THE SEND AWAY STICK

If you're having problems getting a fast send away or quick down at the end, the answer is a send away stick. Used as a target for the reward, instead of a reward, it will keep your dog focused and energized. The stick is segmented, so it can be “faded” by reducing the size of the target as training progresses. The spike at the end can be reversed for safe storage inside the stick. Made of hard, durable plastic, it will last many years. Gary Patterson developed this technique 25 years ago and included is a detailed training booklet written by him which shows the trainer how to take a dog through the six steps to finish the exercise. The result should be a ripping send away in any direction the trainer marks, with a quick down at the end.