Hi all, At the training class on Saturday we were shown a new command; Back = encourage the dog to move backwards away from you. I have practised this command once since that session and before receiving the Grade One gundog training book (yesterday). I notice from the book that Back is a gundog command. How quickly will Harvey pick up the change if I now switch to using Reverse for the class command (thereby leaving Back for gundog training)? Thanks.
Re: Changing a previously used command Were you using a hand signal for the class version? If so, just switch to using the new word with the old hand signal. Consider using a different hand signal for the gundog training as well as a different word. Harvey is very likely to be more tuned into the hand signal than the verbal cue. If you use an open hand for the obedience class use a closed fist for gundog work, for example.
Re: Changing a previously used command Experts will be along shortly, but seems to me like an over complication to try for two commands that mean the same thing. I use back in the field with Lady when she's working and looking at me and I want her to move away from me in the opposite direction. I also use it in play when we are doing a few blind retrieves with a tennis ball. Can't immediately think of any other applications, but can't see why back couldn't be used in other circumstances as well rather than two words for the same thing.
Re: Changing a previously used command You can use any word you like for the exercise in your class, even bananas So think of a word that suits that action and use that instead of 'back'. I would use a hand signal with open palm for the gundog 'back' as your dog needs to see this at a distance.
Re: Changing a previously used command It is useful to have two different cues if your standards are going to be different in two different contexts. Sometimes you want to keep one cue 'pure' and only for your use while the other one is for family use, for example.
Re: Changing a previously used command I use the hand signal and the command "Fetch" because it means more to me than the dog! I don't think the actual word is significant provided you are consistent. Roger
