Excerpts from "Positively Fetching"

Teaching Methods:

" Many obedience people feel the only way to have a reliable retrieve is by using a force retrieve, most commonly the ear pinch. The theory behind a force retrieve is that of negative reinforcement. . . . While this has proven successful for many dogs, some have been ruined due to the handler's poor timing in stopping the pain. . . . Soon both dog and handler develop terrible attitudes about retrieving. Rather than putting their dogs through this, many people simply give up.

"We believe retrieving should be introduced and taught in a positive manner using food as reinforcement, so the dog is an eager partner. This booklet and video present a program that relies on the theory of shaping. The handler positively reinforces the dog using food along with praise for efforts that gradually meet the goal of a quick retrieve. This method teaches all the elements that make up the formal obedience retrieve.

"The teaching of the conditioned reinforcer is the key to the program. Make a sound and give a treat. You can make this sound using a clicker or your mouth. Most dogs catch on very quickly. Initially, the dog understands the sound means the food is coming immediately. Eventually, the sound becomes a promise that food is coming eventually. The use of the conditioned reinforcer helps to pinpoint the exact moment the dog is right. It also helps when the time comes to wean the dog off the food."

Closing:

" The retrieve is a necessary part of advanced obedience. Some dogs will require patient teaching of each physical skill that makes up the formal retrieve exercise. It is our sincere hope that our method will enable you to earn advanced titles with your dog, whatever the breed. Good luck, and above all else, have fun with your dog!"