I adopted a 9 1/2 month standard poodle 2 weeks ago. His breeder was seriously ill, then passed away. 3 pups out of a litter of 9 were left in the kennel for 6 months with no interaction with people other than to be fed. He will now play and greet me, but always turns his head to the side when I'm trying to talk, play, groom, feed, anything with him. How can I encourage him to make eye contact? It is my understanding that it will be easier to train him once I've accomplished that.
One of my dogs never look at me when I wipe his paws when bringing him from outside. It is so funny to see him turning his head away.
However, he really watches me with a command "Watch me". He is a border collie so he really focus on commands and I love his piercing eyes.
I understand standard poodles are also very intelligent so once he masters the command, it will be easy to get his attention. Here is how you teach the command~
Have him sit in front of you. Show him a piece of treat and bring it in between your eyes. (at this point you don't need to say "Watch me") If his eyes follow the treat and he looks at you in your eyes say "Good boy" and give him the treat. Repeat this many time until he understands that he can get treats when he looks at you.
Then, introduce the command by saying "Watch me" as you show him a treat. Every time you give him a treat or toy or just for nothing, say "Watch me" and bring your fingers in between your eyes (you won't have to hold a treat after some time of practice).
Now you have a way to get his attention and you can start teaching him other commands.
