New dog

[stellar847]

I recently adopted a 14 month old German Shepard. I am having a great time training him. He learns really fast. The only problem is that I can't get him to do anything unless I have a treat or a toy or something to bribe him with. If I have something and say sit instantly he sits, but if I don't and I need him to sit I have to push his backside down. i really want him to obey even if I don't have a treat...and suggestions?

[Deuce]

Random reward schedule. Start by making him do more than one thing before he gets the treat. If he has to sit and lie down before he gets the treat (which he can see), then he's learning to do at least one thing without immediate reward. Expand on that to 3 cues, 4 cues, etc.

Clicker training might help too. Many people are pleased by the association the dog forms with the sound = good. That helps shape more complicated behaviors and might help.

[Lyka_01]

Deuce, I think that's a nice idea...I will apply that to my dog too...However, he is not as obedient as stellar dog...but I think giving a reward will work to him...

[BrianP]

Hey Lyka,

I just checked out your heated beds for pets site, looks like a great idea.

Hope that's going well for ya.

Brian

[samaria]

Originally Posted by Deuce

Random reward schedule. Start by making him do more than one thing before he gets the treat. If he has to sit and lie down before he gets the treat , then he's learning to do at least one thing without immediate reward. Expand on that to 3 cues, 4 cues, etc.

Clicker training might help too. Many people are pleased by the association the dog forms with the sound = good. That helps shape more complicated behaviors and might help.

I am agree with Deuce.
Do like this.