Bugging

Ever have this problem? It sure can grind a training session to a halt. When I run into a dog that is bugging, the first thing I want to do is figure out the cause. Alot of the time it may be just from pushing too hard or doing to many reps. in a row.
I had a dog that Started bugging when given marks. I quit the session on marks right there. After letting the dog do a little romping around, I whistled for a remote sit. The dog was also “bugging on the remote sit. I knew then that the problem wasn’t just on marks, it seemed to be defiance in every situation.
Within a few training sessions I overcame the bugging issue. I think the dog was bored. First, I went back and refreshed basic obedience. Next I moved to lining and casting and blinds. After a few short sessions the bugging issue was solved and I went back to the marking drill.
If you have encountered “bugging” in your training- how did you correct it?

Don, I believe I know what you mean but could you define/explain bugging?

BUGGING: A dog that, while attempting to be lined up by the handler, refuses to look out at the blind or marked retrieve. This is a type of avoidance on the part of the dog. When the dog looks away to avoid the cast or looks away to avoid being sent.

Another thing I do is to put the dog on a long check cord and then go walking. I do this in an open field to avoid getting the cord tangled. When the dog is out in fron tof me and moving, I will step on the cord. After it stops the dog, they will sooner or later turn to look at you. I then move then in another direction. This is more for keeping the dog in range but I found that they soon look to you for direction when they are stopped. It may not be the fastest method but it has helped when I have a dog bugging.

I’ve seen happen while teaching overs. Bugging while baseball training normally comes from working 1st and 3rd base too often. Always run at least twice as many retrieves to second base when teaching overs.

Ok Don, it makes sense now.