[Jhagman]

This is Sandy Pope from AK9 (Appalachian Working K9s) in Maynardville TN teaching Kaleesi, a very rambunctious 4 month old how to focus and "watch me" in the eyes! (My phone camera isn't great, but you can see the focus on the pup.)

She is trying to teach me how use my tone of voice and treat placement to hold Kaleesi's attention. My timing was off, and timing is everything.

Biggest thing I learned today was that I was letting her "release" right when she gets treat. I need have her hold the position, and then give the "OK!" without the treat. This isn't training for Kaleesi, it's training for me. (I've got so much to learn.)

 

[coco77]

Having a 4 month old pup also, these are very inspiring pictures! Thank you for sharing!

 

[Jhagman]

I wish you could hear how soft-spoken she is, and the pup is just mesmerized by her.

She uses phrases like "mew-mew" in a high pitched squeaky voice, to get her attention back, if her eyes wander. She also says, "uh-uh," "no ma'am" in a soft non-judgment, non scary way.

and Kaleesi responds, knows that she is not pleasing her.

Then when she does stare at Sandy's eyes, she gushes softly, "yes...yes....good watch"...

All the while, the treat is put right between Sandy's eyes...

I'm unlearning the old Alpha method, and learning this positive based training. It's especially important for a dog you're putting into Schutzhund training, which I hope to do with Kaleesi.

Love to see a picture of your 4 month old. Kaleesi has 1 ear that won't stand yet, is your pup free of bandages yet?