Even though high drive dogs  come well equipped for the job, they still  require motivation through a solid training foundation to stay focused. Real working dogs with pronounced drives have strong survival instincts and are hard wired to be task oriented. Their natural instincts easily lead them astray if direction and boundaries are not developed through training. Toys, food  and possibly a low rate of compulsion used to control working drives, are necessary training components that are used throughout a working dog's entire performance and service career. Without consistent training, throughout the dog's entire life, the high drive dog will not be reliable during home life, service or performance trials.

Why do we ask for so much focus?

A dog with a solid focus foundation is easier to control. He learns through "clear" training that everything good in life comes through his handler's direction. Focus is a "tool" used and developed by the handler to keep a dog's attention on the job. Handlers simply learn what is motivating for the dog and how to maintain interest while working through distracting situations and environments.

While focus on the handler has become a very important component for the competition dog, it does not necessarily prove the working ability of the dog. Tasks may still be accomplished by a dog lacking focus. However, there is a better chance, the dog will execute difficult exercises correctly, when the dog remains focused and controlled.

 

Shouldn't we build drive to get focus?

If a dog is unable to maintain focus, the handler may not be using the right motivation or clearly communicating and defining the task for the dog. Also, an often over looked issue is how the dog responds to his or her working environment. The dog that lacks focus and attention on the task may be concerned with his or her surroundings. The handler's job is to determine if the dog's focus issue is a motivational problem, lack of clear communication and/or environmental issue.

If lack of focus is simply a motivational issue, the handler must determine what motivates the dog; i.e., food, toys, praise, appropriate compulsion, or a combination, etc. The handler also should determine if he or she is being clear to the dog and if the dog really understands how to accomplish the task. Additionally, a determination should be made as to whether or not the dog has a genetic deficiency for the work; or if the dog simply requires experience in and around a particular situation to become more familiar with the surroundings.

The dog must be comfortable with his or her working environment before any motivational training takes place. Most dogs require an adaption period to new surroundings until they have experience training through a variety of new locations. Adapting the dog to unfamiliar surroundings is often as simple as, allowing the dog to observe the area until he shows signs of ease.  Once the dog is comfortable with the new surroundings, he will show willingness to work. Allowing the dog to "settle in" before asking for attention will be more effective than attempting to excite the dog with a toy to build focus. The handler will have more success by taking the time to determine what the dog really needs, rather than trying to build drive in an attempt to resolve either training or genetic issues.

 

The ideal dog for high performance work

Ideally, the working or performance dog should show confidence and a strong  task oriented nature without the handler building drive. The high-drive dog that is trained using a balance of fair training methods is the most likely candidate to show a strong willingness to work and duration of drive throughout an entire trial routine.

A well trained performance dog enjoys the team work with his handler. He does not just live for the reward (toy or ball) and he does not work simply to avoid or stop a correction. He thrives on the entire training process. Motivation to maintain focus comes from the dog that works with a handler who uses fair training methods. The dog will show anticipation and willingness to interact with his handler; because, he clearly understands the reward and repercussion process, as well as enjoys the challenge of problem solving.

 

Since high drive dogs mature at different rates,  toys and food are used to develop the drive that is already in place genetically. We've posted videos, books and training links throughout the site. We hope this information will be helpful, in offering some ideas on how to activate the drive in your puppy and to create anticipation for greater handler focus.

German Shepherd k9 Copyright

 

Related Links

 

Rewards   Dog Training Chart   Compulsion Training   Clicker Training