How To Successfully Fade The Lure In Dog Training
Dog training is a critical activity that every dog owner should prioritize. However, this process can be challenging if you lack the skills and knowledge required. One of the essential aspects of dog training is to fade the lure. Fading the lure means gradually reducing the use of a treat or toy as a reward to prompt your dog's behavior. This technique is beneficial because it helps your dog learn how to obey commands without expecting treats or toys. So, how can you successfully fade the lure in dog training? In this blog post, we'll guide you through the process to ensure your dog becomes well-trained and obedient.
1. Start with the basics
When you begin the training process, it's essential to start with the basics, such as sit, stay, and come. You can use a treat or toy to lure your dog into performing these behaviors. However, you should reduce the lure gradually. For instance, instead of holding the treat or toy close to your dog's nose, start holding it a little further away. Eventually, your dog will learn to obey the command without expecting a reward each time.
2. Use a verbal cue
Once your dog can effectively perform a basic behavior without a lure, you can introduce a verbal cue. For example, if you want your dog to sit, say "sit" repeatedly until your dog obeys the command. Eventually, your dog will learn to associate the verbal cue with the behavior, and you can stop using the lure.
3. Use intermittent reinforcement
Intermittent reinforcement means sometimes rewarding your dog with a treat or toy and sometimes not. This way, your dog won't expect a treat or toy every time they obey a command. Once your dog is well-trained, you can switch to using praise and affection as rewards instead of treats or toys.
4. Increase the difficulty level
After your dog is well-trained in basic behaviors, you can start increasing the difficulty level. For instance, if your dog can sit when you're close to them, try asking them to sit when you're a little further away. This approach challenges your dog to obey commands without expecting rewards, and it enhances their obedience skills.
5. Be patient and consistent
Fading the lure in dog training takes time and requires patience and consistency. You need to be patient as you gradually reduce the lure and consistent in your approach. With time, your dog will learn to obey commands even without a reward, and you'll have a well-trained and obedient furry friend.
Conclusion
Fading the lure is a vital aspect of dog training that requires patience, consistency, and the right approach. Starting with basic behaviors, using verbal cues, intermittent reinforcement, and increasing the difficulty level are some of the strategies you can use to fade the lure successfully. With these tips, you can transform your dog into an obedient and well-trained pet that can perform commands without expecting rewards. If you're looking to enroll your dog in dog training in Orlando, FL, contact Canine Linguistics today for more information on how to help your furry friend become well-trained and obedient.