H&C

6
Jul
2010

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Help! I need to train my young Labrador!

Labrador puppies have lots of energy and need training

"My partner and I are having a few problems with training our lab, as this is our first dog and he is quite a handful with abundant energy. We can't seem to get him to come back to us when off the lead; he comes back but only when he wants to. We have tried all sorts of things such as getting him to come back and giving him treats for being good several times before putting lead on him, but he is so easily distracted it is not very effective. Also, he barks, growls and jumps up at least once a day at one or both of us which I am starting to find a bit intimidating and obviously I do not want the dog to sense my apprehension, but am not sure how to handle this. Breeder says he just wants to play but he looks pretty scary to me and she has not actually seen him in action. Any advice would be greatly appreciated as he is a lovely dog but we need training for his sake and ours as I realise we are the problem. Many thanks, Helen."

H&C blogger and gundog expert Howard Kirby replies: "Hi Helen, most of the issues that you are having with your young Labrador could be improved by working on his basic obedience. Teaching a young, energetic and atheletic dog can be tricky, especially as he is your first dog. The most important thing you should do is arrange to see a good dog trainer.

Seeing a professional who comes on recommendation and has a track record is likely to cost money but if you choose the right trainer it will be money well spent.

In the meantime, if possible exercise him on a long line in areas were he is likely to be distracted and then unlikely to want to come back to you. If you are able to find a small fenced garden or paddock then you can let him off the lead to burn off some of his energy. This will be a short term solution and can be used alongside a training plan.

Heelwork, stay, recall, fetch perhaps some clicker work to improve his focus on you are the areas of basic training that we would recommend you focus on. Your trainer will help you to build on your own skills, this will give you the skills to better communicate with your dog, you will then be able to show him which of his behaviours that you like and thoose that you disapprove of and will not tolerate.

If you are able to get to Mullenscote Dog Training Centre then of course I would be delighted to help you, keep in touch and let us know your thoughts and any progress that you make.

Howard."