Training the Retrieve

with Michael Ellis - Ver 2018

80 Videos | 3 & 1/2 Hours of Content

Over the last 30+ years, the methods used to train dogs to retrieve have been evolving. Traditionally, most dogs were taught to retrieve certain objects through the “Force Fetch” method, which relies heavily on negative reinforcement (pressure) to teach the behavior. While many dogs were able to get through this process, it was not the most pleasant experience for the dog (or the trainer). Many dogs wouldn’t bounce back from the continuous stress of the process and would eventually be ‘washed’ from training programs. When marker training started to gain popularity, trainers began teaching the retrieve in a manner that required no pressure and the goal was that 100% of the retrieve would be trained with rewards.

The 2018 release of Training the Retrieve with Michael Ellis is unique in that it not only teaches you the entire process of training a formal retrieve with the use of reward-based training techniques, but Michael also explains and demonstrates in detail, how and when to properly utilize pressure-based techniques in the retrieve if the trainer finds it necessary. Training the Retrieve with Michael Ellis is an excellent resource for anyone wishing to train a formal retrieve, whether it be for a sport or competition obedience dog, a service dog, hunting dog, or if you simply want to train your dog to get a beer from the fridge. This course will cover all of the foundational skills needed to train the formal retrieve as well as some common challenges trainers may face and techniques to troubleshoot those challenges. We’ve designed this course to accommodate a wide range of skill levels for both trainers and dogs with no prior experience is necessary to start this work.