Just got back from taking 1 yr old dog for run in the local field. 2 1/2 hrs later have got wet feet, blue hands and feeling very frustrated. Cassie used to be very good on recall then at 6 mths developed a rebellious streak and refused to come back (had a few standoffs) then we saw a 1-1 trainer who showed us how to use the long training lead correctly. We trained her with this for a couple of months at which she was fab then we tried her without and again brill. She would drop the ball at my feet and put her head forward for me to touch her collar before she ran off. This lasted a few weeks then she had a small relap so we started from scratch again. She was brill from day one of the training so again after a period we let her off. For a few weeks she was very good then it happened again - so started from scratch again until we got to the same stage as before 100% recall. Until today. She only retrieved the ball and dropped it for me x 2 then refused to come back. I tried to remain calm and just carried on throwing the ball and walking. At first there were no other dogs so it wasnt as though she was distracted. Eventually there were other dogs and that was it - i was ignored. (Usually she ignores other dogs/owners as long as she has her ball to retrieve). She wouldnt come anywhere near me. I couldnt contact my hubby so eventually rang a friend who also had no luck. Other dog owners tried to help with no avail. Eventually after 2 1/2 hrs i could take no more (it was freezing, I had missed an appt. and i was very wet) so i rang the grandparents who come ASAP. Within minutes of Cassie seeing them so ran straight to them!!!!!!!!!! I dont ever want to let her off the lead again which i think is a shame as she loves it but i am worried about this happening. I have been back to basics time and time again and everytime i think its worked this happens. Can dogs be happy without being off lead?? Sorry rant over.
p.s treats - no matter how smelly or nice and toys DO NOT WORK outside of the home.