Morning Guys

Just a quick question for dog owners really, we’ve recently adopted an 18 month old lab from the rescue centre and I’ve taken him out walking in the peak quite a bit over the past few weeks. He really loves it, but when we get to stiles, they are a major epic. He won’t climb them and won’t jump over them. If there is a dog gate he’s fine, but if not, it’s a bit of a nightmare without lifting him over, which is fine at the moment but if / when he’s a bit heavier it’s gonna be a problem.

What does everyone else do? I’ve seen a harness that would make it easier to lift him over if need be, but can I train him to climb over them?? It’s our first dog, so any help would be appreciated!!

We taught our labrador to jump them. Started very small over logs etc and worked up to it. It was tricky at first for him to know where to put his paws but soon worked it out- it saves loads of hassle

lift him over, at 18 months he should be fully grown, its an incentive not to over feed him. The other option is to just walk off, they usually get the idea.

this maybe?

Have to agree with asndy, practice in the garden over logs or a chair, get him used to jumping up onto things, start small and work up,maybe walking along a scaffold plank on blocks.
Labs are working dogs and shouldnt have any problem climbing or jumping over a stile, take out some dog treats for encouragement, and rewards, if the standard dog treats dont encourage enough, cut up some cocktail sausages to take out in your pocket. Treats will also help get him trained to a dog whistle, which will save your voice on long walks!

Teaching him that he can jump is great, but be aware that he may put his new found skill to use when you are not looking; our collie cross didn’t used to realise he could jump, now he goes from the back of a garden bench 5′ away from a 6′ high garden wall straight over said wall, just because he can. (still hasn’t got to grips with the landing though, the splat is something to behold…)

[video]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXElh_VM0Uc[/video]

That dog is awesome!