Introducing the Whistle

The whistle is going to become the main method of recall for Elliot in the future on the trial field. Here I’m working it into our drive building game. While Elliot is not paying attention to me I blow the whistle, move in the opposite direction of him, and show him the ball. I take my time to let him enjoy the play session, possess the ball, and let Elliot feel like the strongest dog in the world. Through this game Elliot is building drive for the ball, possession, confidence, and strengthening our relationship through play.

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Another game I like to play that is not shown in the video and introduces the whistle is to first ask a club member or trusted friend to hold your puppy. Move away from your puppy quickly while making him or her excited with your voice and a toy or food. When your puppy is ready to burst with excitement, blow the whistle and let your puppy run to you and reward him or her with the toy or treats. There is no need to ask the puppy for a front or sit or anything like that in this game as it’s just to build excitement to come to you and hear the whistle in an interactive way