Training my ACD to fetch/retrieve...

bquilla

I've recently (2 months ago) acquired (through rescue) a beautiful 3 year-old Australian cattle dog. She was relinquished to the rescue because of issues with the stock. So no more farms for her. Naturally, she has a boat-load of energy, which is expended by chasing dogs who are in-turn chasing balls. My ACD has ZERO interest in the ball; just the other pups.

So I'd like to get her retrieving, so she can run-off some of her energy, without the need for other dogs to herd/chase. I've read a bit about this, but it all involves toys and treats; Neither of which she cares for. Treats, maybe, but only inside. As soon as she's outside, her attention turns elsewhere. It could be a piece of bacon and she wouldn't care. Toys are the same way; Doesn't even look at them.

Long-winded, I'm sorry! So what would be a good way to get her interested in the ball/object being thrown? She has had great training, (but apparently only in herding stock) so I think she's a good learner.

My last dog was a Lab, and retrieving was all he did; No training involved. So I'm looking for help with this one. Thank you!

Brian.

Criosphynx

this is how you backchain a retreive.

Keepers - Shirley's Retieve

she is uninterested outside because she is overstimulated. You would teach this inside, in a boring room first. Once you've had her longer and have done som' training, she will hopefully be more responsive outdoors.

bquilla

Note to self: Don't post before going on holiday.

Thanks for the help. The link posted is a tad confusing. Are clickers really the best way to go about this?

Criosphynx

you can use your voice if you like. Most people use "YES!" or "good!" as a verbal marker....but the dogs do learn faster if you use a clicker, absolutely

pawsitiveside

I had a dog who loved his ball, but hated his frisbee. I had a dog who loved a frisbee but hated the ball. Well, he didn't hate the ball, he just didn't see much use in it. Maybe you could try some frisbee training. You'll have to get her used to the frisbee first. You can usually do this by using the frisbee as her food bowl for a few days to a few weeks. Trust me, she'll learn to love it! From there, follow this tutorial:

YouTube - How to train your dog to catch a Frisbee

If that doesn't work, there's always fox on a stick! Since she loves chasing, she'd probably love fox on a stick or rope!