i think FF and obedience would fix all your issues. Question is are you able to train the dog to the level you are wanting? You may want to seek out a mentor or pay for a pro. You could probably get by with a forced hold, obedience and collar conditioning if you're trying to do it on your own. Bill Hillman has some great videos on youtube that are free.

There are a few Hunting Retriever Clubs in the state as well as multiple pro's who may be of interest to you. Where you located?

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[mittenman]

Force fetch is often not a quick training. It takes time and the right trainer. It is exactly what she needs but perhaps over the next off season? Best of luck getting her into the field and contributing to your time afield.

I hear you. Being 5 years old, her habits are pretty well ingrained and going to take time to break. Doing a lot of research before I just start hacking it.

From my understanding, force fetch is to get the dog to hold until you tell them to drop, no matter what. It seems you have that "problem" already taken care of. I still think using something other than a ball and offering treats in exchange could do wonders.

Makes sense - but she isn't motivated by treats when we are playing. She is only focused on the ball and/or stick.

[mittenman]

If your just looking for a reliable retrieve and delivery i think FF and obedience would fix all your issues. Question is are you able to train the dog to the level you are wanting? You may want to seek out a mentor or pay for a pro. You could probably get by with a forced hold, obedience and collar conditioning if you're trying to do it on your own. Bill Hillman has some great videos on youtube that are free.

There are a few Hunting Retriever Clubs in the state as well as multiple pro's who may be of interest to you. Where you located?

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I'm in Seattle. Not opposed to driving so open to suggestions.

[lokidog]

Have you tried rubber bumpers or the bird shaped ones?  Maybe a change of fetched item and renewed training would work? Rolling the lower lip over their teeth has always worked for opening up a mouth that doesn't want to let go of something.

[mittenman]

Have you tried rubber bumpers or the bird shaped ones?  Maybe a change of fetched item and renewed training would work? Rolling the lower lip over their teeth has always worked for opening up a mouth that doesn't want to let go of something.

Doesn't really matter what the object is. She just holds on and won't come close, afraid you'll steal it and take it away. The only thing that works is having another ball/stick to throw.

[Ruger]

A lab will retrieve it is natural, now not coming back that is because you have always used a ball and dog park like you said.

I would suggest:
1. Not going to the dog park for awhile
2. Get a kid 50' check cord
3. Work on the retrieve and return now that you have something attached to her and can control her coming back
4. It will take some time but reward her each time she comes to you and gives you the bumper