Shape Complex Behaviors Step by Step

Use this when a behavior is too complex to capture or lure all at once.

  1. 1Break the target behavior into small, achievable steps.
  2. 2Mark and reward the first tiny approximation, such as looking at the target.
  3. 3Once that's reliable, wait for and reward the next small step closer to the goal.
  4. 4Continue raising the criteria one small step at a time.
  5. 5Reinforce only the current closest approximation, not earlier ones.
  6. 6Keep sessions short since shaping asks a lot of thinking from your dog.

Small, successful steps keep your dog thinking and moving forward.

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