Meal Time = Training Time! Part - 1

This image created by 4paws University applies to every dog!

 

 

 

Seven and I are following this advice and not wasting training opportunities to create and reinforce positive behaviors.

 

We start with the reward/reinforcer which is food - Seven is fed twice a day and I always measure out his food. 

 

Seven is a long back dog and he should never be overweight.  In fact he could lose a pound which we are working on while he's in foster care.

 

Seven eats 1/4 cup of food twice a day



And a 1/4 cup means a level 1/4 cup




There are 53 pieces of kibble in this 1/4 cup. 

53 pieces of kibble equals 53 times we work a behavior.  That's a lot of learning, a lot of reinforcing and of course a lot of fun! 

 

When we are not using his mealtime kibble for training, I use all protein treats that are broken down into small pieces  Seven doesn't know that he's getting a small piece or a large piece - he just knows he's getting a very tasty reinforcer.

 

Here's  Boulder dog food company turkey bits and Seven loves them!
I can break once piece into 4 to 5 small pieces

 

Stay tuned for Part 2 where you will get to watch the two of us in action!