Getting help for Austin on command is one of tasks Bo is being trained to do. We practice this command daily. It involves Austin sending Bo to find me in the house and then returning to Austin with me. If Bo returns without me, Austin gives him the command again. If Bo returns with a me, Austin gives Bo treats using what's called rapid reinforcement where Bo gets treats in rapid succession.
We started this training with 5 feet between Austin and me. Austin would give the 'Get Help' command and I would call Bo to me. When Bo got to me, I would walk to Austin and Austin would treat Bo. We have since added distance and duration. Now when we practice I am in another room from Austin and Bo. Sometimes when Bo comes to me, I start following him and then stop before I reach Austin, so he has to circle back to get me. I video taped our training tonight and the video here shows what it looks like. It's not perfect but with practice I'm optimistic that Bo will perform this very important job.
We started this training with 5 feet between Austin and me. Austin would give the 'Get Help' command and I would call Bo to me. When Bo got to me, I would walk to Austin and Austin would treat Bo. We have since added distance and duration. Now when we practice I am in another room from Austin and Bo. Sometimes when Bo comes to me, I start following him and then stop before I reach Austin, so he has to circle back to get me. I video taped our training tonight and the video here shows what it looks like. It's not perfect but with practice I'm optimistic that Bo will perform this very important job.
I am amazed each time I see Bo work for Austin! Truly heart warming.
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