Training the Pointing Labrador

#197 G Update and Two Listener Questions

In this episode, after describing G's first run in the APLA Master tests, I address two listener issues:  

1. Staying "in the literal moment" while running competitive events and 

2. What to do with all the "down time" when raising a puppy.  After the walk and obedience training, what do we do with all the other time?

 

Book, Audiobook and Video series at Batesworks.net

#196 Listener Question about Finishing the Upland Fields and Starting Cold Blinds

In this episode, in response to a request, we talk about how to take a fire breathing dragon in the upland field to be staunch and steady, and then how to transition from pattern blinds to cold blinds.  Both are BIG steps, which are most easily taken by building from fundamentals, teaching, teaching, teaching....

 

Books and Videos available on Batesworks.net

#195 Thoughts on Designing your Training Program

In this episode, based on a client inquiry as to "how many hours a day" I train a dog, I discuss the thinking about daily training efforts.  More is virtually never better, often much worse to do to a dog in training.  Join this discussion on approaching the most effective way to train your dog for your desired outcome.

 

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# 194 Listener Questions

In today's episode, I address three questions I've gotten from people.  1.  How do you pick where you get your pup; how do you know if it's the right fit? 2. What things are there to do with my retriever, what venues, what kind of competition?  And 3. Some ideas about utilizing training groups and local clubs to prepare for the upcoming competitive season.

 

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#193 The Critical Importance of Basic Obedience

In this episode, I break down what "Basic Obedience" actually is, and why it is the life-saving, problem-solving tool that leads to most training success.  It is far simpler than most people think but requires a great deal of clarity and attention.  Even veteran dog people can improve things with this approach.  Never a bad thing to practice...

 

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#192 When your Dog Regresses in your Training Program

In this episode, based upon a suggestion for a podcast, I talk about the various reasons a dog which was performing well may begin to exhibit poorer performance consistently.  There can be a number of reasons for this and it's always better to consider what may have happened before taking any action to address it.  Not the simplest topic in the world.

 

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#191 Dog Psychology and Human Psychology, Working in Combination

In this episode, I address 4 questions/suggestions I've received lately, all related to this working of dog minds with human minds, and hearts.  Fascinating topic and I touch on a little of it here.  1. Process or Goal, which is more important? 2. What do you do when a dog regresses in your training program. 3. How do dogs actually think and feel regarding our relationship?  4. How do you train when suffering either physical or emotional injury or rehab?

 

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#190 G Update and Pointing Retriever Training Questions

In this episode, I talk about G's continued performance and her sisters new pointing prowess, followed by a discussion from several listener questions regarding bringing out the pointing in their pointing retrievers.  It's not a hard and fast science, and it requires a good understanding of what the dog is thinking while you're training.  Always a fun  topic!

 

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#189 Finishing up your Dog Building

In this 4th installment of Building your dog, I breakdown the approach of maintaining balance between 4 important elements of your growing pup: purpose, relationship, athleticism and intellect.  Keeping these in the right proportions results in a dog who is healthy, fit, understands its role in your life and contributes to all your activities.

 

Book, videos and audiobook available at www.Batesworks.net

#188 Building your Dog III Teaching them to Think

In the 3rd in the series of Building Your Dog, this episode breaks down the importance to teaching your dog to take responsibility for its' actions.  Dogs can and should learn to understand common situations in their lives and adjust their behavior appropriately.  This is a skill however, not something that always comes naturally.  Often we allow them to learn to exert their will to get what they want, and not how to be a productive and pleasant team member.  It is not a hard thing to do, but it does take thought in all your interactions.

 

www.Batesworks.net