[Dan Stephano]

It's been 12 years since my last puppy. I have started tossing a ball or duck wing for my 9 week old BLF and she is very excited about going after it. She picks it up and usually drops it - maybe 15-20% of the time she brings it back. She always comes running back to me. I'm working with her 3 times a day for 4or 5 tosses and started this 5 days ago.

I know she's young and it is very early on. Will she eventually get it and start bringing the ball/ wing back? Her interest is strong to go after it but not nearly as strong as her desire to run back to me for a piece of kibble. I assume this is part of her learning curve or should I be doing something different?

thanks.

 

[MNHunter]

I'm no expert, just about to start with a new pup myself. I'm just wondering, are you following a training program at all? Most here recommend a puppy program like Hillmanns, Smartworks, Sound Beginnings, ect...

 

[nogie1717]

Checkout Hillmanns free videos here: https://m.youtube.com/user/hawkeyemedianet

i wouldn't be concerned with her not returning with wing or ball. The enthusiasm is the main thing and I think it's good she comes back to you. Nurture those things and eventually she'll get it. 9 weeks is pretty young to get focused on her returning the ball to hand, or even back to you.

beautiful girl you have there!

 

[Ted Shih]

Shorten your retrieves. Reduce the number of retrieves. Increase the excitement during retrieves. Throw down an enclosed hallway where the puppy must return to you. See what happens.

 

[Dan Stephano]

Thanks guys - I assumed it is a little early. I will look into those videos, I've been reading a few training books and they haven't touched in this specificly.

i think she's on schedule - she knows her name, sits and comes on command so far. I'll keep you posted on progress.

 

[Chulme123]

If you have a narrow hallway in your house try that. I used that on the last two pups I trained. An when they pick up the ball, toy, etc. it really only allows them to come straight back to you.

 

[BJGatley]

Thanks guys - I assumed it is a little early. I will look into those videos, I've been reading a few training books and they haven't touched in this specificly.

i think she's on schedule - she knows her name, sits and comes on command so far. I'll keep you posted on progress.

Understand that there is no schedule...common fallacy with humans.