In dog training, the best way to describe shaping is to say that it’s a teaching method that utilizes 100% positive reinforcement to get a dog to perform increasingly complex behaviors. In other words, owners start small to build something big. Dogs can’t immediately “get your slippers.” First, they have to recognize the value of going to the closet. It’s an extremely fun way of training because the dog figures out what the owner wants them to do almost entirely on their own. This experience is very fun to witness! Moreover, it’s a great exercise that not only gets a dog thinking, but it stokes the dog to ask, “What do I have to do to please you and therefore get my paycheck (reward).” Previously, we published a blog on Human Shaping, and here are a few tidbits of information on shaping with dogs.
1 – Set the dog up for success.
Roxy (the Rat Terrier) had been skittish around her office crate, but with a few minor adjustments, she was far more likely to enjoy experiences in and around the crate. We even switched the door orientation and held it back with cords so that the door wouldn’t move when Roxy entered the crate.
2 – Use high-value rewards.
Dogs are far more likely to work for a higher value reward like hot dog or string cheese rather than kibble. Consider all rewards on a scale where kibble will be a lower-value reward and something like stinky, Natural Balance food rolls as a higher value reward.
3 – Start small.
Start by rewarding small behaviors in the vicinity of the crate. With patience and consistent practice, the dog will begin associating their crate with positive experiences.
*Please note that each dog will move at a different pace. With Roxy, she’s been training for months, but she still has the tendency to bark/whine as soon as she’s expected to do something new or different. Although the whining/barking is heard in this video clip, Roxy is a dog that LOVES working for treats, and she thrives in a working relationship with her owner.