Tag: toys

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Getting started Show dog training

What motivates your dog?

What motivates your dog?
I thought I would share my experience from the weekend, in hope that it will help anyone.

I had forgotten all the toys I use in the ring and on the day, treats weren’t working! We were standing alone in Limit, a “free pass” to the challenge, but Giles didn’t want to move like he can, his head was lower, he just wasn’t playing the game!

Not wanting this attitude in the challenge, I ran off to buy a toy from hub int while open dog was in! We had a game, some fun and then went into the challenge (with new, fluffy, squeaky mouse in my bra!).

Pretty pleased I made the effort and spent £2.50 on yet another toy! We got the RCC behind the eventual group winner!

moral of the story – know what motivates your dog!

Categories
Show dog training

Make it worth their while…

Make it worth their while…
Think about the value of the reward you give your dog when training, especially when training something new.

To put it in simple terms, think of these two scenarios;

1) I ask you to get me some shopping and say “Thank you” when you return. Would you do it again for me? (Yes, No, Maybe if you have time?)

2) I ask you to get me some shopping at give you £50. Would you do it again for me? (Yes, No, Maybe?)

Most people will answer Scenario 1 as No / Maybe, but nearly all will answer Scenario 2 as Yes. This is the same for your dog. Give a high reward and they will want to do it again.

A high reward is something your dog LOVES and only comes out when training such as liver cake, cheese, toys they love or a game.

Categories
Show dog training

Food vs Toys in the ring

Food vs Toys in the ring
One of the great things about showing over other dog competition sports,  is you can “cheat” and use anything you can (within reason) to get your dogs attention in the ring.

Treats I think are the common choice. Most dogs are food motivated and treats are a quick and calm way of rewarding your dog immediately as well as keeping their attention on you and used as bribery.

Toys are less used in the show ring, but are a keen training tool for non food motivated dogs and a popular training tool for those who have done/do agility/obedience it seems.

Toys can be harder. To show good sportsmanship, you do not want to distract other dogs in the ring. Therefore it is not a good idea to be squeaking squeaky toys, playing a game of tug or playing ‘catch’. However, the use of a toy as a lure is fine. Sometimes, a dog just knowing you have something they want can change the way they work for you, so feel free to take in a small toy that will fit in your pocket and then let your dog have a game after the class, away from the rings.

Remember when in the ring to consider your fellow exhibitors and show good sportsmanship at all times.