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To all who are struggling, be patient, be consistent, give high value rewards and praise. The frustrations turn into delight and confidence!
Good advice, but try telling that to Jack.
- Patience? “There are times to stay put, and what you want will come to you, and there are times to go out into the world and find such a thing for yourself.” ― Lemony Snicket. With me it was more of the latter...
- Fresh roast chicken? Not just now, thanks. I'm busy.
- Lots of praise? He looked at me like I was an idiot.
- Consistent? OK. Maybe not 100%.
Granted, some do 'get it' PDQ, but Jack is not food oriented - at all. It took at least 18 months of high level effort for the penny to drop - and only then after a couple AWOLs after which I put him on a long line for 6 months which was the single determining factor I reckon. That and he improved with age (just like me)
Although he's been great for the past couple of years (but may still stop for a sniff or a pee on the way back), it's at a trot, not a run. And I still wouldn't trust him 100%. I envy those that can. I'd say my confidence is about 90%. I've accepted that despite all the effort (and continuing), this is as good as it's going to get.