Dog Catcher Trick by Sandra McKellarDogCatcher Trick

In this trick I offer my dog treats saying “This is from Uncle Mark” and “this is from Aunt Susan” and “this is from Grandma” the dog happily takes the treat but when I offer them the treat with “this is from the dogcatcher” they refuse the treat.

This trick is largely based on tone of voice. When I want her to take the treat I use a higher pitch and when I don’t want them to take it I use a lower pitch. While this is a simple trick it can be put to creative uses.

Teaching the Dog Catch Trick Steps:

  1. Gather a handful of small, high-value treats that your dog enjoys.
  2. Begin by rewarding your dog with a few treats while using a higher-pitched cue, such as “This is from Grandma!” to create a positive association.
  3. Next, lower the treat while using a deeper tone of voice, saying, “This is from the Dog Catcher.” Hold the treat firmly and wait for your dog to back away. When they do, offer praise and encouragement.
  4. If your dog is overly eager and attempts to grab the treat, gently flick their nose to signal that going for the treat is not the desired behavior.
  5. After giving the Dog Catcher cue, be sure to follow up with at least one or two positive cues where your dog can successfully receive a treat, reinforcing good behavior.

About Sandra McKellar & Jemma

My intentions with Jemma were that she would be a wonderfully able competition obedience dog and I set about training her from 8 weeks of age.  Her obedience career prior to covid started amazingly well and she quickly obtained CD’s in both Canada and the USA with high scores.

Throughout covid I continued teaching her all the exercises right through Utility but by the time we got back into the ring she made unilateral decisions to leave any and every competition ring without permission…

Consequently, I have nothing to report as far as titles go but I can say she is the sweetest and most loving constant companion I could ever hope for.

Sandra McKellar