Unleashing Potential: Teaching Dogs to Offer Behaviors at Western States K-9 College Dog Trainers School

Communication between humans and dogs goes beyond verbal commands. Our body language plays a crucial role in conveying messages to our furry friends. At Western States K-9 College Dog Trainers School, we recognize the power of non-verbal communication and utilize it to teach dogs how to offer behaviors. In this blog post, we'll explore the concept of teaching dogs to offer behaviors and how it forms the foundation of effective dog training.

The Basics of Offering Behaviors:

When we teach a dog to do something, we're essentially teaching them the associated word for the action. However, teaching a dog to offer behaviors takes a different approach. Instead of guiding them through a series of steps, we show them the end goal and let them work through the chain of events on their own.

Starting the Process:

To initiate the teaching of offering behaviors, begin with a simple action like sitting. While sitting is good, it's not the ultimate goal. Offer one or two kibbles and positive verbal feedback for sitting. However, the higher value behavior to aim for is the "down" position. Show the dog three times by leading them into the down position, allowing them to figure out what earns them the reward.

Let Them Work Through It:

After demonstrating the down position three times, stand up and let the dog work through it independently. Dogs will naturally try different behaviors, such as sitting or shaking, to earn the reward. If frustration arises, show them once more and then encourage them to figure it out on their own. Avoid resourcing guarding the food, treating it as their own, and providing positive feedback when they soften to your cues.

Building on Success:

Once the dog successfully offers the down position, reward them with a handful of treats. Repeat this process until the dog consistently offers the down as the first behavior. This foundational training method sets the stage for more advanced tricks and behaviors.

Taking it Further:

The process of offering behaviors can be extended to teach a variety of tricks and actions. Whether it's shaking paws, closing doors, or anything else you can imagine, the key is to create a picture for the dog and let them figure out the chain of events. Alternatively, you can guide them to a specific place, such as having all four paws on a rug, and reward them when they reach the desired location. Gradually, encourage them to offer specific behaviors before receiving treats, allowing them to understand the chain that leads to success.

Conclusion:

At Western States K-9 College Dog Trainers School, we believe in unlocking the full potential of every dog through innovative training methods. Teaching dogs to offer behaviors goes beyond simple commands, empowering them to think and problem-solve independently. This approach not only strengthens the bond between humans and their canine companions but also lays the groundwork for a well-behaved and responsive pet.