Duke Ferguson

Why Solid Recall Can Save Your Dog’s Life: Lessons from a Surprising Blooper

September 23, 2024 By Duke Ferguson Leave a Comment

“If you’re going to let your dog off the leash, you better have a solid recall for safety and sanity purposes.”

Every dog owner has that moment when their dog suddenly bolts, and in that moment, you realize just how crucial recall training is. This can be the difference between a safe return and a disaster. In this video, you get a firsthand look at a real-life training session where things didn’t go as planned, but in the end, it provides a perfect learning opportunity. What makes this story unique? Well, it includes an unexpected blooper—a surprise cat that takes center stage. What starts as a simple training exercise turns into a wild chase and an impromptu lesson in the importance of a solid recall command.

When training dogs, you can’t control the environment, but you can certainly control your dog through proper techniques. The blooper shows what happens when your dog encounters a distraction like a cat, and how having a reliable recall command is not just a convenience but a necessity. As I explain in the video, if you’re overconfident and lose focus, things can go south fast. One second, Koal was heading out to retrieve a bumper, and the next, he was in hot pursuit of a cat. The situation escalated quickly, and while I didn’t react as fast as Koal, the recall training paid off. With three blows of the whistle, Koal came sprinting back—proof that recall can pull your dog away from prey, even when you can’t see them.

So how do you ensure that your dog listens when it counts? It comes down to setting the foundation with the right training. Here are four tips from the video that will help you build a rock-solid recall:

1. Set the Stage for Success

Before you can expect your dog to come reliably, you need to create the right conditions. This means controlling what you can and preventing what you can’t. The key is not giving your dog full freedom until they’ve mastered the recall. One of the best ways to do this is by using food as a motivator. Instead of feeding your dog straight from a dish, use mealtime as an opportunity to train. When food is tied to training, your dog becomes more motivated, and you can shape a solid recall without distractions.

2. Establish Clear Communication

Often, the problem isn’t that dogs don’t want to listen; they simply don’t understand what we’re asking. That’s why it’s essential to set up a clear communication system. I always start by establishing behavior marks—using clickers, verbal markers like “good,” or release cues. This helps the dog understand when they’ve done something right and when they can expect a reward. Communication doesn’t just stop at behavior marks, though. It’s equally important to wait to name the command until after you’ve shaped the behavior. Get the dog responding first, then start attaching the recall word. This ensures the command has meaning when you use it.

3. Shape the Recall Through Play

Recall training doesn’t have to be rigid or boring. One of the most effective ways to build a strong recall is by integrating it into a game. When your dog is hungry, throw a piece of food away and let them chase after it. Once they’ve eaten it, they’ll naturally come back to you for more. Each time they return, mark the behavior, and toss the food again. With a leash on, you don’t even have to call them—you’re shaping the behavior of returning to you. As this becomes a habit, start introducing the recall word, so when they hear it, they associate it with fun and rewards.

4. Take it to the Real World—But Stay Safe

Once your dog has a reliable recall in a controlled environment, it’s time to test it in more distracting settings. But be cautious—just because your dog listens in one situation doesn’t mean they will in another. It’s easy to get overconfident, thinking your dog will come every time. To really solidify the recall and ensure your dog responds in any scenario, I highly recommend using a remote collar, the way we teach it. This helps deepen the recall response, so no matter where your dog is or what distractions they face, they’ll fly back to you when called—just like Cole did after chasing the cat.

Training your dog to come when called isn’t just about obedience—it’s about safety. In the video, Koal’s chase could have turned into something much more dangerous. But because of his training, I was able to call him off a prey drive and bring him back. When you put in the time to create a reliable recall, you’re ensuring your dog’s safety in all kinds of environments.

The next time you think about letting your dog off-leash, remember: a solid recall isn’t optional. It’s essential for both your dog’s safety and your peace of mind.

Building Confidence in Nervous Dogs: Tackling Food Bowl Anxiety

July 23, 2024 By Duke Ferguson Leave a Comment

Hey there, it’s your trainer and coach, Uncle Duke from Unleashed Potential. Today, I want to address a common issue many dog owners face: dogs being nervous of different tings and sounds. We normally think about loud sounds like guns and fireworks, but some dogs are nervous of metal food bowls or water dishes. You might not notice it, but it’s a reality for many dogs. Ive seen thirsty dogs who refused fresh drink from a dog bucket that was metal. The clinking noise of their collar hitting the bowl can cause hesitation and anxiety. If you have a dog who has weak nerves or is fearful then this video and post is FOR YOU AND YOUR DOG! This post will walk you through techniques to help your dog build confidence and become more courageous around their food bowl. This confidence will bleed out in other life things in a more positive way. Take what I teach and add it to different situations in life with your dog. Same principles apply on other areas and to other things. This is the food bowl confidence builder.

Understanding the Anxiety

Dogs can develop nervousness around food bowls due to the noise they make when their collar or leash hits the dish and they have never learned to overcome it. This is particularly true for dogs that are naturally timid or have had negative experiences in the past. WE the humans often feel bad for the dog and make things more comfortable for them by using a different bowl and avoiding the issue of the initial fear. This is unproductive for for making the dog more courageous and resilient to life and more anxiety increases becasue the dogs never learn to take on a challenge and struggle then win to become stronger and tougher and more confident in life.

Instead, anxiety increases in different areas of life over time. This affects overall health, performance and wellness of the dog in a negative way. It is the same in humans. There is a healthy way and an unhealthy way to look at things that effect our choices and outcomes in life. Often doig the hard things, taking on the challenge is what helps us grow and learn and become stronger mentally and physically. We won’t do it if we are not motivated and we wont be if others will do it for us. 😉 I cant say enough about having a good coach in your corner and as for the dogs, they need us humans as their coach whos in their corner, just like we need coaches in our life to grow and succeed. This is why I became a certified professional dog trainer and high performance coach.

I feel there are ”to many” humans and dogs who end up on anti anxiety medication when it is not required. Most often other things in combination work excellent to combat anxiety. To name a few examples for humans and dogs: Getting enough rest and exercise, proper nutrition, therapy or coaching, training and personal development for dogs and humans, breathwork and more hobby or play. By taking on challenges to learn to serve and grow and doing hard tings that is what is required fir growth and resilience to life and reduce anxiety.

In the video, the goal is to counter condition or desensitize them to the noise and make the eating experience positive and stress-free.

Desensitization Techniques

One effective way to build your dog’s confidence is through gradual desensitization. Here’s how I approach this training:

Introduce the Noise Gradually: Start by dropping food into the bowl while your dog is near it. If they’re hesitant or jumpy, it’s okay. The idea is to get them used to the sound bit by bit.
Observe and Adjust: Pay close attention to your dog’s reactions. If they show signs of stress, like jumping or backing away, take note. The key is to proceed slowly and not push them past their comfort zone to much to fast. Let the dog try harder then you do. It is healthy to let the dog struggle to figure out how to gain its advantage.
Positive Associations: Each time you drop food into the bowl, the experience and sound means something positive. Over time, they will start to associate the clinking noise with something good—food!!!! and the noise will be a desired sound when it was once a fear sound. Decreasing the anxiety. BUT the dog needs to want the reward bad enough to try hard. Letting the dog struggle so it can find its own advantages is POWERFUL!!

Step-by-Step Process

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:

Initial Introduction: Place some food in the bowl and let your dog approach it. If they hesitate simply wait and just be there with them. If they jump at the noise, it’s a sign that they’re still nervous, but don’t worry—this is normal. This is a matter of time and patience. Just be! I call this waiting for the water to boil before we can get cooking potatoes and lobster. See that in a different youtube video. LOL!
Increasing the Challenge in small steps:: As your dog becomes more comfortable, start making a bit more challenging with noises and places with the bowl. Make it a game of growth and it will become fun as long as you dont make it to hard. For instance, you can tap the bowl lightly. Watch their reaction closely. If they remain calm, reward them with food. If at any point they seem too stressed, dial it back a bit. See the video for best example.
Incorporating Other Noises: To further build confidence, you can introduce other noises and distractions. For example, use a stick or another object to create sounds near the food bowl. This helps your dog become more resilient to various noises. Place the bowl on different surfaces and be creative and make it fun. Challenge build up idea: I set the bowl on a skate board and begin tapping on it as the dog eats. If you can do this post the video in UPX community if you are a member and we can celebrate! Besure to tage me and you could win a prize! . If you are not in UPX training and coaching community then I invite you to join me in UPX today.

Real-Life Application

During a training session, I noticed my dog was nervous about the noise of his food bowl. I began by dropping food into the bowl and observed his reaction. Initially, he startled at the noise, but with consistent practice “opening and closing the kitchen” and making positive reinforcement work, he became more comfortable.

One exercise I used was tapping the bowl while he was eating. At first,I took it slow since he was a little anxious,, but over time, he learned to associate the noise with food and became less anxious, mentally stronger and more confident. It’s similar to building muscle; you start with light weights and gradually increase the load as you get stronger. The same principle applies here—small steps lead to big improvements.

Final Thoughts

Training and dog and helping them to overcome their fears and build confidence takes time and patience and they need you as that coach. They cnt do it alone. Just like us humans, when we want to grow and transform and succeed we also need a good coach. Do you and your dog have a good coach?

It’s essential to give yourself patience and grace for you and your dog to learn and grow. Life, relationships and growth is a process and a struggle for dogs and humans. Honour the struggle is something I say in UPX, you should join us if you have not already.

By using these techniques, you can help your dog become more courageous and relaxed around their food bowl and other noises.

Dont go at life alone with your dog, find a like minded tribe and community. If you’re in to dog training, personal development, breathwork and outdoors and if you are looking for more guidance and support or more challenges and growth for you and your dog then join the Unleashed Potential Experience (UPX) community. In UPX, we offer live community group training and coaching sessions with me and my team. NePoPO® Dog Training and behaviour shaping, personalized coaching one to one live, recorded lives for viewing, supportive and inspiring community of extraordinary growth minded people to help you achieve your dog training goals easier and faster knowing your not alone. For more information and to sign up for my free video series on dog training, visit unleashpotential.ca or dukeferguson.com.

Remember, building a confident, well-adjusted, better version of you and your dog is a process and a journey to honour. With patience and the right approach, you can help your dog overcome their anxieties and thrive.

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.

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.

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.

UPX – Unleashed Potential Experience NePoPo® Dog Training Workshops

November 25, 2023 By Duke Ferguson Leave a Comment

UPX – Unleashed Potential Experience NePoPo® Workshops:

A Journey of Resilience and Learning

Hey, fellow dog trainers, aspiring dog trainers and pet dog owners! It’s Duke Ferguson from Unleashed Potential, and I’ve got some exciting news to share with you. Before we dive into the details of the upcoming UPX – Unleashed Potential K9 Experience NePoPo® workshop, let me take a moment to share a personal journey that has shaped the past few months for me and my family.

In a recent video message, I recently revealed the reason behind the pause in our workshops this summer. My wife’s battle with inflammatory breast cancer became a focal point in our lives. The unexpected diagnosis led us to focus on treatments, prompting a temporary pause from offering workshops. Despite the challenges, we’re resilient, optimistic, and ready to embrace what lies ahead.

Now, let’s shift gears and talk about what’s on the horizon for Unleashed Potential. I’m thrilled to announce that I’m actively planning workshops and shadow programs for the remainder of 2023 and throughout 2024. It’s time to fill your calendars with transformative experiences and unleash your potential!

The Return of UPX Unleashed Potential Experience Workshops: A Unique Learning Opportunity

As we navigate through this journey, I am gearing up to resume workshops and bring you a unique blend of dog training expertise, coaching insights, and a taste of breathwork. Yes, you read that right – I’m incorporating 9D breathwork into the mix to enhance your overall experience.

What Makes UPX Unleashed Potential Experience Workshops Extraordinary?

Well, aside from being a certified Gold NePoPo® Multiplicator and a well-respected dog trainer with close to thirty years of experience, I’ve delved into the realms of high-performance coaching and certified breathwork facilitator. The combination has transformed my life and I can’t wait to share it in my workshops.

What to Expect at the UPX – Unleashed Potential K9 NePoPo® Workshops:

NePoPo® Training: Learn more about NePoPo® – the language of modern dog training.
Coaching Insights: As a certified high-performance coach, I’ll share strategies to enhance your professional journey as a dog trainer or pet owner alike.
Breathwork Experience: Explore the transformative benefits of breathwork, a practice that goes beyond traditional training methods.

Boston Seminar: A Homecoming of Sorts

I’m thrilled to kick off this new chapter with a seminar in Boston on December 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. Interestingly, Boston holds a special place in my heart as the location of my first workshop in the United States many years ago. It’s a full-circle moment, and I can’t wait to reconnect with the dog training community in the area.

How Can You Join?

If you’re as excited as I am about these upcoming Unleashed Potential Experience NePoPo® Dog Training workshops, there are two ways to get involved. You can either host a Unleashed Potential K9 workshop in your area or attend in person or via live stream. For more details and to secure your spot, head over to dukeferguson.com/seminars.

Location Details

When: December 1-3, 2023

Where:

The Happy K-9 Training & Rehabilitation

197 Newbury St, Danvers, MA 01923

A Call for Support and Connection

Before I wrap up, I want to express my gratitude for the incredible support we’ve received during these challenging times. Your prayers and well-wishes have been a source of strength for my family and me. As we embark on this journey, I invite you to be a part of it – attend a workshop, join a live stream, and let’s create lasting connections in the world of dog training.

In the spirit of shared learning and resilience, I look forward to serving you and working together at one of the upcoming Unleashed Potential K9 workshops. Thank you for being a part of our community, and I can’t wait to meet you soon!

Would you like FREE puppy training or dog training advice? OR to just learn more about Unleashed Potential Experience – UPX Membership or NePoPo® philosophy of training?

This mini-series is not found on YouTube. Get Access Now You will love it!

Two Ways to Teach the Heel Position

September 11, 2023 By Duke Ferguson Leave a Comment

Two Ways to Teach the Heel Position

Are your walks with your dog friend turning into a tug-of-war match? Have you been yearning for a leash-walking experience that’s smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free? Well, you’re not alone. We’ve all been there, frustrated with our dog’s inability to stay in the heel position. It might be that your dog does not understand the position. But fear not! In this blog post, we’re going to delve into two ways to teach the heel position to transform your dog’s leash-walking manners and elevate your bonding experience. This is the beginning.

1. The Two-Step: Dancing into the Heel Position

Imagine your walks with your pup as a synchronized dance, where you lead, and your dog gracefully follows your lead. Duke Ferguson Professional dog trainer and NePoPo® Gold Multiplicator, introduces us to the Two-Step technique, a method that’s perfect for those who are mobile and active. With food or high-value treats, a leash, and a positive attitude you’re ready to take the floor. Don’t forget your favourite song.

The premise is simple yet effective:

Is the Dog Hungry Enough to Lure and Reward: Begin with a hungry and food-motivated dog. Hold a treat in your fist, present it to your dog, and observe if they eagerly come forward for it. This willingness to follow the lure is crucial for success.

Two-Step Technique: With your dog on a loose leash, take a step back with your left leg while keeping your right foot planted. As your dog moves toward you, step forward with your right foot, guiding them into the heel position by your side. It’s like a dance of coordination where you lead, and your dog follows.

Mark and Reward: Utilize a marker word like “break” or a clicker to release your dog and reward them for achieving the desired position.

Practice and repetition are key. As your dog becomes accustomed to the Two-Step Tango, you’ll witness them eagerly stepping into the heel position, creating a harmonious flow. Soon to be a great walking experience once you begin motion.

2. Place Board Practice: Tailoring the Heel Position for All Abilities

Not everyone has the same mobility, and Duke Ferguson understands this. For individuals who may have limited mobility, such as those in wheelchairs or with specific physical challenges, the Place Board Perfection technique is a game-changer. It ensures that everyone can participate in shaping & training and bond with their furry companions.

Here’s how it works:

Create a Target: Introduce your dog to a place board. Lure them onto it and encourage them to turn around to face you. This step familiarizes your dog with the target and creates a foundation for the training.

The Turn: With your dog on the place board, guide them into the heel position. This time, you won’t need to step back. Instead, you pivot around the dog, ensuring they are aligned with your leg and in the desired position.

Name the Command: As your dog becomes comfortable with the position on the place board, you can name it using a word like “heel.”

Remember, consistency is key. Practice two ways to teach the heel position techniques daily, dedicating a few minutes to each session, and you’ll witness remarkable progress in your dog’s leash-walking skills. Once your dog knows where you want it to be it’s much easier to begin the walks.

Bonus Tips for Leash Training Success

Duke Ferguson’s wisdom extends beyond the basic techniques. Here are some additional tips to enhance your leash training journey:

1. Motivation Matters: Keep your dog motivated with the food they love and positive reinforcement for these steps is fine.

2. Phasing Away the Lure: Over time, reduce the reliance on treats while maintaining the desired behavior. The goal is to have your dog follow the heel command even without the lure.

3. Variety Is Key: Experiment with different positions, such as the right side or going through your legs. NePoPo® training lets you be creative.

Your Journey to Training Excellence Begins Now

As you embark on this exciting journey of mastering the heel position, remember that Timing, consistency, and motivation are your allies. Whether you’re dancing the Two-Step Tango or perfecting the Place Board Position, the ultimate goal is to build a strong bond and communication with your dog so you can enjoy walks together. OR Dancing. 🙂

If you’re hungry for more dog training insights and want to take your skills to the next level, Join our extraordinary community. Duke Ferguson offers a ton of resources through his Unleashed Potential Experience membership (UPX). This community of like-minded individuals is dedicated to personal development through dog training. Not only will you learn to take you dog training skills to the next level but also your life skills. Duke is not only a pro dog trainer NePoPo® Gold but also a certified high performance coach®. In UPX join Duke Live for coaching, join challenges and grow with a like minded communuty. Dog training and personal development for humans and dogs.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to put on your dancing shoes or create your perfect place and embark on a journey of shaping success. Your dog will thank you for the enriching experience, Happy training! 🐾

Unleashed Potential Place Boards

Would you like FREE puppy training or dog training advice? OR to just learn more about Unleashed Potential Experience – UPX Membership or NePoPo® philosophy of training?