Achilles
Heel!
Training tips from the dog's eye view
I, myself, enjoy seeing just how much I can get away with, but you'd better believe my butt's on the floor when my mom stands up straight, looks down at me and says in her trainer voice, "Achilles, sit!"
When teaching your canine pal to come when he's called, try doing what Mom does. Every time I come when she calls, I get praised (sometimes I even get a cookie!). She also keeps me happy by letting me play after I come when I'm called. Making it fun and rewarding keeps me coming back for more.
This is kind of strange - Mom feeds me cat treats when we're working on obedience. I think it's because they're small and easy for me to eat. I love them because they taste like liver and chicken ... I'll do anything for liver!
Now, about that heel - whew, it was maybe the hardest thing Mom ever taught me. It took a while to get the hang of it because she was kinda picky. When she says, "Achilles, heel," she means, "Achilles, walk on my left side while keeping your nose even with the seam of my pants, no matter how fast or slow I walk, no matter what is going on around us, no matter if I walk circles or turn around. And always sit at my side (without being asked, mind you) when I stop moving." I'll tell you what, that was tough to learn. Now Mom's so pleased with me she tells me how wonderful I am and almost always gives me a cookie.
Of course, we save heel for competition and important situations. When we just go for a fun walk I don't have to heel ... boy that would get really boring and then I would hate to go for walks. Mom's good at telling when I've had enough work for one day and never pushes me too hard. We work really well together and I always look forward to next time.
Good luck to any of you learning "heel." Remember, with a little patience and perseverance you'll get it too!
Mom is Erin Starbuck. For more information about her obedience program at The St. Charles Humane Society, call 636-949-9918 or send e-mail: achillescgc@yahoo.com
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