Question:he is very stubborn, and lacks sometimes in speed and enthusiasm. What can I do to make it more fun?
Answers:
For starters, drop the 'how to make it more fun' goal. 'Fun' is discovered through experience. What you need to do is motivate him to experience the fun.
If you came to me with this, I would put you into a Novice level obedience class, followed by an Open level class. The agility 'work' would be weaved into the fabric of the training along the way.
Too many give up on organized play because they say the dog wasn't having any fun. But the problem really boils down to them not knowing how to motivate the dogs to experience the fun to be had. Isn't that just sad. Show me an unmotivated dog, and in most cases I'll show you an underinformed dog-owner.
what drives the dog?
is it food driven
does it like fetch.
keep in mind not all dogs are cut out each sport
mabey rally would be more his flavor
I too have a terrier. I understand how frustrating it can be to try to train a bored dog. So make it fun for you and him! Try lots of cookies(treats) and praise! Make it as fun as you possibly can! Clap your hands and act like your having the time of you life and he will be curious and want to join in the fun! When he does, praise him as if he just handed you a million dollars! Good luck! Remember be patient, some terriers take more help than others!
Hey there. I had major motivational problems with my Terrier as well. When do you see this come up? In class? At trials? What particular skill are you working on when this comes up?
Most motivational problems come from a 'hole' in your relationship. Take a look at the steps that you've taken to get to where you are. Could you take a step back anywhere and work on the foundation of the exercise, instead of trying to push further?
Susan Garrett (agility instructor from CA, has written 2 great books that will help you a LOT) says that you can't have speed until you have understanding. Have you taught your dog to understand his job, and have you and your dog had fun doing this at every step?
http://www.cleanrun.com/index.cfm?fuseac...
and
http://www.cleanrun.com/index.cfm?fuseac...
These books emphasize how having fun and motivation are linked - especially when you're working as a team. Forgetting about the fun? That's completely contrary to the whole concept of Agility.
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