@Neodarwinian “Punishment could be the instant termination of the walk ( a waiting period ensues then before the next walk—10 minutes should do ) if the behavior is evidenced.”
^ I doubt a dog would make the connection that his behaviour led to this “time-out”.
@janbb I would not get a prong collar, yank on his leash or hurt him in any way: Punishment like that can lead to a nervous dog, the most dangerous kind. Imagine the world through a dog’s eyes…a squirrel, wow. Humans…I love humans… A CAR. Those are SO much fun. What’s that smell?! And now there’s a kid running past!
It is very possible that you end up with your dog lunging at squirrels or kids instead of cars…dogs make the weirdest connections.
For this reason, I would even avoid water guns and loud noises for now. I would start by buying a clicker, if you haven’t already got one. Teaching Frodo that a clicking noise equals food/toys/praise – essentially, paradise – should not take more than three ten minute sessions. Afterwards, you have an instant reward at your disposal, and just a look in your direction can be reinforced. Puppies learn fast, and it is much more fun if you don’t have to be the bad guy.
I would focus on getting Frodo to look at you instead of sitting. It seems more practical, as you won’t have to stop for every single car.