Distance Handling 101 - Foundation Skills. Episode 2: Deep Dive into Shaping

One of the key training concepts for training agility that all handlers need to know is the technique of shaping. This method of training encourages the dog to think independently, to problem solve and to be resilient to failure.
Shaping is one of the most natural learning methods as it involves trial and error on the part of the learner. Dogs are learning behaviours by trial and error all the time, such as discovering if they sit for a person they get fussed., or discovering they can open the kitchen bin!
With shaping, we 'shape' this form of learning to achieve a certain outcome. To do so we use marker cues, such as a clicker or a specific word.
Shaping, however, is often misunderstood or poorly implemented resulting in incomplete learning and handler's presuming the technique does not really work. In fact shaping can be used for any behaviour we want to teach and has one of the strongest retention rates in terms of learned behaviour. Basically, the dog that learns to do something through shaping is more likely to retain that behaviour than a dog that was shown through luring.
In this video I outline how I use shaping to achieve results in distance handling, why it is so important, how it can go wrong and troubleshooting common training mistakes. This is an important part of this course, so if you are new to this method I recommend you watch this video before progressing to the training exercises.
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sophiejackson2021
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Dog agility is a fast growing sport involving the dog negotiating a series of obstacles. Traditionally, handlers have endeavoured to run with their dogs around a course. However, with courses becoming bigger, it is increasingly vital to teach distance handling for dog agility. While some handlers may have physical limitations that mean they cannot run with their dogs, even handlers that are fit and able will need distance handling skills. These skills include - obstacle independence - ability to respond to verbal as well as physical cues - great drive and focus forward However, distance handling can often seem daunting to those who have never tried it. In this new series, I am going to explore the foundations for great distance handling. You will learn the key training techniques, exercises to build drive and independence and develop your skills as a distance handler.
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About me! I am a force free dog trainer living in the United Kingdom. I have trained with a variety of dogs and currently own Shelties and working cockers or cocker crosses. I have competed in agility since 2013 and have qualified for various regional and national finals. Due to ill health, I had to transition from being a running agility handler to a distance handler in 2021. Since then I have become passionate about encouraging handlers of all abilities to enjoy this sport with their dogs. My channel is dedicated to sharing my love of dogs and dog training. I believe dog training should be taught in a fun, cooperative manner. Welcome and I hope you enjoy my videos!