Essential Dog Training Basics for Beginners

1. The Feasibility and Operability of Target Behaviors

Behavioral shaping can help dogs develop new behaviors, but it's not a guarantee that any desired behavior can be successfully shaped. Instead, the ultimate target behavior should be determined based on the specific characteristics of the dog breed.

For instance, training a Chihuahua to bite is not feasible if the dog is meant to be a family pet, as these pets are primarily for companionship and do not require aggressive biting behaviors. However, if the dog is intended for hunting, the behavior becomes viable.

When training, using standard methods for training large dogs may not be operable with a small dog like a Chihuahua. The size of the handler and the target can be overwhelming for the dog, making it difficult to learn the biting behavior. This can lead to wasted time and even stress or fear in the dog, rendering the training inoperable.

In contrast, using conventional training methods for a German Shepherd would be operable, as these dogs are accustomed to larger handlers and targets.

2. The Diversity and Accuracy of Evaluation Standards

When training a more complex behavior, dogs will gradually approach the target behavior. The previous behavior must meet certain standards before moving on to the next step.

For example, when training a dog to bark, attention must be given to two distinct sounds: a "hum" and a "woof." Each sound should have its own evaluation standard, such as requiring the dog to "hum" 10 times before transitioning to the "woof" sound, or "hum" 6 times before moving on.

Once the dog can produce the "woof" sound, rewards should no longer be given during the "hum" phase. The evaluation standards should be chosen based on the dog's current state.

3. The Timeliness of Reinforcement

In the process of shaping training, reinforcement is essential at every step. Therefore, the timeliness and effectiveness of the reward are crucial. If the reward, such as food, is not sufficiently enticing to the dog, the dog may initially engage in training but may become distracted and lazy on subsequent attempts, diminishing the reward's effectiveness.

Timing is key; rewards should be given within 1.5 seconds of the desired behavior to ensure the reinforcement is effective. Missing the optimal reward time can negate the reinforcing effect.

4. The Rationality of Shaping Steps

When designing shaping steps, flexibility is key. Steps should be tailored to the dog's characteristics and the environment, which requires a thorough understanding of the dog before setting the steps.

Step sizes should not be too large, as this can overwhelm the dog and lead to a loss of confidence. Conversely, steps should not be too small, as this can slow down the shaping process and cause the dog to become fatigued.

The transition between steps should be appropriate for the dog, with no onesizefitsall approach. Trainers can observe the dog's behavior and its response to new stimuli to determine the appropriate steps and stages for shaping the target behavior.

5. The Adjustability of the Shaping Process

Training a new behavior is not always predictable, and unexpected situations may arise during the shaping process. This could include issues such as inappropriate step sizes, untimely reinforcement, or changes in the dog's health that affect the training plan.

Therefore, adjustments should be made based on the actual training situation. If a middle step does not stabilize despite repeated reinforcement, it may be necessary to modify or reduce the complexity of that step.

6. The Adaptability of the Shaped Results

Trainers use shaping principles with intention to establish desired behaviors, such as a dog that is not fearful of people. The shaped behavior should seamlessly integrate into the dog's life within human households.

Through shaping, a dog should not only be fearless in the presence of the owner or trainer but also in public spaces like parks and squares around strangers. Therefore, the adaptability of the shaped behavior to different environments should be considered.

During the shaping process, it's important to expose the dog to various environments to ensure it can exhibit consistent or similar behaviors across different settings.