Quote Originally Posted by borzoimom
Being a little grabby is a common problem with a really good treat. Keep up with the " take it easy" but shorten it- and draw it out slow and calm.. Like " eeeeeeassssy...."..If you trust him not to get upset at having something momentarily with held from him- if he doesnt heed it- make a fist cupping it in your hand and roll your hand over. As he slows his head like ' where it go mom" slowly open your hand back up.. He will quickly learn- ' if I come in too fast- it will disappear...'...
We have to do this with Zubin and Femka once in a while. Femkas problem is she doesnt want another dog to get her cookie. We also say the names to give treats- so each dog knows who it is for. But she- she will try to grab it- I cup it back into my hand- say eaaaasssssssy and try again- Usually about once a month with her I have to do this.
Also when you set the treat up- keep your voice calm.. Instead of " YOU WANT YOUR TREAT?????? TIME FOR YOUR MEDICINE- YOU WANT SOME CHEESE..." etc.. Just get up- get the treat and talk softly so as not to raise the anxiety levels of ' am I really going to get something' etc...
Phewww....I am doing it right then!! I will hold the cheese inside my hand so he can only get to a little at a time, and has to be nice about it. I guess I just need to work more, with it. this is how I taught duke, and he does great with taking things nice.