FitPaws

[SKNerissa]

So I got Riley a FitPaws Fit Bone for Christmas. The problem is that he's a little too enthusiastic about it. He jumps about and climbs all over it barking at the top of his lungs. The only time he's quiet is if I let him nibble at a treat while moving it so he gets into positions. Then he is so focused on the treat he is oblivious to what his body is doing and thus any words I attach to the position. So I guess our first and most difficult objective will be to focus quietly when the equipment comes out. I hope to get him the donut or peanut for his birthday in March but unless he can calm down I won't be comfortable with having him work higher off the ground. Any suggestions would be appreciated

 

[Jubjub81]

When I'm working with my sheltie on fit paws equipment I tend to lure a lot with food. Because he also gets very excited when the equipment come out (it means food ) and he starts offering everything he knows.
I find that I actually have more control over his body in most exercises when his nose is glued to my hand and some exercise a lure is the only way that will do it properly (ex. his normal down vs. a folding down)
Sometimes we will learn behaviours on something plain that does not have value for it before we transfer it to the fitpaws equipment. For example he learned to pivot on a bowl before we tried on fitpaws, same with several other behaviours.
Also remember to reward them for self control around the equipment, like staying in a down while you get ready A good down his nice so you can take a quick break to load up on treats again.
Another suggestion is, if he is being a totally loud mouth jerk and not listening, simply pick up the equipment and walk away without saying anything and try again later. Saves you from accidentally rewarding those behaviors.
Last thing is maybe look into Susan Garrett's "its your choice". I found it really help with my dog so he would stop focusing on the treat so much, and actually be thoughtful about what he was doing. (we really love this game, it translates well in to many things)

I really hope something I've written helps, let me know if I need to clarify anything