Week 2 Homework 

This week's homework is going to focus on how we begin to use the E-COLLAR. We will also be starting to work on the "LET'S GO" walking command.

The following videos are narrated to hopefully make things easier to absorb.

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E-COLLAR BASICS

Let's start with some basics on how to use the e-collar:

Equipment basics - charge it, turn it on and off...etc.

How to fit the e-collar.

How we use the e-collar.

Please keep in mind: The e-collar is just a piece of training equipment used to help us communicate more clearly and concisely with your dog. It's used in conjunction with many other techniques we are using. With some time and practice, it can become a great asset for you and your dog's relationship. Either for helping in their obedience, manners or even behavioral issues you are dealing with. Once you get used to operating it, it's going to make things easier for you!

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ENGAGEMENT WITH THE E-COLLAR

Next, please watch this video where Joe talks about how we are going to begin using the e-collar.

  • Getting engagement with the e-collar - tap and your dog checks in to come back to "homebase" (you).

*Notice how we are pairing tapping the e-collar with FOOD rewards! This means they understand awesome things happen when they follow what the e-collar "tells" them.

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BEGINNING LOOSE LEASH WALKING WITH THE E-COLLAR

Lastly, we’ll show you in this video how to start to implement the e-collar into leash etiquette and walking skills, "Let's go" with the e-collar - tap and turns with your dog:

***I'm using my front camera here, so the video is inverted. It looks like my dog is on my right, but she is actually on my left. Just a reminder!***

  • “LET’S GO” - means "walk with me" - by my LEFT side (unless otherwise specified).

  • They will need to walk by your left side until YOU give them permission to be released from command. This will be the word "FREE" with a tap tap of your HAND on their shoulder.

  • Imagine an invisible box next to your left side - Your pup needs to stay in that box during the “LET’S GO” command. They can leave the box when you tell them “FREE.”

STARTING WALKING TIPS:

  1. Tap your button (the upper side button) on the e-collar as you say "Lets Go"

  2. Start walking with your pup

  3. You will dictate the pace of the walk - not your dog

    IF 

  4. They go ahead of you - you will start that cadenced tapping on your remote. tap...tap...tap....
    and you will do an about face turn to your right - walking the opposite way. The cadenced tapping on the remote stops when they catch back up to you in the correct position (back in that invisible box on your left side)

    IF

  5. They go too far to your left or behind you - you will start the cadenced tapping....tap..tap...tap....until they catch back up or re-enter that invisible box on your left side.

    WHEN THEY ARE DOING WELL

  6. Feel free to give verbal praise!  -and/or-  Use your duration marker "GOOD" and give some "room service" food right to their mouth. Try to give the food along your left side - even with your body. (We don't want to give food out in front of us)

HOW TO HANDLE YOUR EQUIPMENT WHILE WALKING:

Some suggestions for how to hold your leash & e-collar when walking outside:

(Your pup will be walking on your left side)

RIGHT HAND

  • Put the looped end of the leash around your right wrist. You can also wrap a little extra of the leash around your right hand to help secure it better (optional). Your E-collar is also in your right hand.

  • Your leash will run across the front of your body

LEFT HAND

  • Your left hand will be used to give food rewards to your pup while walking. You should keep some food/treats somewhere on your person.  A treat pouch on your left side or in a left pocket.  EASILY ACCESSIBLE AND HIDDEN FOOD will be very helpful to the training process.

    AND

  • Your left hand will ALSO be used to hold the leash on the other side of your body (when needed). It can help control/maneuver your pup at times.

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IMPORTANT TIPS:


Not mentioned in the videos are the "levels" on the e collar.

Do not worry about your levels, going too high...etc. We always start at lower levels, and if you clearly see your pup is not responding to what you're asking - STOP and go up a level or two, then try again. Just be incremental! You will NOT hurt them with this.

Over these first couple weeks, you'll be able to find general "averages" that they will be at:

  • ex: inside with lower distractions they are between 10-15 . Outside or when more excited they're between a 15-25. (This is just an example, not specific to your dog)

Just remember we will always continue to let them know when they are doing well and reward appropriately! On the walks we are saying "GOOD" and giving them food. Food is going to continue to be key with all our training!!!

Please keep in mind Joe is using the front of his camera so things are inverted. It looks like his dog is on his right side, but she's really on his left when they are walking! "Let's go" means your dog will be on your LEFT!