turn&burn92":1dpzhoz7 said:
I am looking for some training tips. I have a 6 month old female Blue Heeler. I am wanting to train her and teach her manners so I can let her out of her pen without a leash. We live about a 1/2 mile off the road.
Thanks,
Kate
The first thing you need to do is some obedience training - basic 'come', 'sit', 'down', 'leave it', and 'stay' commands. I've found that if you hold a treat in front of a dog, then slowly raise it over their heads most young dogs will follow the treat with their eyes and automatically sit down. As they get ready to sit down, give the command "Sit". Same thing with 'down', just lower the treat to the floor, and give the command. You will need to be very consistent, and she will need to be on leash until you are confident she will respond to these commands on a consistent basis. Once you are confident, put her on a longer leash and see if she still responds. If she does, check around your area for a fenced in dog play area. If you can't find a fenced in play area for dogs, try the local high school and see if they have a fenced in basketball court, tennis court, or something like that (just be courteous and clean up after your dog, please).
Take her there, take her off leash, and see how she responds under those conditions. That will give you a very good idea as to whether she is ready to be turned loose on your property, but will not endanger her. As far as the road, walk her around the perimeter of your property and every time she crosses the property line - correct her, accompanied by a stern "No!". Over time she will learn her boundaries, learn what is expected of her, and respond accordingly. To further reinforce your dominance, do not give her treats she has not earned through doing something - say sitting up pretty, laying down and maintaining the position for a couple of minutes(always working to increase the hold time), shaking hands, speaking on command, coming to you, you get the idea. Never fail to verbally reward her for responding correctly, never rely entirely on treats, and never, EVER call her to you to punish her! If she has done something that should be punished, go to her. To do otherwise undermines everything you've taught her. Good luck with Daisey!
To the rest of the board - does anyone know the name of the book that is published by the monestery that breeds, raises, and sells German Shepherd's to supplement their income? That book would be very helpful to Kate, but I lost my copy years ago, and cannot remember the name of it. Thanks!