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Building Confidence in Soft-Mouthed Dogs: A Training Session with Koal

July 29, 2024 By Duke Ferguson Leave a Comment

Hey there, it’s Uncle Duke from Unleashed Potential. Today, I want to share an actual training session I had with Koal when he was about a year old. Now,  Koal is  doing great, but he is a soft dog and back then, he struggled with his retrieves. He was hesitant and not very assertive, especially when the ducks he retrieved were still moving. With some time, and consistent  training toward goals, he loves it and can retrieve heavy Canada geese all day.   

Addressing Hesitation in Retrieval Work

Koal’s hesitancy stemmed from his gentle nature. He was a soft pup with medium drive and we needed to build confidence from the start and later with the animals we hunted, like ducks and geese. It’s an un common issue among gundogs, and there’s often debate about whether to incorporate bite/tug work in their training. I’ve had extensive experience with both, and I can confidently say that it can be very beneficial when used correctly, but not for every dog. 

In this session, koal was already well-trained with retrieves but he needed a confidence boost and some work on grips to hold on better. For this, I turned the training into a fun yet challenging game. I used a combination of tools, including a clicker, an e-collar, and a flirt pole, to simulate the movement of a duck or goose.

The Training Process

The goal of this session was to make koal more confident and assertive. Here’s how we approached it:

  1. Incorporating the Clicker and E-Collar: I used a clicker to mark positive behaviors and an e-collar to motivate and encourage him. The e-collar was set to a low level, enough for koal to feel and respond. I use it as an activator but not so high that it caused to much discomfort, then it would be de activation.  This balance is crucial for maintaining a positive training environment. 
  2. Using a Flirt Pole: The flirt pole simulated the movement of a duck or goose. This tool helped Koal practice his grips in a controlled setting where he could build some strength and confidence. 
  3. Creating a Game: Turning the training into a game made it enjoyable for Koal and I.  It wasn’t just about learning; it was about having fun and building a strong bond between us.  YES I get to play with dogs for my career. Living the dream!

 

Observing the Results

Throughout the session, I used the e-collar to activate and reinforce behaviors, not to punish. When koal hesitated or let go of the “prey,” I encouraged him to try again. By the end of the session,as you can see the difference in his behavior was noticeable. He was more confident and assertive in his retrieves. 

One thing to note is that this type of training should not be attempted without proper preparation. This is not basic. Your dog needs to be e-collar conditioned the way we do it, so you will get the positive attitude and desired outcome & behaviour.  The dog must understand how to get his advantage as well as understanding  basics of retrieval training before introducing these more advanced techniques, if you decide to. Not all dogs require this, some need to be trained to be more soft and calm on the grips. 

Building a Positive Relationship with Training Tools

I often hear people say that e-collars are inhumane and ruin the relationship between the dog and the trainer. This is a user issue not a e collar tool issue. 

After watching the video to the end, you cant deny, this session with Koal is a testament to the opposite.   The relationship I’ve built with Koal, not just with me but with all the tools and training methods we use, shows that when used correctly, e-collars and any training tool can enhance productivity, increase attention focus and confidence. Training with e collars and the tools we use can be a very positive experience for both you and your dog.

Koal sees the e-collar as good things in life and a part of our training process, he understands how to respond to it and knows how to use the system to his advantage, which makes him more confident and eager to work.  

The Importance of Training in Context

When training your dog, it’s essential to consider their drives, temperament and needs. Motivation is important to understand. I had to keep Koal in good shape training physically and mentally, to build confidence and be good at his job and to LOVE what he does even more and this session was one of many, designed to do just that. It’s not about forcing your dog to comply but about motivating and shaping them to understand what’s expected and making it a positive experience. Once the dog knows how to get it’s advantage, stress decreases, confidence and hope increases. Dogs perform with heart and soul.  

Joining the Unleashed Potential Experience – UPX Training and Coaching Community

Do you struggle with your dog and want to learn more about training and shaping desired behaviours the way we do? How about wanting to build a better relationship to increase trust, attention and response. Do you have a coach, a tribe or community of like minded individuals who understand you and are there to support you along the way? Dont go at it alone,Join us in UPX and get the transformations you and your dog deserve. I invite you to join me and others like you, to the Unleashed Potential Experience (UPX) community today!   In our membership, you’ll have access to all my online courses  like The Core Excellence, E-Collar Excellence, fetch4Me and more. Join one of many challenges we have in UPX and and win prizes, connect with other members, share struggles and celebrate breakthroughs, Meet me and the others live in the community every 2 weeks for new training concepts, personal development coaching and more, including breathwork sessions for you. 

Final Thoughts

Training a dog takes time, patience, and the right approach. With the proper tools and techniques, you can help your dog overcome hesitancy and build confidence. koal’s progress is a great example of what’s possible when you combine effective training methods with a positive, supportive relationship. If you would like to learn more about how we use NePoPo® in training and as a lifestyle contact us today or join us in UPX. 

If you’d like to see the full training session with Koal, head over to unleashpotential.ca or dukeferguson.com. My upk9 team and I are  here to help you and your dog reach your full potential, one step at a time.

Join me in the Unleashed Potential Experience, and let’s work together to build a confident, happy, and well-trained dog.

Your Coach, Uncle Duke

Filed Under: Duke Ferguson, UPK9 Main Blog

The Power of Food Rewards in Training

July 8, 2024 By Duke Ferguson Leave a Comment

Training a dog can be both a rewarding and challenging experience. One question that often sparks debate among dog trainers and pet owners alike is: Do you use food in training your dog? The responses are usually divided, with some embracing food as a valuable training tool and others shying away from it, believing it can cause overexcitement or simply doesn’t work for their dog. In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of using food rewards in dog training and introduce you to two powerful reward systems that can transform your training sessions.

My name is Duke Ferguson, and I’ve dedicated my career to professional dog training and high-performance coaching. With nearly four decades of experience, I’ve worked with canine professionals worldwide, guiding them through the intricacies of the NePoPo® system and certified high-performance coaching®.

Why Use Food Rewards?

Using food in dog training is more than just a method; it’s a way to engage, motivate, and build a strong relationship with your dog. Many trainers and pet owners appreciate the engagement and enthusiasm that food rewards bring to training sessions. When used correctly, food can be a powerful tool to enhance learning and make training more enjoyable for both you and your dog.

However, some believe that using food can lead to dependency or that it creates a false sense of obedience. These concerns often stem from misunderstandings about how to effectively incorporate food into training. Let’s address these misconceptions and learn how to use food rewards properly to maximize their benefits.

If you’re not currently using food in your training, then you’re missing out. Big time on productivity and you’re putting too much effort into it. I’m almost going to guarantee that because I got almost four decades of dog training. I’ve been doing this my whole life. I came from the old world. I was anti food.

The Two Reward Systems

In dog training, there are two pri reward systems: indirect rewards and direct rewards. Each system serves a unique purpose and can be tailored to achieve specific training goals.

  1. Indirect Rewards

Indirect rewards are not immediately visible to the dog. This method involves the dog working to hear a click or a release cue before receiving the reward. The food reward is not directly in front of the dog but is instead hidden, perhaps in your pocket or a cupboard. This system mirrors natural hunting behaviors, where animals work to find their food.

Using indirect rewards can create positive energy, increase dopamine levels, and foster heart-and-soul type behaviors where the dog is fully engaged and motivated. It’s particularly effective for building drive and enthusiasm in training. By keeping the reward unpredictable, you maintain the dog’s interest and focus, encouraging them to put forth their best effort.

  1. Direct Rewards

Direct rewards are visible and predictable. The dog knows exactly where the reward is and works directly for it. This method is beneficial for creating calm and stable behaviors. When a dog sees the reward and works towards it, the training becomes more straightforward and focused.

Direct rewards are excellent for teaching new behaviors, particularly in the initial stages. They help in maintaining calmness and stability, especially in distracting environments. This system can also be used for behaviors that require precision and consistency, as it provides clear and immediate feedback to the dog.

How to Make Food Rewards Work

One common issue trainers face is that dogs sometimes refuse food rewards. This can happen for various reasons, such as the dog not being hungry enough or the environment being too distracting. Here are some tips to overcome these challenges and make food rewards effective:

  • Build Ignition: A term NePoPo® trainers often use. It means Ensure your dog is motivated and eager to work for the reward hard enough. This involves creating a bit of hunger and desire. Don’t give food for free in a bowl; instead, use training sessions as opportunities for your dog to earn their food.
  • Be Unpredictable: Especially with indirect rewards, keep the dog guessing. This unpredictability can heighten their interest and engagement in the training process. Quality and quantity unknown. 
  • Phase It In: Start with high rates of reinforcement to build the behavior, then gradually phase out the frequency of rewards. This approach helps to maintain the behavior without constant reinforcement.

Choosing the Right System

The choice between direct and indirect rewards depends on your training goals and the specific behaviors you are working on. For creating calmness and stability, direct predictable rewards are your go-to. For building drive, enthusiasm, and active engagement, indirect rewards are more suitable. Often, a combination of both systems is necessary to achieve a well-rounded and balanced training program.

Conclusion

Food rewards, when used correctly, can significantly enhance your dog training efforts. By understanding and implementing the principles of direct and indirect rewards, you can unleash your dog’s full potential, making training sessions more productive, enjoyable, and effective. Whether you’re a professional trainer or a pet owner, these techniques offer valuable insights into building a strong, positive relationship with your dog.

For more in-depth dog training, 1:1 coaching, and support, join the Unleashed Potential Experience (UPX) community. Together, we can achieve greater clarity, productivity, and success in your dog training journey. Visit Duke Ferguson’s UPX Membership to learn more.

Filed Under: Duke Ferguson

Modern Day Dog Training With Unleashed Potential. NePoPo Training

October 30, 2016 By Duke Ferguson Leave a Comment

Modern Day Dog Training With Unleashed Potential. NePoPo training.

Did you know there is a terrible misconception in the dog training world that if you use E – Collars or other tools that can apply pressure or corrections then you are not a positive trainer at all…..AND… If your a user of clickers or verbal marks then your not a trainer who can stand to apply pressure or corrections in training.

This Misconception is crazy and its not true at all.

Check out this video I made for you. It has 2 key foundation training tips in it.

 

Got Dog Problems? Do you want help? No matter the size, sex, age or breed We Can Help!

Would you like  FREE dog training advice? OR to just learn more about Duke’s philosophy on dog training?  GET ACCES HEERE to his Exclusive, FREE Mini video series  Click Here!! This mini series is not found on Youtube… Get Access Now… You will love the mini series and its Free!! 🙂

To find a UPK9 Trainer near you or to Book your  FREE Demonstration and Consult Click Here

For more information on how you can  purchase Dog Training Genesis and become a member  CLICK  HERE or on the photo below of Duke and his dogs.

ARE YOU A TRAINER LOOKING TO BETTER YOUR SKILLS OR SOMEONE WANTING TO LEARN TO BECOME A DOG TRAINER or JOIN THE UPK9 TEAM ? CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN COME AND TRAIN WITH DUKE FERGUSON

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Learn More About Dog Training Genesis CLICK HERE !

Follow us on FACEBOOK  and subscribe to  us on YouTube

 

Filed Under: Duke Ferguson, UPK9 Main Blog

Duke Ferguson Seminar. The Art of Attention. Barrie, Ontario Canada. June 25th -26th 2016

May 23, 2016 By Duke Ferguson Leave a Comment

Duke Ferguson Seminar. The art of attention in Barrie, Ontario, Canada June 25-26th

2 Day Intense hands-on workshop in Barrie, ON, CANADA with Duke Ferguson of Unleashed Potential K9 , Creator of Dog Training Geneisis and certified NePoPo® trainer

This workshop will go over theory to the practical application of using timing, motivation and consistency with highly motivational, positive food training and remote collar use. You will learn in depth training on markers, using either verbal or a clicker. You will also learn how to use a remote collar in an extremely motivational manner as a means of easy communication. You will learn the NePoPo® System.

Register here message Janet Hanley
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This 2 day intensive workshop will give you the skills necessary to achieve unshakable focus an unbelievable bond and a strong work ethic from your dog. If you are looking to achieve amazing results, this is the workshop for you!

All spaces are $450 + HST If you plan on bringing a dog, let me know.

Duke will be working with people and their dogs. 10 is normally the limit but he always tries his best to get as many out as possible so you want to work a dog then be sure to bring the dog…. depending on the demand not every dog will be worked personally by Duke but he will do the best he can to get to as many as he can. Even if Duke can not work your dog you will have the chance to.
NOTE!!!
IF YOU ARE GOING TO BRING A DOG PLEASE BRING IT “HUNGRY” FOOD MOTIVATED AND WILLING TO WORK. 
There is plenty of parking.
Pet friendly hotels are 30 seconds walk from the facility.
Lunch will be provided on both days

If you need any training equipment, i.e.: place cots, e collars, slip leads, or muzzles all will be available for sale at the seminar.
Message Janet Hanley to Register Now 
PLEASE HAVE AGGRESSIVE DOGS MUZZLED PRIOR TO ENTERING THE FACILITY.

See You in Ontario!

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Got Dog Problems? Do you want help? No matter the size, sex, age or breed We Can Help!

Would you like  FREE dog training advice? OR to just learn more about Duke’s philosophy on dog training?  GET ACCESS HERE to his Exclusive, FREE Mini video series  Click Here!! This mini series is not found on Youtube… Get Access Now… You will love the mini series and its Free!! :)

To find a UPK9 Trainer near you or to Book your  FREE Demonstration and Consult Click Here

For more information on how you can  purchase Dog Training Genesis and become a member  CLICK  HERE or on the photo below of Duke and his dogs.

ARE YOU A TRAINER LOOKING TO BETTER YOUR SKILLS OR SOMEONE WANTING TO LEARN TO BECOME A DOG TRAINER or JOIN THE UPK9 TEAM ? CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN COME AND TRAIN WITH DUKE FERGUSON

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Learn More About Dog Training Genesis CLICK HERE !

Filed Under: Duke Ferguson, UPK9 Main Blog

Duke Ferguson Seminar “The Art of Attention” in Arizona April 29 to May 1st

April 17, 2016 By Duke Ferguson Leave a Comment

April 29th to May 1st 2016

This event will be live streamed as well so if you can not make it you can still get access.

To sign up for the seminar or the live stream please CLICK HERE!!

https://youtu.be/tKIARF-IrIY

Got Dog Problems? Do you want help? No matter the size, sex, age or breed We Can Help!

Would you like  FREE dog training advice? OR to just learn more about Duke’s philosophy on dog training?  GET ACCES HEE to his Exclusive, FREE Mini video series  Click Here!! This mini series is not found on Youtube… Get Access Now… You will love the mini series and its Free!! 🙂

To find a UPK9 Trainer near you or to Book your  FREE Demonstration and Consult Click Here

For more information on how you can  purchase Dog Training Genesis and become a member  CLICK  HERE or on the photo below of Duke and his dogs.

ARE YOU A TRAINER LOOKING TO BETTER YOUR SKILLS OR SOMEONE WANTING TO LEARN TO BECOME A DOG TRAINER or JOIN THE UPK9 TEAM ? CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW YOU CAN COME AND TRAIN WITH DUKE FERGUSON

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Learn More About Dog Training Genesis CLICK HERE !

Filed Under: Duke Ferguson, UPK9 Main Blog

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