re: Need some advice on training my lab

I’ve always used place command to mean don’t leave that bed, or don’t leave that area you are on, like an elevated stand in flooded timber. He doesn’t have to sit on it, he just can’t leave it. Sit is sit, and I agree that he will remain sitting until told so.

How many bumpers are you throwing and refusing him to retrieve? I went through about a period, on and off, of denying my dog bumpers. Put him at sit, or put him at place, and throw 10 bumpers and walked and retrieved every one myself. That training would then be over and we would practice walking at heel, or whatever else you’re working on. Denying the bumper reward is a good way to reinforce commands and teach patience.

I never used an e-collar, but I’m not opposed to it, if done correctly. I also never force fetch trained my dog and she would retrieve anything, including squirrels.

At the end of the day, you have to ask yourself, do you want a family dog that can pick up your birds, or do you want a hardcore working dog? There is a stark difference between the two. Most hardcore working dogs that have been through rigorous training regimes, kept in a trainers kennel for months on end, and are worth thousands of dollars, do not make great pets. Just something to consider.