QuestionHi there, first a little history about Laz that I think may be of importance. He came from Alberta, and was in about 10 foster homes before we brought him in to share our home. He is about 31/2 years old and we've had him since November '06. We go to the off-leash dog park nearly every day, and when we first got him, we played fetch and he retrieved and dropped very well. He is a very smart dog, but it is getting to the point where he might drop the ball twice (or not at all unless it's by accident!) in a one hour play session. It is very frustrating because he is always at my feet doing a downward dog position and just chews on his ball. He really wants to play and starts whining because we are not playing, but I cannot just rip the ball out of his mouth!
We have a 2 1/2 year old beagle that isn't toy driven but sometimes steals the ball from Laz just so he will chase him, I am thinking that Laz is getting overprotective of his toys and that is why he isn't dropping. I have tried every word I can think of (drop used to work) and in every language I know but to no avail. I really enjoy playing with him but end up leaving the park frustrated and not looking forward to tomorrow's play session. Any advice short of taking him to obedience?
AnswerHello Jay,
I would seriously work on the "take-it" and "give" commands. In this way you are regaining control over the toys which should be shared by both. These commands, however, require you to actually take the object out of his mouth or place it back into his mouth. No dropping or chewing allowed.
Thank you for your question.
Ann Jordan
Border Collie Coach
