Monday, February 25, 2013

Shaping: Keeping Your Dog's Head in the Game

I had set up a shaping scenario.  I wanted Oats to put his paws up onto an object.  Every time he neared the upside down bowl, I gave him a click and treat.  We both understood the basic concept of shaping, but we were both new at it.  He understood the game, but we just weren't feeling it that day.  I clicked him and gave him a treat, which he ate.  He just looked at the bowl, waiting.  He looked up at me and then back at the bowl before he snorted and walked away.  The message was clear:  This was just not worth his time.