I think I have the only retriever that doesn't like to retrieve....

I have had Gunner for a week now, so as of Saturday, he is 7 weeks old. Working on potty training and not biting people.
Have tried walking on loose leash - doesn't seem to want to go with me. Will run without me holding the leash because he thinks he stole something.

Will sometimes chase something thrown, but not all the time and never brings it back.

I watched my Duck Dog training video last night, and according to it, I may be expecting too much at this age.
What are your thoughts? and experiences?

I have trained pups before, but nothing more than basic obedience - never gun dog. So, I read these posts and watch these shows about 10 month olds, and 1 year olds winning championships, etc., etc. I don't want Gunner to compete, but I do want an obedient dog that knows how to hunt.

So, do I need to back off and wait a few more weeks, or what?

Frustrated with him right now, so any help is appreciated.

Play, play, play...he's just a kid. Read Water Dog by Richard Wolters, he breaks down training w/the age of the dog.
Enjoy the little bugger!

Agreed. Water Dog is a good basic reference. It'll actually teach everything that most people need.

Your pup is young. Your main focus right now should be to keep him from trying to destroy your home and everything in it. Get in a short hallway and throw a rolled up sock. Let him go get it. In a hallway, he'll have to come back to you. These little "working sessions" should be very short. Just a couple of throws. Leave him wanting more. That'll build his desire.

He'll come around. Just be patient.

Slow down. Enjoy your puppy.

Thanks guys- I will take this advice and have some fun with him tonight and tomorrow - Holiday!!

I probably wouldn't be as frustrated if I could get a full night sleep. I know I will be able to in a few weeks, but man it's rough. It's been a long-long-long time since I have had a baby in the house. I am getting too old for this.

Have some fun and get to know him and he get to know you and then the training will come alot easier.

Water dog x3

Book has been ordered and is shipped. Thanks.

I also feel better now working with him....or not working with him. For now, we are just playing and running around the yard. Hell - he won't even respond to his name yet. Wait, is that unusual?

I'm far from an expert, but your puppy is probably trying to figure out where the heck he is right now. He's been pulled from his mom and siblings quickly (some will probably consider too early since you had him at 6 weeks).

I would think responding to his name will come in another week or so. He's still a baby, so just keep it all fun for now and take him everywhere with you.

Great lookin puppy BTW.

Thanks - I think he's very cute and good stature. I think he has the qualities there, I just get impatient.
And you are right, as I did more research he should be coming to me this weekend - but this was the breeder's (if you can call them that) first litter, so there was a lot they didn't know. Like to get the dew claws removed at birth.
Anyway, we are really enjoying having Gunner (especially now that we are getting some sleep) and he will be a special dog, either way - hunter or not.

Kimber still has her dew claws as well. So far, it hasn't hindered her at all. Most will tell you not to worry about them unless they do start getting in the way.

Water Dog?? Really??

How about "Sound Beginnings" by Jackie Mertens and the Bill Hillman DVD set???

Retriever training has come so much farther since "Water Dog".

Thank goodness,,,,

Ange

I agree with Angie - get the Hillman video. It's well worth the money.

For the field trialers, and trainersor anyone trying to get more advanced, I would definitely agree. Water dog is just ...simple. It will get you a perfectly capable hunter in one year with a first time trainer.

As a first time trainer, with a 6.5 month old retriever, I am amazed at where we are in the process, and while other resources were utilized, water dog gave me a great program.

I am fond of Waterdog myself. It just gives you the basics to build upon.

For the field trialers, and trainersor anyone trying to get more advanced, I would definitely agree. Water dog is just ...simple. It will get you a perfectly capable hunter in one year with a first time trainer.

As a first time trainer, with a 6.5 month old retriever, I am amazed at where we are in the process, and while other resources were utilized, water dog gave me a great program.

**This is all I am looking for. This is my first duck dog so all I want is a obedient, and capable hunter. I am not going to be doing competitions or anything like that.
Hell, I would probably be ok if he didn't retrieve every time - we are not talking about a $3000 dog.

Thanks for all of your help

BTY - he's sick right now because he got something in his eye that aggravated it. Vet gave me some ointment that has a steriod in it, which apparently has screwed up his system. He's peeing every 3 minutes, can't hold it at all and either has stomach cramps or his but is sore from the diarhea.

Books and DVD’s are great but just remember they are just guides.No one on earth can tell you what your dogs up to that is not looking at them in person..If you expect your pup to follow these to the letter your going to be very confused and disappointed..All dogs progress at their own pace if you try to force them to follow Joe blows pups progression your in for a fall..At that age you should try to bring out the pups true drive and personality not the books..Try play retrieves (If your trying to steady pup they will burn out FAST) I bet you will see a huge difference..