My new lab puppy won't bring back the dummy - just runs around with it
Just got my first bird dog, an 8-week-old black Lab. I'm trying to start with basic retrieving using a canvas dummy in the yard. He'll chase after it when I toss it, but then he just prances around with it in his mouth instead of bringing it back to me. I've tried calling him excitedly and running away to encourage him to follow. Using a 20-foot check cord hasn't helped much either.
1 Answer
Totally normal for a pup that age - you're actually ahead of the game starting at 8 weeks! At this stage, you want to make coming to you the most rewarding part. Try sitting on the ground and keep the throws super short, like 5-10 feet max. When he picks up the dummy, gently reel him in with the check cord while praising him, then trade him for a high-value treat the moment he gets to you. The key is ending every retrieve with him right at your feet getting rewarded. What kind of treats are you using? Some labs will work for kibble, but mine needed hot dog pieces when he was that young.
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