Hi, I have a 3 year old border collie/blue heeler/ pointer mix, who is a ball of fun and energy and super smart. I would like to start her on some agility stuff to capitalize on the "bond" she has with me, and because I think we would have fun. I doubt I'd ever do any shows ( not because I don't want to, but because I live in a remote area) but I want to just have some fun and some good training on my dog. I realize she is a little older than most dogs starting in agility. She has a solid "sit" and "down" (lie down) So far I have taught her to jump up on a table when I point to it and say "table"
I guess I'm wondering what would be a good way to start? what games or tricks would be easy to start her with?
she is highly food motivated (hot dog pieces are great and mostly what we use haha)
Her "come" is not so hot, on leash she'll come to me (if the leash is on but I step away from her and call het to me dragging the leash), but off leash its hit or miss...could it be my demeanor changes when she is off leash? I've checked to make sure my cues are the same but I'm wondering if I "expect" her recall to fail on some level so it does? like she is picking up some cue I'm giving that shows a lack of confidance? is that possible?
I guess I'm wondering what would be a good way to start? what games or tricks would be easy to start her with?
she is highly food motivated (hot dog pieces are great and mostly what we use haha)
Her "come" is not so hot, on leash she'll come to me (if the leash is on but I step away from her and call het to me dragging the leash), but off leash its hit or miss...could it be my demeanor changes when she is off leash? I've checked to make sure my cues are the same but I'm wondering if I "expect" her recall to fail on some level so it does? like she is picking up some cue I'm giving that shows a lack of confidance? is that possible?