See. Mark. Reward.

It's been almost three weeks since MJ arrived at Morris Animal Inn from FOWA Rescue. One of her biggest achievements so far has been her attention span and her willingness to listen to commands. Last week we discussed working with MJ on replacement behaviors and she has also made great strides in understanding that she must behave appropriately to get what she wants!

Adorable MJ is politely offering a
sit for a treat!

Our Trainers have been implementing "See, Mark and Reward Training" with MJ which will greatly help her understand what is expected of her in her forever home. When the Trainers see a good behavior they like from MJ (sitting nicely, walking politely on the leash, etc.), they mark it with a "yes!" or a clicker. They then reward MJ with her favorite treats. As we mentioned in our Training Tip on Tuesday, every interaction you have with your dog is a training session, whether it's planned or not! Our Training Staff spends a lot of time with MJ, so her new family or foster must be willing to stay persistent in order to help her transition and know what's expected of her in her new home.

Three weeks into working with MJ, we understand how important it is to stay consistent in order to help her improve! MJ has started to recognize that she must offer a behavior such as sitting, lying down, giving eye contact, etc., in order to get what she wants.

Sometimes she still just wants to do whatever she wants. So what happens then? Our trainers implement two options: They ignore the behavior or they redirect it.

MJ pulls on the leash.  To change this
behavior, Allie ignores until MJ offers
something different. 

For instance, if MJ plays "tug of war" with her leash (as pictured), Allie will let go and ignore the behavior. It takes two to tug! Paying any attention to the behavior is a rewarding experience for MJ. Play is fun! Allie may even walk away until MJ stops and becomes interested in something else. If ignoring the behavior doesn't work or if Allie can't let go of the leash because they are going for a walk, MJ's attention may be redirected to a treat! If MJ takes the treat and drops the leash, Allie marks and rewards her actions.

MJ has been responding very well to this method of training! Her willingness to learn and pay attention will continue to help her make more strides. We are so honored to have the opportunity to make a difference in this sweet girl's life. She is so loving and will be a great companion. If you are interested in adopting MJ, please contact FOWA. We are looking forward to the next chapter in MJ's life: a place to call home!