Difficulty training new dog

Question
About 3 months ago my family and I went to a shelter and resued a mixed breed dog. No one new the mix but we believe that there is some hound (based on look and bark). As is usually the case everyone looses interest after awhile and I end up taking care of the dog most of the time. Of course I always end up falling for the critter big time. The dog is pampered as were all our dogs. I've taken 'Bella' to a professional trainer for about 8 weeks now. She seems very smart but also seems to have a serious case of ADD. When we are at the trainer all she wants to do play with the other dogs. The other puppies all seem to settle in but not Bella. When I train at home she is the same way just with everything else... corn stalks, air planes... I realize she is just a pup (6 months old) but how can I train her if she doesn't pay attention? Even food won't attract her attention! That just blows my mind. I think the trainer is loosing patience with her but still wants our money. When she pays attention she does very well! Help... at the end of my rope. How do I get the dog to pay attention atleast some of the time?

Answer
Hi Jeff,

It can help to give your dog a good run, or some other form of exercise before the obedience class. It will take the edge off of her boundless energy, so maybe she'll be better able to pay attention in class.

If your dog isn't interested in the treats, make sure you're using something she really likes, even if it is something you wouldn't normally give her. Ante up the treats, and bring "higher value" treats to class. Bits of hot dog, freeze dried liver, cheese, etc. The more memorable the better, and they should only be tiny pieces. Try a variety of treats to figure out what kinds of things work for her, and vary what you use from class to class.

Between classes start practicing with her somewhere other than at home. Start easy, on a quiet street corner or empty park. Gradually build up to more crowded, noisy, busy places. She'll learn soon enough that the most rewarding thing is listening to you (thanks to the treats).

You didn't say how many other dogs are in the class. Large class sizes are distracting. Try to see if your school has a smaller class available and transfer into that one.

At home, you can practice "watch me" command. Put a treat in your mouth and get her to watch you. Say "watch me". After say 5 seconds, praise and drop treat from you mouth to her as a reward. Gradually build up the time she "watches" you and only you. Introduce distractions. It takes time, just be consistent and praise her when she complies.

Best of luck,
Patti