April 11 2008
Retrieving and Puppies
I have just read this excerpt on the Ducks Unlimited site and would like to share it.
I have been trying to communicate this to new puppy owners but am not nearly as clear as Mike Stewart of Wildrose Kennels (specializing in Labradors).
I usually advise: "even if your pup brings you a brand new Cole Haan shoe (to the tune of $150 each!), pet him up and put the shoe and everything else you care about out of the pup's reach. etc.
But I really like the way Mike writes this.
Mike Stewart writes:
Delivery to Hand Part I
Part I
The Ounce of Prevention:
It is far better to never let inappropriate behaviors begin, if possible, in your pup relative to carrying objects in his mouth. A well-bred retriever pup will show natural tendencies to carry and hold objects. It is up to owners to not do anything to discourage this in a young pup. Understand that developing good delivery and a soft mouth in your retriever begins the day your puppy joins your home.
If the pup picks up and carries any item that is not detrimental to safety, despite its value, encourage him to bring it to you. Take it away slowly without scolding and never pursue the pup. You want the pup to want to come to you with his newfound prize. If you don't want him to carry any specific items, limit accessibility. Remind the whole family of these conditions. If an object is of no consequence, such as a leaf or a stick, allow the puppy to continue to carry it as long as he likes.
A Few Other Reminders:
No chew toys of plastic or cloth. How will the pup distinguish them when introduced to dummies?
No chasing pup with objects in his mouth or playing tug-of-war.
Never correct a pup for anything with an object in his mouth. Carrying objects should be pleasurable.
Likewise coming to you should be a pleasurable experience for the pup. Never call him to you for a correction.
When retrieving use small, lightweight canvas or fire-hose bumpers. A knotted sock will do. Only toss retrieves in confined areas like the hallway to encourage direct returns.
When the pup is tired, hot, and panting, don't toss bumpers.
Avoid repetitive, meaningless retrieves that extend to the point of boredom. The pup will pursue other interests or make a toy out of the bumper
Never snatch anything from a pup's mouth. Gently encourage a release despite your frustration. Tell everyone!
Children should be supervised when playing with the pup and keep a close eye on visiting friends. Their misguided interaction may play havoc.
Don't put your pup on birds too early. One mishap could make quite an impact.
Early Puppy retrieves:
When making 2 to 3 early retrieves per day, crouch down or sit on the floor in a confined area to encourage puppy to come back to you. Upon return, with the bumper, get the pup close into your body. Don't immediately take the dummy away. Let him keep it and share it with you as you lavish praise. Stroke pup under the chin and chest to encourage the hold. Don't worry about how the pup presents for delivery. Stylish delivery will come later. Gently take the dummy and occasionally immediately give it back if he will accept it. Continue the praise. Share the prize. Build the trust while encouraging natural hold. Use the same methods for early retrieving outdoors.