Are we coasting or are we improving? Is time so precious that we cannot invest in doing better? Looking at “Leave it” protocols, which are just another way of saying “no”. If we focus our training around what we don’t want the dog will focus on what to avoid. Focus on what we do want.
Even though today we are surrounded by many available protocols for teaching with positive reinforcement, there is still a persistence that a dog should be set-up to make an error. An error is simply the difference between my expectation and the dog’s response. No more “distractions”, but faded-in environments.
“the direct use of the reinforcer to elicit the behaviour”
This should always be foremost in our mind, in that many alternatives lures are available.
The delight of your new puppy is probably going to last a few weeks, maybe four if you are lucky. When 12 weeks old hits, and you will feel a slam, the Delight is going to demonstrate ungrateful, obnoxious traits.
Rewards are the centre of learning, and intricately linked to cues. WE cannot learn enough about how it….
What do we want them to learn?
How do we teach it?
When do we teach it?
I am a person who shares life with a Border Collie. It’s like being a member of a secret society of which few people would be crazy enough to join.
Walking along a busy street with traffic can cause the dog to lunge out. Any uncontrolled movement such as joggers, bikes, other dogs doing agility will trigger the reflex to control the movement. The is a need, their purpose in life.
Well I don’t know about your evening’s entertainment at present, but it certainly is not on my TV ….. yawn …. so after some wandering around U-Know-Who I found a really tension filled, exciting sport to watch ….
This is a great introduction to the sport of Sheedog Trials. An invitation event set over three different days culminating in a gripping final.
Collies do not want to CHASE, the want to catch to prevent the ball, or sheep escaping.
They play a great role as goal keeper, and boundary guardian.
