Yakov, that could be an option - training where there's not a history of toy play. But I think that might be avoiding the issue versus working through it. It's a good thing for a dog to learn to accept what's available in the work. I think Freddie can do it! Great to see the enthusiasm for toy!
Solid sit-stay. You can either reward in place or break out as you did. Looks like you had a moment where you (or Freddie) weren't sure which one you were going to do!
Loving the work from the middle man! He looks happy and apt there.
Really nice head position at 1:32! And your technical skills look great, Yakov - reward placement, behind the back reload, etc.
I like how you handled the transition at the 2:00 mark. I like it because you used less words and let him follow you (and the hand more). Sometimes we can talk too much, and not allow our dog to 'choose' or show as much of themselves. Look for moments in the work where he really pushes and makes choices.
Your fast movement away from the sit-stay seems to pull him out of position. No problem, you handle the reset well. But make a mental note to train that picture more in the future.
I love that he loves his ball - that's the energy we want!
Here's a thought, Yakov: at the 2:50 mark you begin working that focus again. You ultimately reward with ball - no problem. But within this rep you say "freddie, look" quite a lot, even when he's already looking at you. i think you can fade some of this feedback. In fact, you might try not saying anything at all so that you can see where his choices and understanding is aside from your input. It's a great experiment to see how much of the work he does on his own.
Love that middle work, Yakov!!! Great job there!
Here's an overarching thought:
I think you need to reward more and with more 'jackpot style' rewards. So instead of one piece of food, give multiple. And perhaps accept less duration in the work right now. My fear is that he loses motivation at this point with the longer reps and the smaller rewards. In the early learning stages, we ask for very little and pay handsomely. I know you two have been working on this stuff for awhile now, and that Freddie is no puppy, but in the heeling, motivation is everything, and I think Freddie could use a little more juice.
It will be especially important to thicken the reward schedule as you reduce some of the word helps you are using. Mark and reward generously, and watch for Freddie to make choices and problem solve a little more without so much direction.
Does that make sense, yakov?
Other than that, you've got some great pieces in place!
