Howdy all!
The pups and people have been away this past week on a much-needed vacation in the Adirondacks. But not to worry, because training hardly stops just because I'm not going to the office! In fact, I have a series of vacation posts all set to publish over the next week... Okay, most of them are set. I still have to write the last one.
To give you a little something until then, I recommend reading about Hounds on the Sound, and maybe even signing up! I would, except that the four of us will be driving back from Chicago that day. So I'll envy the walkers. Besides, nothing like a little charity and exercise with your dog to make the weekend complete.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Friday, July 22, 2011
Too Good To Miss
There's a blog called Hyperbole and a Half which is absolutely hilarious, and I highly recommend for anyone with a soul and a heart.
In particular, the writer has two dogs. She occasionally devotes entire posts to their (mis-)adventures, complete with wonderful, yet often simple, illustrations. You absolutely must read the most recent dog-related post, Wild Animal (The Simple Dog Goes for a Joy Ride). I think she has perfectly captured the world from a dog's perspective.
By the way, I would pay real money to have a signed poster of the very last image in that post.
In particular, the writer has two dogs. She occasionally devotes entire posts to their (mis-)adventures, complete with wonderful, yet often simple, illustrations. You absolutely must read the most recent dog-related post, Wild Animal (The Simple Dog Goes for a Joy Ride). I think she has perfectly captured the world from a dog's perspective.
By the way, I would pay real money to have a signed poster of the very last image in that post.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Click!
I, being a bit fickle, got bored with my training recently. The protocol is excellent for Maxwell, but it's not exactly exciting. Yay, my dog can lie down quietly for 20 seconds! Party time! Wooo! Ahem...
So I've challenged myself to a few new tricks. The first one is for both dogs, and is more of a timing problem than anything. My goal is to be able to stick out my tongue, and have that cue the dogs to lick their noses. The problem is capturing their natural licks quickly and consistently. Plus, I don't think either one has a clue what's making the click happen. Their nose licks are not conscious behaviors, so they may not even be aware that that's what preceded each click. Sadie seems to lick after each bit of kibble, so I can get a pretty constant stream of feedback to her. Maxwell does it much less, and then frantically offers behaviors in the hopes of doing the right one. When none work, he throws himself into a down. But that's only a few minutes of work, so we'll see if either dog picks it up!
I'm also teaching Maxwell to fetch a bath towel. I've started by backchaining it, using the same methods as the tug training. Hold edge of towel and ask him to TAKE IT. Then ask but wait for a light tug as well. We're up to me tossing the towel about 5 feet away, and asking him to GET THE TOWEL. He'll run over, mouth it a bit to get a decent grip, pick up whichever part he grabbed, and take a step or two towards me. That gets heavily rewarded. The cute part is that I can see he wants to actually bring it to me, but gets frustrated when he steps on the trailing end and stops himself. Poor guy, I did catch myself raising the criteria too fast, trying to get the towel all the way to hand. He got so discouraged that I had to click a mere bite to get the behavior chain started again. Learning moment for the trainer! I can't wait until he figures out how to walk without stepping on it. It'll be a great trick when I go swimming at the lake!
I'd like Maxwell to start learning the names of things. It would be awesome to teach him to TAKE, GET, or FIND various objects around the apartment. How great would it be to say FIND YOUR BALL, and have him start hunting for his favorite tennis ball? Or say GET YOUR LEASH and have him bring it to me? I wonder if Sadie would allow herself to be brought over by him pulling on her traffic tab...
A thought for vacation training: teach Sadie to fetch the line on a kayak, thereby bringing a "loose" boat back to shore. That'll take some work, but vacation means lots of free time!
Last thought - Mrs. Trainer lent me Really Reliable Recall tonight. I cannot wait to watch it! Definitely a must-do for the crazy energy dog.
So I've challenged myself to a few new tricks. The first one is for both dogs, and is more of a timing problem than anything. My goal is to be able to stick out my tongue, and have that cue the dogs to lick their noses. The problem is capturing their natural licks quickly and consistently. Plus, I don't think either one has a clue what's making the click happen. Their nose licks are not conscious behaviors, so they may not even be aware that that's what preceded each click. Sadie seems to lick after each bit of kibble, so I can get a pretty constant stream of feedback to her. Maxwell does it much less, and then frantically offers behaviors in the hopes of doing the right one. When none work, he throws himself into a down. But that's only a few minutes of work, so we'll see if either dog picks it up!
I'm also teaching Maxwell to fetch a bath towel. I've started by backchaining it, using the same methods as the tug training. Hold edge of towel and ask him to TAKE IT. Then ask but wait for a light tug as well. We're up to me tossing the towel about 5 feet away, and asking him to GET THE TOWEL. He'll run over, mouth it a bit to get a decent grip, pick up whichever part he grabbed, and take a step or two towards me. That gets heavily rewarded. The cute part is that I can see he wants to actually bring it to me, but gets frustrated when he steps on the trailing end and stops himself. Poor guy, I did catch myself raising the criteria too fast, trying to get the towel all the way to hand. He got so discouraged that I had to click a mere bite to get the behavior chain started again. Learning moment for the trainer! I can't wait until he figures out how to walk without stepping on it. It'll be a great trick when I go swimming at the lake!
I'd like Maxwell to start learning the names of things. It would be awesome to teach him to TAKE, GET, or FIND various objects around the apartment. How great would it be to say FIND YOUR BALL, and have him start hunting for his favorite tennis ball? Or say GET YOUR LEASH and have him bring it to me? I wonder if Sadie would allow herself to be brought over by him pulling on her traffic tab...
A thought for vacation training: teach Sadie to fetch the line on a kayak, thereby bringing a "loose" boat back to shore. That'll take some work, but vacation means lots of free time!
Last thought - Mrs. Trainer lent me Really Reliable Recall tonight. I cannot wait to watch it! Definitely a must-do for the crazy energy dog.
PfR: Day 11
Maxwell is such a good little guy. I did the third set again with him last night and he was, not perfect, but very good. I even did it after a clicker session, so he was a bit keyed up already.
He slides into a sloppy down very quickly now, which I believe to be a good sign. It means he's realizing that WAIT means he's got a while to hang out, and he may as well get comfy. I'll probably just start asking for the DOWN instead of SIT to begin with, so he doesn't completely get in the habit of changing positions after I cue him.
I think he popped up only once, though I'll admit I was probably less distracting than the previous night. It's just too darn hot to be emphatically jogging in place for 20 seconds while waving my arms around like a lunatic. I'll probably move on to the next set tomorrow.
He slides into a sloppy down very quickly now, which I believe to be a good sign. It means he's realizing that WAIT means he's got a while to hang out, and he may as well get comfy. I'll probably just start asking for the DOWN instead of SIT to begin with, so he doesn't completely get in the habit of changing positions after I cue him.
I think he popped up only once, though I'll admit I was probably less distracting than the previous night. It's just too darn hot to be emphatically jogging in place for 20 seconds while waving my arms around like a lunatic. I'll probably move on to the next set tomorrow.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Loose Dog!
As my boyfriend and I were heading out this evening with the dogs, we paused to let them pee next to the sidewalk. I heard an excited child's voice across the street and looked over. Lo and behold, there's a large golden retriever surveying us from the top of a house's steps, clearly escaped from his family.
I have to admit, my communication skills went dead. I held up Maxwell's leash in my boyfriend's face, wanting him to take it from me. (He later asked why I didn't just tell him there was a loose dog.) My eyes never left the strange dog. I found myself making a quick assessment of the situation that went something like this:
The strange pup's name is Toby. He's an overweight, 8-month-old puppy who just wanted to make friends. I managed to step between him and my dogs before contact, and he dropped to the pavement and wriggled the last few inches to Maxwell and Sadie before going belly-up. He didn't mind in the slightest when I grabbed his harness, though the treat shoved in his face certainly didn't hurt. He was a writhing body of happy as he finished greeting his new bestest friends ever, and returned home reluctantly.
His owner met me at her door, very relieved to see him back in one piece. Though the episode probably lasted less than a minute, I can understand the fear that accompanies a missing pet. The child said hello to her puppy, then demanded to know what the names of my dogs were. She gave each of them a cheerful wave and a "Hi Sadie/Maxwell!" as I departed.
We happened to pass them on our way home again, this time with Toby securely leashed. The kid not only remembered us, but called each dog by name. Toby wiggled in ecstasy at seeing his bestest friends again so soon.
Sadie is famous! Check out the article, with a few pictures of her, taken at the dog wash on Sunday.
No training update tonight. I'm way to tired to be a good trainer.
I have to admit, my communication skills went dead. I held up Maxwell's leash in my boyfriend's face, wanting him to take it from me. (He later asked why I didn't just tell him there was a loose dog.) My eyes never left the strange dog. I found myself making a quick assessment of the situation that went something like this:
- Strange dog has friendly posture
- Strange dog is wearing harness
- My dogs are interested but not aroused
- Strange dog is approaching, but with lowered body
- Strange dog is friendly
- My dogs are accepting his approach well
The strange pup's name is Toby. He's an overweight, 8-month-old puppy who just wanted to make friends. I managed to step between him and my dogs before contact, and he dropped to the pavement and wriggled the last few inches to Maxwell and Sadie before going belly-up. He didn't mind in the slightest when I grabbed his harness, though the treat shoved in his face certainly didn't hurt. He was a writhing body of happy as he finished greeting his new bestest friends ever, and returned home reluctantly.
His owner met me at her door, very relieved to see him back in one piece. Though the episode probably lasted less than a minute, I can understand the fear that accompanies a missing pet. The child said hello to her puppy, then demanded to know what the names of my dogs were. She gave each of them a cheerful wave and a "Hi Sadie/Maxwell!" as I departed.
We happened to pass them on our way home again, this time with Toby securely leashed. The kid not only remembered us, but called each dog by name. Toby wiggled in ecstasy at seeing his bestest friends again so soon.
* * * * *
Sadie is famous! Check out the article, with a few pictures of her, taken at the dog wash on Sunday.
* * * * *
No training update tonight. I'm way to tired to be a good trainer.
PfR: Day 10
Maxwell did the third set again tonight, in the middle of regular training. He was very successful, though I may have gotten a bit carried away with my clapping for 10 seconds. I varied the speed and volume of the claps, as well as wiggled around a bit, and he did break. It got him a little wound up, and it took a few minutes for him to fully settle again... but settle he did.
My biggest problem at the moment? I'm getting pretty limited on space for some of the exercises. I can barely walk 10 steps away from the pup in a single direction (down the hall) let alone go to his left, right, and directly ahead.
Both dogs got some refresher training on older cues. For Sadie, that meant crawling, playing dead (BANG!), and directionals. She nailed them all, and even surprised me by finally understanding the directional cues on verbal only! Her understanding isn't perfect, but it's perhaps 75%. And she gives 110% enthusiasm. She nearly took me out at the knees a few times, and definitely whacked herself pretty good in the face with her own tail!
Maxwell got to play hide-and-seek recalls. I love that the game makes something so difficult to train into a real game for the dog. And before you go telling me that recalls are easy, and should be one of the first things the dog learns, I know... it just never manages to make the top of my training priority list. He also got reminder work on bowing, crawling, and rolling over. Plus one good tug in exchange for a cookie.
This weekend we drive up to my parents' cabin in the Adirondacks. My mom will have her cat there. We only overlap for a few hours, but it should be an interesting time. Even with closed doors between them, I predict some over-aroused canines. At least it'll be the start of a full week of playing at the lake!
My biggest problem at the moment? I'm getting pretty limited on space for some of the exercises. I can barely walk 10 steps away from the pup in a single direction (down the hall) let alone go to his left, right, and directly ahead.
Both dogs got some refresher training on older cues. For Sadie, that meant crawling, playing dead (BANG!), and directionals. She nailed them all, and even surprised me by finally understanding the directional cues on verbal only! Her understanding isn't perfect, but it's perhaps 75%. And she gives 110% enthusiasm. She nearly took me out at the knees a few times, and definitely whacked herself pretty good in the face with her own tail!
Maxwell got to play hide-and-seek recalls. I love that the game makes something so difficult to train into a real game for the dog. And before you go telling me that recalls are easy, and should be one of the first things the dog learns, I know... it just never manages to make the top of my training priority list. He also got reminder work on bowing, crawling, and rolling over. Plus one good tug in exchange for a cookie.
This weekend we drive up to my parents' cabin in the Adirondacks. My mom will have her cat there. We only overlap for a few hours, but it should be an interesting time. Even with closed doors between them, I predict some over-aroused canines. At least it'll be the start of a full week of playing at the lake!
Sunday, July 17, 2011
PfR: Day 9
I know, I haven't been nearly as regular about doing the protocol as I said I was going to be. This is an unfortunate case of work getting in the way of life.
Maxwell moved on to the third set of exercises tonight. Instead of doing protocol before any traditional training, as I have all previous nights, I put it in the middle of the session. I don't want him to get complacent about when to chill. He pleasantly surprised me by settling down immediately, sliding from his proper SIT into a relaxed sit, then a sloppy down, during the exercises. He was un-phased by my jogging, clapping, circling, or standing still for 20 full seconds. He broke once, to check out the closet where the kibble and toys are kept. Otherwise he was alert but not hyper-vigilant, and obedient but not anticipatory.
He is still aware of his environment, and turned to check out a few noises at one point. But he did not get up to investigate, and returned his attention to me without prompting. I'll probably only need to do this set one more time, then move on again.
He's getting good at this! I just hope we can begin to apply it to the real world soon. Hopefully learning to relax will also help his new-found reactivity. Keep your fingers crossed for us!
Maxwell moved on to the third set of exercises tonight. Instead of doing protocol before any traditional training, as I have all previous nights, I put it in the middle of the session. I don't want him to get complacent about when to chill. He pleasantly surprised me by settling down immediately, sliding from his proper SIT into a relaxed sit, then a sloppy down, during the exercises. He was un-phased by my jogging, clapping, circling, or standing still for 20 full seconds. He broke once, to check out the closet where the kibble and toys are kept. Otherwise he was alert but not hyper-vigilant, and obedient but not anticipatory.
He is still aware of his environment, and turned to check out a few noises at one point. But he did not get up to investigate, and returned his attention to me without prompting. I'll probably only need to do this set one more time, then move on again.
He's getting good at this! I just hope we can begin to apply it to the real world soon. Hopefully learning to relax will also help his new-found reactivity. Keep your fingers crossed for us!
Sadie, CGC
You read that title right. Sadie took, and passed, the Canine Good Citizen test today. She was really good, though slightly overwhelmed by the whole event. (The test was given at the New Rochelle Humane Society's annual dog wash.) When we did the 'greet a stranger with a dog' she completely ignored the other pup. On receiving the feedback that she had passed, I actually started to tear up a little.
This is a huge milestone for Sadie, and a measure of just how far she has come. When we adopted her over 4 years ago she was highly dog-reactive, had no handler focus, and couldn't be walked loose-leash. There was even a time that her reactivity got so bad, I was afraid to take her out without a prong collar. Now she can remain calm in the middle of a dog-centric event with scores of strange people and dogs milling about, and the worst she did was snatch treats off a table.
Maxwell came to the event as well, though his behavior was a contrast to Sadie's. He fought the Gentle Leader to try to greet strange dogs, had a hard time relaxing when we were all sitting around, and snarked other dogs. Repeatedly. I know he's in his obnoxious teenage phase, but this has got to stop. He's not nearly as food-motivated as Sadie, so I need to figure out how to redirect him when I see it about to happen. A tennis ball might work, but I need to get one of these to carry it more easily everywhere.
Both dogs got some more tug work tonight. Sadie will now offer a brief pull in addition to her enthusiastic bite. I'm confident that she'll be doing some real tugging in another few weeks. Maxwell is offering the pull almost immediately, and will keep the pressure on for at least a second. Once or twice he actual let me drag him down the hall with a nice, strong opposition tug the whole way.
I'm also teaching Maxwell to HUG on cue. The woman who introduced me to Aussies, let's call her Aussie Mom, was at the club yesterday with one of her dogs. When she wanted to pick up the leash, she simply asked her dog to jump up, with her forefeet planted on Aussie Mom's chest, which allowed Aussie Mom to take the leash without bending down. I have to lean waaaaay back before Maxwell will jump and hold the position, as my upright posture is too much pressure for him to come up. As Aussie Mom suggested, I'll slowly work up to standing normally. Baby steps!
This is a huge milestone for Sadie, and a measure of just how far she has come. When we adopted her over 4 years ago she was highly dog-reactive, had no handler focus, and couldn't be walked loose-leash. There was even a time that her reactivity got so bad, I was afraid to take her out without a prong collar. Now she can remain calm in the middle of a dog-centric event with scores of strange people and dogs milling about, and the worst she did was snatch treats off a table.
Maxwell came to the event as well, though his behavior was a contrast to Sadie's. He fought the Gentle Leader to try to greet strange dogs, had a hard time relaxing when we were all sitting around, and snarked other dogs. Repeatedly. I know he's in his obnoxious teenage phase, but this has got to stop. He's not nearly as food-motivated as Sadie, so I need to figure out how to redirect him when I see it about to happen. A tennis ball might work, but I need to get one of these to carry it more easily everywhere.
Both dogs got some more tug work tonight. Sadie will now offer a brief pull in addition to her enthusiastic bite. I'm confident that she'll be doing some real tugging in another few weeks. Maxwell is offering the pull almost immediately, and will keep the pressure on for at least a second. Once or twice he actual let me drag him down the hall with a nice, strong opposition tug the whole way.
I'm also teaching Maxwell to HUG on cue. The woman who introduced me to Aussies, let's call her Aussie Mom, was at the club yesterday with one of her dogs. When she wanted to pick up the leash, she simply asked her dog to jump up, with her forefeet planted on Aussie Mom's chest, which allowed Aussie Mom to take the leash without bending down. I have to lean waaaaay back before Maxwell will jump and hold the position, as my upright posture is too much pressure for him to come up. As Aussie Mom suggested, I'll slowly work up to standing normally. Baby steps!
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Fine Lines And Training Decisions
Today was waaaaay too stressful for me to feel able to properly work on the protocol, so I did grooming and more tug training with both dogs.
As soon as I got settled on the floor with the brush and his dinner, Maxwell just flopped down next to me. He is now very good about brushing, and barely showed annoyance even when I did his breeches. In fact, when I paused to empty the brush, he muzzle-punched my hand to make me start again. I ended up with enough Aussie fur to cover a small puppy. Will he ever run out of undercoat?
I was also happy to see that his tug continues to improve. The very first time I asked him to 'take it' he gave a wonderful yank and earned a nice handful of kibble. Throughout the session, I would estimate that at least 50% of his bites included a light tug or better, which is a huge improvement over his old hold-but-don't-pull.
To test this new-found enthusiasm I tried a few different things. First, I tried playing Gimme A Break between tugs, to see if reducing the pressure to perform would help even more. Instead he just got distracted looking for more kibble on the floor. So scratch that idea. Next I asked him to wait while I walked 7 or 8 feet away. On my release he happily ran for, and grabbed, the toy. Lastly, I just held the toy neutrally to see if he would offer a tug... and he did!
Sadie was much less happy about the brushing, but did fine. Anything to get food.
Her tug has improved even more than Maxwell's. She now eagerly seeks out the toy with a strong bite to earn her kibble. Not that many actual tugs, but this is an enormous improvement as it is. She would jump for the toy, run to it, follow it around as I ran... anything I asked. And for the first time, the food reward didn't actually trump the toy. After her reward she would seek out the toy instead of just sitting, looking pathetic, waiting for more food to appear.
In fact, at one point I dropped a single piece of kibble that she didn't see. I bent down to retrieve it, and she tried to snatch the toy from my hand. Now, I know that I do NOT want my dogs to learn that simply taking things from me is OK. But I also DO want them to be extremely enthusiastic about tug. So I gave her a hearty "yes!" and a huge fistful of kibble. I'm more than happy to reward her offered tugs, since I know that she has extremely good self-control if I ask her to wait for something. I'll start by getting the best tug I can, then put the manners back in.
Overall, an excellent night of training!
As soon as I got settled on the floor with the brush and his dinner, Maxwell just flopped down next to me. He is now very good about brushing, and barely showed annoyance even when I did his breeches. In fact, when I paused to empty the brush, he muzzle-punched my hand to make me start again. I ended up with enough Aussie fur to cover a small puppy. Will he ever run out of undercoat?
I was also happy to see that his tug continues to improve. The very first time I asked him to 'take it' he gave a wonderful yank and earned a nice handful of kibble. Throughout the session, I would estimate that at least 50% of his bites included a light tug or better, which is a huge improvement over his old hold-but-don't-pull.
To test this new-found enthusiasm I tried a few different things. First, I tried playing Gimme A Break between tugs, to see if reducing the pressure to perform would help even more. Instead he just got distracted looking for more kibble on the floor. So scratch that idea. Next I asked him to wait while I walked 7 or 8 feet away. On my release he happily ran for, and grabbed, the toy. Lastly, I just held the toy neutrally to see if he would offer a tug... and he did!
Sadie was much less happy about the brushing, but did fine. Anything to get food.
Her tug has improved even more than Maxwell's. She now eagerly seeks out the toy with a strong bite to earn her kibble. Not that many actual tugs, but this is an enormous improvement as it is. She would jump for the toy, run to it, follow it around as I ran... anything I asked. And for the first time, the food reward didn't actually trump the toy. After her reward she would seek out the toy instead of just sitting, looking pathetic, waiting for more food to appear.
In fact, at one point I dropped a single piece of kibble that she didn't see. I bent down to retrieve it, and she tried to snatch the toy from my hand. Now, I know that I do NOT want my dogs to learn that simply taking things from me is OK. But I also DO want them to be extremely enthusiastic about tug. So I gave her a hearty "yes!" and a huge fistful of kibble. I'm more than happy to reward her offered tugs, since I know that she has extremely good self-control if I ask her to wait for something. I'll start by getting the best tug I can, then put the manners back in.
Overall, an excellent night of training!
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Battle Of The Reinforcers
I'm having a lot of fun training tug with both pups, though I can't help feeling a little foolish. After all, dogs are supposed to love to tug, right? That was the perception I grew up with: tug and fetch were automatic, for all dogs, at all times.
Maxwell certainly enjoys the game. He actually snatched the rope toy out of the closet while I was measuring out their kibble. I asked him to release it, then allowed some light tug (mouthing, really) as a reward before starting work on the Protocol for Relaxation.
Once the tug-work began in earnest, it was very easy to get him to chase the toy... but less so to really tug. Even the tiniest bit of counter-force earns a click, but I wasn't seeing any increase in pull frequency. I've wondered in the past if he has a sensitive mouth, so I changed to a wool loop. Success!
Once he had a softer object, Maxwell was much happier to bite and hold. And once he realized what the clicks were for, he intensified his grip. I got a few really good tugs out of him.
Sadie seemed to like the wool toy better as well. I got her chasing it down the hall as I ran, diving after it on the floor, and leaping to snatch it in the air. I was thrilled that her attention kept going back to the toy, instead of obsessing over the kibble. She still isn't offering real tugs, but just showing interest in the toy is a huge step forwards.
It really is interesting, using one reinforcer (food) to create another (tug game). My goal is to eventually have the tug game be the dogs' reinforcement for other behaviors, like agility work. In the meantime it's a bit like learning a new language. Perro = dog / tug = food.
Now, how does one clean a slobbery wool tug toy?
Maxwell certainly enjoys the game. He actually snatched the rope toy out of the closet while I was measuring out their kibble. I asked him to release it, then allowed some light tug (mouthing, really) as a reward before starting work on the Protocol for Relaxation.
Once the tug-work began in earnest, it was very easy to get him to chase the toy... but less so to really tug. Even the tiniest bit of counter-force earns a click, but I wasn't seeing any increase in pull frequency. I've wondered in the past if he has a sensitive mouth, so I changed to a wool loop. Success!
Once he had a softer object, Maxwell was much happier to bite and hold. And once he realized what the clicks were for, he intensified his grip. I got a few really good tugs out of him.
Sadie seemed to like the wool toy better as well. I got her chasing it down the hall as I ran, diving after it on the floor, and leaping to snatch it in the air. I was thrilled that her attention kept going back to the toy, instead of obsessing over the kibble. She still isn't offering real tugs, but just showing interest in the toy is a huge step forwards.
It really is interesting, using one reinforcer (food) to create another (tug game). My goal is to eventually have the tug game be the dogs' reinforcement for other behaviors, like agility work. In the meantime it's a bit like learning a new language. Perro = dog / tug = food.
Now, how does one clean a slobbery wool tug toy?
PfR: Day 8
Tonight I made the second set of exercises even more challenging. I added more random movements, louder clapping, and elevation changes. It may have been a little too much, as he broke a handful of times, but overall it was still excellent.
More and more I'm finding that his eyes are glued to me as I privately make a fool of myself. It's like he's thinking 'If I just wait here quietly long enough, she'll stop waving her arms like a nutcase, right?" Or maybe it's just concern for my mental health. Either way, I love it!
While his focus on me has intensified, his overall posture has softened. He does very little looking around the room, and has begun flopping down with his hind end to one side as he awaits his treat. The hair-trigger leap forwards at the slightest provocation is no longer in evidence. Tomorrow we move on to set 3!
Question: Now that I have a couple solid sets in a highly controlled environment, can I move them to a quiet outdoors spot, and keep moving along inside with the rest of the protocol? Or should I wait until I have every set perfected inside before I add a new level of distraction to the easiest ones?
More and more I'm finding that his eyes are glued to me as I privately make a fool of myself. It's like he's thinking 'If I just wait here quietly long enough, she'll stop waving her arms like a nutcase, right?" Or maybe it's just concern for my mental health. Either way, I love it!
While his focus on me has intensified, his overall posture has softened. He does very little looking around the room, and has begun flopping down with his hind end to one side as he awaits his treat. The hair-trigger leap forwards at the slightest provocation is no longer in evidence. Tomorrow we move on to set 3!
Question: Now that I have a couple solid sets in a highly controlled environment, can I move them to a quiet outdoors spot, and keep moving along inside with the rest of the protocol? Or should I wait until I have every set perfected inside before I add a new level of distraction to the easiest ones?
Round And Round And Round They Go...
Today the dogs went running with me before work (3.75 miles), walked to get ice cream in the heat after work (~2 miles) and then wanted to play after dinner. Not just play, run. My boyfriend got Maxwell all worked up, which isn't that hard to do, but then Maxwell got Sadie going, and it just went crazy from there.
So we had the pup racing back and forth from the bedroom to the front door, grabbing Sadie by whatever he could grab on the way. She would tackle him as he approached and try to pull him down, and then follow a few steps as he retreated. Repeat.
Then Boyfriend started roughing her up as she went past him, and she started to actually run after Maxwell. So I began running and hiding in random places when the dogs were in the front of the apartment, which sent Sadie into search mode. So now Sadie is running like a maniac trying to find me, and Maxwell is chasing her trying to grab her with his (rather visible) teeth.
The final straw came when I hid behind the bed. Sadie came flying into the room with Maxwell hot on her heels. She banked off the end of the bed and went careening back out of the room, down the hall, and back. We got her to keep it up for a few runs, which was fun with both dogs being a little nuts.
What makes this even better is that I can't remember the last time Sadie went zoomy. I know she did a few time way back when we first started agility classes... but that was nearly 2 years ago now! It was really nice to see the inner puppy in her again.
A few other tidbits:
Vote for ARPH (The Aussie Rescue and Placement Helpline) on PetFinder's partner, the animal rescue site. Click the link, type in "Aussie Rescue and Placement Helpline" for the shelter name, and select "PA" for the state. Then vote! Vote early, vote often, as they say.
Also, I found this awesome video on counterconditioning. I wish everyone I've ever talked to about their 'problem dog' could see this. It's how I taught Sadie not to react (badly) to other dogs when she was on leash, and it greatly changed our lives for the better.
One last video, of some guy who thinks he's the greatest dog trainer ever, as far as I can tell. I actually started to laugh out loud as I watched it, it was just so incredibly ridiculous. Apparently what he considers positive reinforcement is 'good dog' when the animal does the right thing, and positive punishment when they do something bad/unwanted/annoying. (That reminds me of another video a trainer/fellow agility student at the club sent around recently about rewarding your dog) According to this guy, I am a follower to both the dogs in my household because I hand-feed them, and there is no way they can possibly be learning anything from me. At least this is one of the few internet videos where I can say the viewers' comments were spot-on.
So we had the pup racing back and forth from the bedroom to the front door, grabbing Sadie by whatever he could grab on the way. She would tackle him as he approached and try to pull him down, and then follow a few steps as he retreated. Repeat.
Then Boyfriend started roughing her up as she went past him, and she started to actually run after Maxwell. So I began running and hiding in random places when the dogs were in the front of the apartment, which sent Sadie into search mode. So now Sadie is running like a maniac trying to find me, and Maxwell is chasing her trying to grab her with his (rather visible) teeth.
The final straw came when I hid behind the bed. Sadie came flying into the room with Maxwell hot on her heels. She banked off the end of the bed and went careening back out of the room, down the hall, and back. We got her to keep it up for a few runs, which was fun with both dogs being a little nuts.
What makes this even better is that I can't remember the last time Sadie went zoomy. I know she did a few time way back when we first started agility classes... but that was nearly 2 years ago now! It was really nice to see the inner puppy in her again.
* * * * *
A few other tidbits:
Vote for ARPH (The Aussie Rescue and Placement Helpline) on PetFinder's partner, the animal rescue site. Click the link, type in "Aussie Rescue and Placement Helpline" for the shelter name, and select "PA" for the state. Then vote! Vote early, vote often, as they say.
Also, I found this awesome video on counterconditioning. I wish everyone I've ever talked to about their 'problem dog' could see this. It's how I taught Sadie not to react (badly) to other dogs when she was on leash, and it greatly changed our lives for the better.
One last video, of some guy who thinks he's the greatest dog trainer ever, as far as I can tell. I actually started to laugh out loud as I watched it, it was just so incredibly ridiculous. Apparently what he considers positive reinforcement is 'good dog' when the animal does the right thing, and positive punishment when they do something bad/unwanted/annoying. (That reminds me of another video a trainer/fellow agility student at the club sent around recently about rewarding your dog) According to this guy, I am a follower to both the dogs in my household because I hand-feed them, and there is no way they can possibly be learning anything from me. At least this is one of the few internet videos where I can say the viewers' comments were spot-on.
Monday, July 11, 2011
PfR: Days 6 and 7
It was a CRAZY weekend, so I didn't get to train much. I worked with the pups last night and tonight, though.
Maxwell has moved on to the second set of exercises in the protocol. He was flawless last night, not breaking once. I did, however, notice that he's reluctant to sit immediately when asked. I've started reinforcing the initial sit about 80% of the time as well as each step of the set 100%. That helped.
I've also started either tossing a treat or asking for an unrelated behavior (like touch) to get him on his feet between exercises. What I'm really loving is that, not only does the protocol seem to be helping him relax, but he's now racing back to me in anticipation of another cue. It's a two-fer!
Tonight we did the second set again, but I'm being more distracting. Instead of just standing quietly for the counts, I wiggle and shift my weight. Instead of lightly jogging in place, I wave my arms around as well. And when I walk half-way around him, I pause behind his back. He broke exactly twice, and the second time was because something heavy fell nearby and startled him (and me)! One more day, then I expect we'll move on to set 3.
Last night Sadie got to work on her directionals. She finally seems to have the verbal 'right' cue without hand signal support. 'Left' is less strong, but getting better. I've faded the hand signal to a flick of the finger. Also, her turns are getting more accurate. As in, she slams into me much less often. My feet and knees are quite happy about that.
Tonight she got to do some tug-work. When really riled up she will tug a bit, but it's not a behavior she offers on her own. I'm starting it much like you would back-chain a retrieve, simple asking for her to put her mouth on the rope. We worked up to jumping up for it or lifting it a few inches from the ground. However, she will not interact with the toy if I'm not holding it. No matter what. After the kibble was gone she got some leftover steak. That made the grabs more enthusiastic, but she still won't offer duration or independence on the bite.
Maxwell also got some tug work with his remaining kibble and the other half of the steak. He will offer a light bite/hold, so I'm rewarding long holds (over 3 seconds or so) and counter-force to my grip. There is some improvement, but even he is still a long way from being a tug-nut.
Maxwell has moved on to the second set of exercises in the protocol. He was flawless last night, not breaking once. I did, however, notice that he's reluctant to sit immediately when asked. I've started reinforcing the initial sit about 80% of the time as well as each step of the set 100%. That helped.
I've also started either tossing a treat or asking for an unrelated behavior (like touch) to get him on his feet between exercises. What I'm really loving is that, not only does the protocol seem to be helping him relax, but he's now racing back to me in anticipation of another cue. It's a two-fer!
Tonight we did the second set again, but I'm being more distracting. Instead of just standing quietly for the counts, I wiggle and shift my weight. Instead of lightly jogging in place, I wave my arms around as well. And when I walk half-way around him, I pause behind his back. He broke exactly twice, and the second time was because something heavy fell nearby and startled him (and me)! One more day, then I expect we'll move on to set 3.
* * * * *
Last night Sadie got to work on her directionals. She finally seems to have the verbal 'right' cue without hand signal support. 'Left' is less strong, but getting better. I've faded the hand signal to a flick of the finger. Also, her turns are getting more accurate. As in, she slams into me much less often. My feet and knees are quite happy about that.
Tonight she got to do some tug-work. When really riled up she will tug a bit, but it's not a behavior she offers on her own. I'm starting it much like you would back-chain a retrieve, simple asking for her to put her mouth on the rope. We worked up to jumping up for it or lifting it a few inches from the ground. However, she will not interact with the toy if I'm not holding it. No matter what. After the kibble was gone she got some leftover steak. That made the grabs more enthusiastic, but she still won't offer duration or independence on the bite.
Maxwell also got some tug work with his remaining kibble and the other half of the steak. He will offer a light bite/hold, so I'm rewarding long holds (over 3 seconds or so) and counter-force to my grip. There is some improvement, but even he is still a long way from being a tug-nut.
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Guilt, And A Revelation
One rough week at work, and I feel like I've neglected my dogs. Not even a full week, either! With my extra-long hours in the office and subsequent lack of sleep, I just have not been able to train or even play with the dogs much. We've only gone running once this week.
Today I got home late, hot, and tired. Not in a good mood, and too exhausted to be in a bad one. Sadie gave her usual snot-to-the-pants greeting then did her own thing. Maxwell wagged his whole body in happiness, then followed my everywhere. Ok, so he preceded me everywhere at high speed. Same thing.
I just plain fed the dogs their dinners, right from their bowls, which is somewhat unusual. I used the time to comb Maxwell. He has gotten so good about grooming, that he just once nosed my hand. And when I stopped, he look at me like "Well, I didn't actually want you to stop!"
I feel so guilty about not spending more time with them, even though I know it's short-term. Sadie mopes about, watching me with sad eyes. I gave her some ear-rubs and a neck massage. Maxwell just acted like life was wonderful, offering attention, asking for rubs, and following me everywhere. But it wasn't overwhelming, either, like he was begging for attention. It was just his normal happy self. It made me realize that this, the bond he and I have, is what a partnership really is. No judgement, no pressure, just being yourself to your fullest. It was a bit of an eye-opener. I love Sadie very much, but what Maxwell and I have is just different. It's somehow more, without any kind of effort.
I think the no-pressure affection got me far more than my self-imposed guilt. I spent a few minute - maybe 5 tops - playing fetch with my little guy. And it was exactly what I needed.
Today I got home late, hot, and tired. Not in a good mood, and too exhausted to be in a bad one. Sadie gave her usual snot-to-the-pants greeting then did her own thing. Maxwell wagged his whole body in happiness, then followed my everywhere. Ok, so he preceded me everywhere at high speed. Same thing.
I just plain fed the dogs their dinners, right from their bowls, which is somewhat unusual. I used the time to comb Maxwell. He has gotten so good about grooming, that he just once nosed my hand. And when I stopped, he look at me like "Well, I didn't actually want you to stop!"
I feel so guilty about not spending more time with them, even though I know it's short-term. Sadie mopes about, watching me with sad eyes. I gave her some ear-rubs and a neck massage. Maxwell just acted like life was wonderful, offering attention, asking for rubs, and following me everywhere. But it wasn't overwhelming, either, like he was begging for attention. It was just his normal happy self. It made me realize that this, the bond he and I have, is what a partnership really is. No judgement, no pressure, just being yourself to your fullest. It was a bit of an eye-opener. I love Sadie very much, but what Maxwell and I have is just different. It's somehow more, without any kind of effort.
I think the no-pressure affection got me far more than my self-imposed guilt. I spent a few minute - maybe 5 tops - playing fetch with my little guy. And it was exactly what I needed.
Phantom Class
I was supposed to start a brand new class with Sadie tonight, called Jump Combos. I was super-excited to:
I went to the main level to ask. The instructor there turned out to be my new one's sister. Apparently my instructor was told by the registrar that nobody had signed up, so the class was cancelled. Of course, I had the confirmation email from when I signed up and already paid in full...
One of the women in the class there said I should "make a huge fuss" or some such nonsense. Mistakes happen, though I must say I am more than a little irritated. I was really looking forward to this class, and never got any notice that it wasn't running.
I have emailed the registrar with the pertinent details. Update to follow...
- Have a third class
- Have a brand new agility class
- Work with a new instructor
- Work in a new training room (the brand new upper level of the club)
I went to the main level to ask. The instructor there turned out to be my new one's sister. Apparently my instructor was told by the registrar that nobody had signed up, so the class was cancelled. Of course, I had the confirmation email from when I signed up and already paid in full...
One of the women in the class there said I should "make a huge fuss" or some such nonsense. Mistakes happen, though I must say I am more than a little irritated. I was really looking forward to this class, and never got any notice that it wasn't running.
I have emailed the registrar with the pertinent details. Update to follow...
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
PfR: Day 5
Looooong day at work today, so I ended up doing a very short session with each dog.
For Sadie, we are rebuilding her call-off from her dinner bowl. I let her see me take some super-yummy treats, then released her to her kibble. After a few gulps I called her away. She came! For that, she earned a cookie and release back to her bowl. It was odd, though, that the first call-off was the most prompt.
For Maxwell, I did a few relaxation exercises at random. I counted aloud and to myself, walked around him, skipped away, and did a few other odd things. He was great. I still see improvement in his posture as he stays loose despite my goofiness, and he's less hyper-alert. We finished with a few directionals (right and left circles) and reminders of some cues we don't use very often ("pound it" and "bow").
A short session, but a successful one.
For Sadie, we are rebuilding her call-off from her dinner bowl. I let her see me take some super-yummy treats, then released her to her kibble. After a few gulps I called her away. She came! For that, she earned a cookie and release back to her bowl. It was odd, though, that the first call-off was the most prompt.
For Maxwell, I did a few relaxation exercises at random. I counted aloud and to myself, walked around him, skipped away, and did a few other odd things. He was great. I still see improvement in his posture as he stays loose despite my goofiness, and he's less hyper-alert. We finished with a few directionals (right and left circles) and reminders of some cues we don't use very often ("pound it" and "bow").
A short session, but a successful one.
Off-Grid And Off-Leash
The three of us had a great time in the woods this past weekend, despite the 5 hour drive to get there!
It started off awesome when I unleashed both dogs before I released them from the car. Predictably, they both bolted. The great thing was that they both stayed close and came with me when I walked to the house. After that, I was convinced: Maxwell could stay off-leash whenever I deemed it safe. Sadie is already very reliable, since she's a clingy home-body at heart.
I made a 10 foot drag line for the puppy, as well as a nearly 30 foot tether. I didn't use the tether even once, and the drag line was great for walking on the roads. I could snag him when cars or other dogs came along, but let him loose most of the time. By the way, making your own stuff is easy and cheap! Rope + leash clips cost under $15. I got splicing instructions off the internet, and made two nicely finished items in perhaps an hour.
Sadie had an absolute blast chasing Maxwell through the forest and swimming after sticks. Poor thing over-did it on Sunday, though. I noticed that she was keeping her tail straight down without wagging when she was standing, and had a tough time sitting. Even when she did sit, it was with her tail on the floor between her legs. I think she pulled a muscle mildly, as she's already much better.
Maxwell still doesn't want to swim, but did with a little, ahem, help. I held him just past where he could stand and put a ball right in front of his nose. He could have panicked and just swam for land, but the ball was just too tempting! Of course, once he grabbed the ball and got back to shore, he took off with it into the woods in what I can only assume was the canine version of 'the finger.'
Despite the non-swimming, I did learn something interesting about my little guy and water. If the stick doesn't bob up to the surface immediately, he has no problem dunking his head past the ears into the lake to get it.
Both dogs got ridiculous amounts of table scraps. I figure they were more than burning enough calories outside to make up for it. Plus, out in the woods has got to be the best place to give two dogs raw chicken necks... you don't need to worry about the mess on the floor!
Luckily, the four of us (2 humans, 2 dogs) will be going back for a whole 9 days in just a few weeks! And to think, the dogs are still recovering today after a mere 3-day trip.
Happy trails and tails!
It started off awesome when I unleashed both dogs before I released them from the car. Predictably, they both bolted. The great thing was that they both stayed close and came with me when I walked to the house. After that, I was convinced: Maxwell could stay off-leash whenever I deemed it safe. Sadie is already very reliable, since she's a clingy home-body at heart.
I made a 10 foot drag line for the puppy, as well as a nearly 30 foot tether. I didn't use the tether even once, and the drag line was great for walking on the roads. I could snag him when cars or other dogs came along, but let him loose most of the time. By the way, making your own stuff is easy and cheap! Rope + leash clips cost under $15. I got splicing instructions off the internet, and made two nicely finished items in perhaps an hour.
Sadie had an absolute blast chasing Maxwell through the forest and swimming after sticks. Poor thing over-did it on Sunday, though. I noticed that she was keeping her tail straight down without wagging when she was standing, and had a tough time sitting. Even when she did sit, it was with her tail on the floor between her legs. I think she pulled a muscle mildly, as she's already much better.
Maxwell still doesn't want to swim, but did with a little, ahem, help. I held him just past where he could stand and put a ball right in front of his nose. He could have panicked and just swam for land, but the ball was just too tempting! Of course, once he grabbed the ball and got back to shore, he took off with it into the woods in what I can only assume was the canine version of 'the finger.'
Despite the non-swimming, I did learn something interesting about my little guy and water. If the stick doesn't bob up to the surface immediately, he has no problem dunking his head past the ears into the lake to get it.
Both dogs got ridiculous amounts of table scraps. I figure they were more than burning enough calories outside to make up for it. Plus, out in the woods has got to be the best place to give two dogs raw chicken necks... you don't need to worry about the mess on the floor!
Luckily, the four of us (2 humans, 2 dogs) will be going back for a whole 9 days in just a few weeks! And to think, the dogs are still recovering today after a mere 3-day trip.
Happy trails and tails!
Friday, July 1, 2011
PfR: Day 4
We did a short session tonight, as I'm pretty fried from work.
With Maxwell, I did not follow the protocol. I instead used the exercises we've been doing, plus a little creativity, to create my own session. Maxwell sticks in his sit or down very nicely now. We still need to work on the "relaxation" part, but I'm confident that will come.
He stayed put for my counting aloud (which included not a few yawns), walking around him, and tapping on a window across the room. Picking up a chew toy and tossing it in the air was a bit much. He shifted forward sharply, fully alert, but didn't break his down.
For now, I'm just trying to fix Sadie's behavior slide around food. We used to be able to call her off her dinner mid-chew. Now she makes a weight shift in my direction, but chows down even more frantically than before. It's like she wants to come, but has to finish the kibble first.
I'm using treats to try and give the call-off more value than the kibble. Limited success at this point, since she doesn't seem to want to risk leaving the food. Suggestions?
PS - I'm taking the dogs upstate for the long weekend, so it's radio silence for a bit. Have fun with your dogs over the holiday!
With Maxwell, I did not follow the protocol. I instead used the exercises we've been doing, plus a little creativity, to create my own session. Maxwell sticks in his sit or down very nicely now. We still need to work on the "relaxation" part, but I'm confident that will come.
He stayed put for my counting aloud (which included not a few yawns), walking around him, and tapping on a window across the room. Picking up a chew toy and tossing it in the air was a bit much. He shifted forward sharply, fully alert, but didn't break his down.
For now, I'm just trying to fix Sadie's behavior slide around food. We used to be able to call her off her dinner mid-chew. Now she makes a weight shift in my direction, but chows down even more frantically than before. It's like she wants to come, but has to finish the kibble first.
I'm using treats to try and give the call-off more value than the kibble. Limited success at this point, since she doesn't seem to want to risk leaving the food. Suggestions?
PS - I'm taking the dogs upstate for the long weekend, so it's radio silence for a bit. Have fun with your dogs over the holiday!
Color Me Impressed
On our morning run today, we passed several dogs. Most were small, and of the leash-straining-and-snarling variety, plus one medium curious-but-timid. One dog, though, stuck out.
Around the 3-mile mark, I noticed a woman walking her large dog towards us. I groaned inwardly, as it was at a spot where the sidewalk is narrow, there is a hedge directly to one side, and only a narrow strip of grass on the other. Sadie already had her ears perked a block away, and Maxwell was pulling hard.
The woman casually stepped off the sidewalk onto the grass as we neared. Her dog glanced at us then followed his owner, giving her his full attention. She said nothing, but simply raised a single finger in almost a 'shush' motion. The dog sat, and didn't even turn to watch us struggle past. (Way to make me look good, Maxwell. I LOVE when my dog acts out of control in public!)
The strange dog was, of course, an Aussie.
Around the 3-mile mark, I noticed a woman walking her large dog towards us. I groaned inwardly, as it was at a spot where the sidewalk is narrow, there is a hedge directly to one side, and only a narrow strip of grass on the other. Sadie already had her ears perked a block away, and Maxwell was pulling hard.
The woman casually stepped off the sidewalk onto the grass as we neared. Her dog glanced at us then followed his owner, giving her his full attention. She said nothing, but simply raised a single finger in almost a 'shush' motion. The dog sat, and didn't even turn to watch us struggle past. (Way to make me look good, Maxwell. I LOVE when my dog acts out of control in public!)
The strange dog was, of course, an Aussie.
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