[caglatz]

I'm in the process of working on the HOLD command with my 8 mo lab, just prior to Force Fetch. I have read the Smartworks I - book and am in the process of reading through SmartFetch. In addition, I've just viewed for the first time the SmartFetch DVD - I think all the material so far is outstanding.
The question that I have is regards to the DVD, where Mr. Graham demonstrates Force to Mini Pile (3 bumpers) and ecollar stimulation. Am I correct to assume that when we condition the pup to ecollar stimulation we use the "continuous setting" until the dog picks up the bumper, but that when we transition to Force to Pile, we switch over to using the "momentary" stimulation with FETCH [no go] "nick" FETCH ....?
This is my first lab that I'm training so I'm very new to this. This will be my first time going through FF.

 

[Evan]

The question that I have is regards to the DVD, where Mr. Graham demonstrates Force to Mini Pile (3 bumpers) and ecollar stimulation. Am I correct to assume that when we condition the pup to ecollar stimulation we use the "continuous setting" until the dog picks up the bumper, but that when we transition to Force to Pile, we switch over to using the "momentary" stimulation with FETCH [no go] "nick" FETCH ....?
This is my first lab that I'm training so I'm very new to this. This will be my first time going through FF.

Close. But I'm glad you asked.

Slip disc 2 in your player and select chapter 5: Force to Pile. The first segment is Mini-T, and the very first sequence of forcing on the Mini-pile (the 3-bumper pile), text appears on screen and remains for some time that says "All forcing on low & medium level 2 "nicks"..."

Is that what you were asking? Or are you getting no-goes?

Evan

 

[Evan]

Is that what you were asking? Or are you getting no-goes? The dog in that segment initially no-goes, and is forced on low level 2, which is visibly increased to medium 2 nick. That produces a successfuly fetch, and the session proceeds.

Evan

 

[Gina]

I want to point out that directly after FF when you first introduce the mini pile(Evan correct me if I am wrong) you reinforce w/ the ear pinch and not the collar because the dog has only been CC'd to HERE at this point. This was my initial point of confusion.

 

[Evan]

As the years have gone by I've continued to advance and streamline a few things about the system. That has always been so, both in my system and in others.

On the SmartFetch DVD is the most current and most complete information on this topic. When we fetch to the ground and begin to get the dog moving, I have demonstrated two techniques for CC-to-fetch, and I advocate doing this before moving on to Walking Fetch, and all the other steps along the way. I think you'll find it yields far better results, and makes the entire process flow more smoothly.

Evan

 

[caglatz]

Thanks to Evan and Gina for your responses. It's helping me to clarify and understand better. I'm actually not yet at that point in FF - but I like to understand how the mechanics work first. Evan if I can thank you again for your program - I've really read almost everything I could get my hands on out there. I've found your program the easiest and most complete to read so far. Thanks for taking the time to answer my question.

 

[Gina]

Guess I'll have to get that DVD then. :wink:

 

[Evan]

I predict you'll like it!

Evan