RE: How do I teach my lab to retrieve--and drop?
Dennis,
When I started my dogs on retrieving, and the word "come", I put a long lead on them and tossed something they really wanted out about 10-15 feet. I would say, "back" and send the pup out...once the pup picked up the treasure, I would say the word, "come" and pull them back in with the lead and continue to say, "come" until they were all the way back in. Once back with the toy, I would say, "leave it" (insert your own word here) and take the toy from their mouths. Giving them a little "nibble treat" of some kind each time.
It didn't take long for them to start to understand that they were supposed to go out and get the toy, bring it back, and drop it when I said, "leave it". Once they have the basics down, you can start doing it without the lead, and move on to feathered things.
They will do anything for "treats" don'tcha know...lol
Give it a try, it might work just as easily for you too.
Juls
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