positive reinforcement

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:

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.
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.
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

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.

Vizsla Puppy Training | Teach Fetch

March 19, 2021 By Duke Ferguson 1 Comment

Vizsla Fetch Training – Teach ANY Puppy the Game of Fetch Using Food and Toys

This video will show you how to teach fetch using food and a toy with a vizsla puppy. If you’re looking for tips on how to easily train your puppy how to fetch and what you’ve been doing so far isn’t working, this video will show you a bunch of tips on how to successfully get your puppy to fetch! For puppy training tips, watch this video and set the stage for an awesome retrieve!

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SUMMARY

The reason I use food, in the beginning, is that not all puppies or dogs have the drive to play (prey drive) and therefore, we have to ignite that and channel it.
When the dog’s mindset changes we can channel that play to toys in correlation with food.
Socialize your puppy using food and touch.
It’s easy to transition from food to a toy by throwing the toy and when as he’s coming back to you walk backwards, kneel down and reel him in like a fish and pay him with food.
To get your puppy to let things go, don’t pull it from him, instead hold the item and make it ‘go dead’. As soon as he lets it go, you can play again. He learns, “by letting go, play happens.”
Once your puppy or dog learns to fetch items you can then incorporate obedience fetch. This is where the dog must think and do something for the fetch game to happen.
Obedience fetch works both the mind and the body.

VIZSLA PUPPY TRAINING | STEPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL FETCH

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Full Transcript –

Vizsla Puppy Training | Teach Fetch Using Food and Toys

[The following is the full transcript of this YouTube video. Please note that this video, features Duke speaking extemporaneously–he is unscripted and unedited. Filmed in one take].

Hey there, it’s Duke Ferguson. How would you like your puppy to go out, grab something, and bring it back to you? If you want to learn how to do that…In this video, I’m going to teach you hands-on a little Vizsla puppy. Awesome little guy. I’m going to show you exactly how to get it done successfully with your dog. Be sure to watch the video the whole way through, because it’s jam-packed full of tips. In fact, grab a pen and a piece of paper. You’ll learn little things on socialization, how to get your puppy to let things go, how to get calm grips. And you’re going to see if you watch all the way through a mistake that I made you won’t see it. But I point it out at the end because I noticed it. And I want you to get the most out of this video, what you won’t do.

You’ll get to see that in the video because it’s really easy to not see. If you like this video help me help you click the notification, click the little light, thumbs up, all that cool stuff so that when a video drops, you’ll be the first to know. We have a little puppy. And despite all of the drills we can do, right, I’m going to actually, this guy has got drive. He’s got heart, he’s got everything I’d want to see, look at this. And come right in here too. So I have this desire, right? For food. And he’s got prey drive as well. He’s going to chase stuff and he wants to do things, but some dogs don’t. So in the very beginning, I want a dog to run away and come back. So I play a game.

All right. And the reason I use food first is because not all puppies are not all dogs have drive the drive to play or prey drive. And we have to kind of ignite that and channel it. Even if a dog has very little to no desire to play, we can use food in the beginning and start the play process. And as the dog’s mindset changes and the way they think and the way they feel about it, we can channel that play to toys in correlation with the food. So then all of a sudden with dating, we could call it or with these interactions in a good way, especially when it’s survival and when it’s all good things, but he learns to play. Now, what is play? Play is with toys. It’s interactive with us, but his type of play is wanting to bite and bite.

Even if a dog has very little to no desire to play, we can use food in the beginning and start the play process.

That’s a normal puppy. So one of the things I like to teach for the majority of dogs, especially with a hunting dog, I don’t want to play tug of war with a hunting dog, right? Fetch. I’m telling you to fetch. If you have a dog who has the desire to want to go and get it, I can have him run after the food, tell him to fetch. And he comes back to me and I’m already socializing him to come through here, he’s already standing. And Darren, you can do this as well for, with him, right? But if a dog is engaged with the food, he can’t bite you. So now I’m not getting bit. So this is all part of socialization. You’ve got a big, scary guy leaning over a dog. All right. He learns to do these things. He’s getting a ton of…break, and I can just throw it. Now,

where does this have to do with retrieval? He comes back, well, you need a dog to go away and you need a dog to come back. He’s learning to go after this. Let’s say, and you wouldn’t have to do this. If you had a dog with prey drive, I would start this with any dog. Um, regardless, but the dog that doesn’t like the toys, this is definitely your start. So you just throw it out. Okay. They have their marks established. What do they do when they want the food? They come back to you. So you’re already actually priming a recall. The dog comes. Simple. I’ve done nothing but talk. So, once I do the food and I know I don’t need to with him, okay, I’ll go with a little toy. Right? And I want to teach him to fetch something. So the first thing you need to do, right?

And especially, listen. If your dog is grabbing things for your attention and chasing you or getting you to chase them around, you know, and doing things, you’re already training them to do that. So I’m going to get his attention. He’s aroused. You see where he wants this and I’m going to throw it and I’m going to get the lead and I’m going to walk backwards and I’m going to kneel down and I’m going to reel him in like a little fish. Look at him. Hey, okay. Good job, buddy. Good job. And if he wants to hold on to that, come on, right in here. I’m letting him you can hold onto that little buddy. And then just calm. And then I just hold the toy and I wait, I let it go dead. I make it go dead. I just bring it in see. He wants to play on it.

Good. And then we’ll play again. As soon as he lets go. Okay, I’m going to start teasing them again a little bit. And I’m going to just throw it now. Why? I didn’t say fetch. Good boy. Hey, look at this right to me. Okay. That’s natural. Okay. I’m holding him there. And this is learning to go get something and bring it back to Duke. And, Oh my gosh. I get paid. If that guy had his treat pouch on and could feed me here. So he learns, especially if your dog likes it, I like to play to chase this. I like to pick it up and bring it back. That’s a God sent. If you have a dog like that, the thing is, what if they don’t you shape it the same way. So if your dog doesn’t like it, which he does, but for example, I throw it.

The puppy is learning to go get something and bring it back to Duke. And… oh my gosh. I get paid!

I know, he goes and he gets it. I have the leash and I’m going backwards because I want him to come and follow me or chase me. And I put my hand out already to get it from him. Right. Usually, it’s the left hand. And then I’m going to say what a good boy you are. Thank you. And I’m going to give them a piece of food. Do I have to give him the food? No, but it’s double reward probably more than double reward. Cause I tease him here. He’s aroused. He’s like, Hey, but this is a dog that likes to bite your pant legs and hump you and do things, which is a normal, strong little puppy. Okay. Fetch. Now, why did I say fetch? Because I know without reasonable doubt, that thought was going to go get it. Guaranteed. Good job, man.

And then I bring him in and I just let him hold it. I don’t take it right away. Good job. Way to go. Okay. And he lets it out on his own. He spits it out on his own. If I want them to have good grips. Fetch. I’ll build that. Him, I don’t care he’s soft grips. Just don’t let it go. So notice I’m pulling him in and he’s trying to go that way. That’s where I go the other way. Hey buddy. Hey buddy. Let’s go. And the reason why this works, obviously he has to come with me with the leash, but in the beginning, I threw food. He came back, I threw food. He came back. Now I throw good job, buddy. I throw this…little throw and he comes back. Right. He tries. And if he wants to run away and I’ll let that happen right now.

But I would say two fetches ago. Yeah. Is a good time to end this session. I’m a little bit long now. Cause he started going to go the other way. He was successful. Always end on success, where he wins and you win. You got what you wanted and when he wants one more fetch, stop it, only do one or two. I know I did a lot more for this, um, this video two or three fetches. And then when the dog says, yeah, I want one more. And then they got a lot of energy four fetches, five fetches. Now when you have a fetch game and they like it you’re burning off physical energy. The next thing I want you to do is to incorporate obedience training, which meaning thinking dog. Your terminology for obedience might be different than mine, but obedience training, meaning the dog says, I want the ball.

Now when you have a fetch game and they like it you’re burning off physical energy.

I want the retrieve, but I don’t want my dog senselessly, just running back and forth to become an athlete and still reactive. So I just wait and they do something. They sit, they lay down and they pay attention and I release them. “Break” and I give them a reward which you’ll see in other videos, but that’s called obedience fetch. The best thing you can do for your dog relationship burning off energy and everything. Hey, I hope you found this video of value. If you did, let me know your biggest takeaway down below. If you’d like to sign up for my free mini-course, there are six videos you can sign up for in the link down here. And if you’d like to learn more about obedience fetch kind of get the concept. I have a video right here and you can click that into that as well. So I hope that’s great. Thanks for watching. Make sure you subscribe, click the like and do all that cool stuff so that I can connect with you again. See you soon.