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This convo reminded me of this post from a while ago and it is FOR sure important to have the dogs follow directional leash pumps and be able to even use the leash as help before ecollar in heel when possible. I think it is really good that you ensure that your client dogs know how to move directionally with the leash because it will give them the ability to pump the dog over to the other side in an emergency or give the dog directional guidance with the leash without having to say anything. Also silent leash pumps in heel are used as help and often prevent the need for an ecollar correction. I have had clients get confused as the mechanics become more advanced (which is normal) and so I often look for areas in my instruction that create ambiguity and try to clear it up.
This Post is from when I had stormy and I thought of it when I was reading your stuff it took me a while to find it, but It’s a fun challenge and it was a reminder of how grateful I am to be here to learn from you and stay sharp and pliable.
Post:
So, I was nerding out chatting with @Dustin about training with hand signals vs. the dog knowing verbal commands. Hand signals are so easy for our masters of body language….and I was like “doing them blind would be the ultimate proof of the verbal command”….so we did that….and I was so impressed with my girl I shared it with Mike….he said….what about doing verbal, hand signals, and just leash pumps….does she know all 3? #challengeaccepted. My takeaways are: 1: dogs are amazing, this was like an impromptu “lets see what happens” and Storm killed it. It is so cool how much nuance and forms of communication we can have with them. They are certainly not linear thinkers.
2: If we teach with predictability, and are fair….our dogs are not afraid of trying new things, or generalizing old things, they aren’t afraid of making mistakes….
3: The relationship that FSDT has given Storm and I is….humbling…I truly can’t think of a better word. That this dog trusts me to do all kinds of wacky things….with “gusto” is a result of what I have learned here. I have never had a personal dog who had zero fear involved in the training process. It’s little moments like these that just make me right sized again and I am so grateful for this experience.
I know I am preaching to the choir….but where else can be this sappy and nerdy about dog training
https://youtu.be/DzMhLYCC_Fs?si=RqFuoHLFyMZGHsc_
