recall problems- Help please!

[Roxy]

Hello,
I have a one year old lab who is very stubborn. On walks she will sit (or lie) down and refuse to move if she wants to go in another dirction to us or has seen a dog in the distance. Off the lead she has recently become a bit of a nightmare. She will walk away from dogs then 5 minutes after passing them will sudddenly turn back and race after them.
Treats do not work (doggy treats, cheese, chicken) and we have tried walking away, hidding behind trees etc.
People we meet either say she will grow out of it (when!!) or simply say their dog has always come back when called.

We did puppy training and she can sit/lie..... all the basic commands- she is now chosing when to obey and when not to.

Any advice would be appreciated!

[loopylurcherlover2000]

I don't know if it would help but to have more control you could try using a halti halter (a collar which fits over the dog's nose) or a control harness. If your dog gets distracted turn him away from the distraction and then look straight forward - not paying any attention to your dog. Do not speak and just pretend he isn't there. Once he calms down and forgets about the distraction ask him to sit or lay down for at least 20 seconds and then turn him round calmly - do not look at him or stroke him - do not give him treats because by this you are saying -well done - when your dog is not behaving well. Then walk on - praise even two steps - if your dog doesn't walk on - stand next to him and without looking at him or talking - give gentle tugs on the lead every few seconds. When praising your dog just give him a small treat - do not talk softly - as if you say 'well done - good dog - thank you for walking on' your dog will not understand what you say but how you say it. Just give him the treat - no eye contact - no talking - just pat him lightly - and progress. After a successful walk - praise your dog with a short play session.
Hope this helps - this is just what i would try - but I am not a professional or a trainer so sorry if the advice doesnt help. Good Luck!

[nick_j007]

Based on your description it sounds as though your dog has developed a stubborn streak that is working well as it is controlling the walk when out.

I would go back a number of steps and address this with the use of a long training line (10m) and to keep your dog on this for 2/3 months until you are satisfied she is following you more. In essence this is a recall issue...even when not moving. Lots and lots of recalls using the food as described below. Use the line to stop any 'running off' incidents. Serious lack of recall may also be effectively addressed by the use of a remote spray collar (not electric). Only last week I had a large hound lie down in the field and not return to the owner as knew it was back to the car time. At about 90 yards the dog just lay down and would not return. A half second puff of air under the chin and the dog just got up form that spot looking a bit surprised and we were then able to effect the recall. Job done.

At risk of self promotion I offer these on this page: Alpha Dog Behaviour, your source for training and calming needs for your dog.

For really stubborn dogs I also advise to take ALL of the dog's food out with you, and to NOT feed anything in the home. This places a much greater emphasis on the dog and food. This allows you to create a unique type of motivation in the dog. Stick with it initially as the dog will not realise that it won't be fed back at the house if it doesn't return and eat outside.

I also recommend a change of diet to a brand called Nature Diet, which dogs are mad for in my experience. This can be chopped up before you go out and gradually feed the dog over the duration of each walk.

HTH,

Nick
Alpha Dog Behaviour Home page. Welcome. Dog behaviourist and dog trainer Nick Jones MCFBA.