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CLICKER TRAINING - TARGETING

One of the commonly-taught (and extremely useful) exercise for dogs who learn to play the clicker game, is, "Targeting," or touching a target - usually, at first, with their noses, then maybe with a paw, then maybe whacking the target (a stick, a margarine lid) with the paw.

The reason clicker-trainers teach "touch" or "target" is, the skill has millions of uses - you can go just about anywhere with a dog who knows how to target something.

If you work on targeting, again, train the dogs separately first. Teach the dog to touch your fist, or little finger, or open palm, with its nose. Then try other targets (keeping in mind the size of your dog). The dogs (individually) quickly catch on to touch the object; then they get a click and a treat for touching. Try to click exactly as the dog touches the object.

Once they've learned "Touch," work with the dogs in front of you at once. First say the name of one dog: "Charlie. Touch." He touches, and gets his click/treat. The other dog has to wait. (See the relationship with the "One for Charlie. One for Sam." game?) Then say; "Sam. Touch." He touches, gets his click/treat. Now it's Charlie's turn again. Put all kinds of variations into this game. Both dogs learn to be attentive, to wait their turns, to know which dog you're working with (just for an instant each).

Work sits and downs this way also. Sometimes do a "Key-All, Sit.". Then both dogs are required to sit at the same time.

The effect on the dogs and their relationship - and their relationship with the owner - is excellent. Again, do this in VERY short sessions. One session can be done in 30 seconds, or take 5 minutes and vary the cues.

This article is from postings by Carol Whitney, who graciously consents to the use of her insightful material. Carol can be reached at cwhitney@islandnet.com Please observe the copyright statement at the end of this article.
Copyright 1999 by Carol Whitney. Right to publish on www.pgaa.com granted to Pet Guardian Angels of America. Contact the author for permission to reprint elsewhere.

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