Hi, we are the proud owners of a 10 month old chocolate lab (male). Although we have completed 2 lots of dog training classes we are still having problems especially with coming back to us on command. On the lead he is perfect (until he comes across another dog at close range) off the lead is a different matter. He constantly "sniffs" at everything and is sometimes so engrossed in sniffing i'm not so sure that he hears us( Is this a lab trait? ), or he is off to say" hello" to other dogs or people. Our walks seem to be spent constantly trying to get his attention or on the look out for others in the park before he sees them and does a runner. He enjoys a toy and good tug of war but for very short periods. Any suggestions would be appreciated.We now attach him to a longer lead so we can get closer to him and stand on it before he can disappear, as he will not let us get close enogh to grab him but he is getting wise to this! Is this adolesence and when do they grow out of it!!! Fred

Hi Fred

Your lab sounds like a perfectly normal pup. He's just got to the stage when everything outside is really interesting - smells like other dogs in the neighbourhood and maybe bitches in season and little critter smells which are far more exciting than listening and returning to you.
Yes, Labs are notorious 'sniffers' which is what makes them such popular 'nosework' dogs in work and sport :) Yours sounds no exception.
Attaching him to a long line is a good idea to keep him under control. You could keep your toy in your pocket as he likes it when you take him out and perhaps stick some treats in there too. The dog training classes are good as they teach the basic commands, but you need to keep practising in the field as the responses you get in a controlled environment under instruction are often very different outside when other things are going on and providing distractions. It can be very frustrating for the dog owner to see all their hard work and progress appearing to go out the window when the dog completely ignores you but we've all probably been there as well at some stage with young dogs - I know I have :)
Don't despair! This is such a common problem. When you are out, let out the long lead and call him back to you. He wont be able to disobey as you have the control and you can reel him in if you have to. Body language and posture is important so call him in a happy voice and get down to his level if you have to to encourage him in to you. When he does give him a reward, a happy pat, a treat or play with his toy for a minute or two and then take it off him and put it back in your pocket. Take it off him before he gets sick of playing with you with it. He'll know you still have it on you and if he wants it he will have to come back to you to get it :) Try changing the rewards about to keep it interesting for him. He doesn't know what to expect when he comes back but whatever it is it's nice.
How long it takes for the penny to drop and grow out of undesirable behaviour varies from dog to dog and how much effort is put in by the owners in training and reinforcing desirable behaviour.
Good luck with him :)