wow, a training question! - Page 2

Like anything, foundation training sets the stage for everything.

I start with two toy from the beginning, then incorperate it into bitework. I have changed my stance on the "carry" and "claming the grip" on dead prey. If you use two sleeves, it is the same concept. The dog will let go of the one that was slipped, to play or engage the helper again.

Foundation is the key.

I think it depends on the puppy and his current abilities. IF he is a alligator and not hectic then you can probably be safe to teach the out on him. If he is easily distracted and not biting full and calm consistantly then I would probably wait.

Don maybe he needs to be outed and then platz before he is released? He sounds like a strong dominant type. You are speaking about OB right? 

Julie

I always start working the Out early with my pups, but that does not mean using unnecessary force or any of that crap.  Making it part of the game seems to keep it fun for the youngun's.  No one size fits all solution though.  My husband's Mali was a real demon pup right out of the box and I had to handle her differently than I had any other dog than I had owned.  She's a harder dog than any male I've had, so I had to adapt to her temperament.

To those that choose to wait, for fear of squelching drive or what not, that could still work, but I don't see the benefits myself.  I've seen some folks have to hammer their dogs to get a clean out, and I really don't want to turn training into a pissing contest with an adolescent dog. 

On the other hand, I've seen some folks who make the Out without pressure with young pups.  Makes life easier in the long run I would think.  To each his own...

Yvette

If the puppy has such strong drive that it won't out I don't think you have to worry about teaching him an out at a young age.  As soon as our puppies grip well on a tug, they learn to out. I find being made to let go builds their anticipation of getting the tug back, when done fairly.

I do teach the out as pups, but not upset if they don't. I make sure the second they release I make attraction and throw the tug/toy again quickly so they learn that outing just starts the game over. Sooner or later they get tired and I put the toy away.

Hope this helps.

SS

shelly -ya beat me to it i personally prefer to distract pups with another toy/treat