So I am of the idea that unlimited retrieve games with my new pup are not so good if I have plans to train him as a hunter. The idea being that if he gets "bored" and sloppy with the fun retrieves it makes the reinforcement of proper retrieving during formal training that much harder. Makes sense to me. Also avoiding tug-of-war games to avoid moth problems etc... is part of the plan.
But, what CAN I play with the little monster? WE do a little roughhousing and he chases the kids around (they are under orders to NOT chase him so he doesn't think it's fun to run from me). But he's clearly in need of some other things to occupy himself (besides eating every rock in the yard followed with wood chasers).
Anyone have any ideas? Things to burn off energy when not formally training and won't lead to bad habits a field dog needs trained out of him later.
Thanks for the help.
Steve
But, what CAN I play with the little monster? WE do a little roughhousing and he chases the kids around (they are under orders to NOT chase him so he doesn't think it's fun to run from me). But he's clearly in need of some other things to occupy himself (besides eating every rock in the yard followed with wood chasers).
Anyone have any ideas? Things to burn off energy when not formally training and won't lead to bad habits a field dog needs trained out of him later.
Thanks for the help.
Steve