Teddy was our first Bernese Mountain Dog. He’s a pet, not a show dog … but he sure has shown me a thing or two. And the video above shows it.
Fun and games to start
It started when Teddy was a young pup. We played hiding games in the basement with his toys. I’d show him a toy, hide it and say “find it.” He found his toy and brought it to me every time.
Just for fun, I hid a toy without showing it to him first. He found it! Hmmmm. How did he know? I wondered if my recent scent was what he was looking for all along. After all, dogs have the gift of a superior nose
Testing a theory pays off
To find the answer, I picked up a washcloth, rubbed it in my hands, walked into my office and tucked it under my desk. I went back to Teddy who was in a sit/stay in the basement playroom.
“Find it,” I said. Sure enough, within seconds, he emerged from my office with the washcloth in his mouth. He earned big praise and a jackpot of treats. This was an epiphany. Teddy was showing off his magnificent nose skills. He was doing it all along, and I just didn’t know.
‘Find it’ turned out to be a real skill
We started playing our “find it” game outside, and Teddy continues to succeed. The accompanying video demonstrates just that.
Now I’m really looking forward to taking nose work classes at our obedience club. Teddy already has the nose … now his tracking skills just need to be refined.
Sometimes, a dog will surprise you with his instinct.
Enjoy the video!
Teddy has an amazing nose. Reminds me of one of our female goldens. Gave you considered search and rescue training for him?
Hi Barb!
Nose Work classes are offered at the Dog Training Club of Chester County. I’m going to sign us up when the next introductory class shows up on the schedule. Sounds like a lot of fun. I’m not sure we will do search and rescue with him but it will be lots of fun learning all about it. I think Therapy dog work is more likely in Teddy’s future.
Nice job Teddy!!! Love your huge yard!!!