"Take it"

[ArtyKitty]

My 2 year old collie-labradoodle is super smart and picks up new tricks and commands so quickly. However, at puppy class she totally failed on the 'hold' command. I was told to praise for even the slightest second of holding at first, then progress to waiting longer before praising, a technique which worked with all other tricks, but she literally takes it and throws it the second she gets it in one smooth movement! A year and a bit later I've decided to revisit. I've started from scratch with a new command, 'take it' but she's doing the same thing. If she does hold it for longer, she drops it as soon as I say the command word. She can do so much, and we're always working on something new, but this one has me floored! Any tips? Thanks!

[DanielCraigsUnderpants]

can you try and play tuggy with a piece of material with her? Will she maintain the hold on that?

[ArtyKitty]

Thanks for replying! Yes she will, on her terms, but drops it as soon as I speak! Think maybe I have a Hopeless Case.

[DanielCraigsUnderpants]

No dont give up.

I would play tuggy style games with all sorts of objects, dumb bell, spoons, make it all a bit game and just reward it. Dont be tempted to bring the word in too quickly. get the behaviour established with positive associations first

[ArtyKitty]

OK, you've inspired me! I'll keep at it! Thanks!