Tolling training with Lars Bengtsson

The beginning

Torch is a very energetic dog who enjoys about almost any activity. He is very teachable and easily motivated.

Since he was a puppy, we have taught him basic commands and funny tricks. We started with luring, guiding him with treats, and later moved to shaping, where the dog has to figure out and offer the desired behavior. Both techniques were accompanied by positive reinforcement using a clicker.

We also attended obedience training from an early age. Initially, these were beginner lessons focused on socialization and operational obedience. Later, we started training for the first sports obedience exams according to the Brno Cynological Unit and the Czech National Testing Regulations.

At about six months old, we signed up for a two-day preparation for the basic OVVR exam (verification of retriever innate abilities) during a training camp organized by the Czech Toller Club. We had the opportunity to go through all the disciplines to know what to expect. We didn't focus much on preparation and successfully passed the exam at ten months old. We soon realized that it wasn't "just a verification of abilities," but a real exam that everyone trains for diligently. Our result reflected this, but we were satisfied because the abilities were proven even without preparation, and we had this retriever graduation done 😅😂.

After that, we participated in several training weekends focused on dummy training with Táňa Incédi.

We took the next training more seriously.

Our main goal was the higher hunting exam, the Club Hunting Trials. We trained hard for it, and what we put into it, we got back. Not all disciplines were perfect, but we succeeded in the end. Torch became a hunting dog and earned a working certificate, allowing him to participate in real hunts and to compete in the working class at shows.

In the spring of 2023, we started training for working tests with Lucie Prchalová (Profipes). We train regularly once a week in various terrains. Lucie is very precise and doesn't miss any mistakes. She understands the Toller temperament well and can help us in any situation. Thanks to her, we are finally making progress, and the training sessions are a great joy.

How is Torch at work?

Although I say that Torch is a reward dog, he has his strengths and weaknesses. His biggest positives are:

• Great willingness to work
• Doesn't whine
• No reaction to gunshots
• Doesn't run out for the retrieve on his own
• Persistent, works quickly and independently
• Excellent nose
• Reliable water retrieve
• Good heelwork
• Willingness to enter to difficult cover or mud
• Retrieves both feathered and furred game (but sometimes still plays with rabbits and carries them like a clown)

What we're still working on:

• Transitioning confidence into control and trust in the handler
• Calmness and better self-control during loud drives
• Ability to run in line for longer distances
• Blind retrieves without shooting