introducing a runner

Question
I have a mix German shepherd 4 month old huge puppy who i am trying to introduce a runner in the backyard. She hates to be on it and she cries the whole time. Any suggestions? Thank you.

Answer
What are you trying to do on the runner?  We use the thick rubber runners for training obedience and have the owners walk so they are both on the runner, and the dog is taught to not go on the bare concrete unless told. This gets the dog to stay with the owner until we tell it to go elsewhere. If the runner is over grass, it may be too soft a touch and feels unstable to the dog. If so, start with the runner on concrete or other hard surface. Walk on th erunner with the dog so it sees you are not cautious or reluctant to walk on it.

Regards,

Henry Ruhwiedel
www.dogkennel.org