I am new to the site. I am looking for some advice. I have a 5 month old wachtelhund (German spaniel). I know...a what
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He has been progressing very well. Since he was 3 months old he has been sitting at heal until released on thrown bumpers. He retrieves to hand, and will "come" and "sit" to the whistle, even at a distance. I can even stop him on the retrieve and sit him at a distance, while he holds the bumper or bird. I have been quite pleased with his progress. Now for the problem...
Over the last week or two, I have noticed that he ducks his head once he returns with the bumper. He will not drop it nor chew it, but he lowers his head rather than placing it in my hand. I know that this is a purposeful, distraction just like looking around when he gets bored of following commands. He is otherwise very well behaved, though, and I am convinced that he knows who the alpha is in our relationship.
I have tried holding my hand out while and making him continue to hold the bumper, but this doesn't seem to do it. I have also been lifting his chin prior to giving the "drop" command which has seemed to help a little. Have any of you experienced this and overcome this with your own dogs?
Thanks,
Brady