Today I brought out the clicker and treats and decided to teach her how to square.
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Look at that square |
In the beginning it really was a complete fail. She would stop almost square, but then a struggle ensued as she alternated between taking a whole bunch of tiny steps slightly forward and slightly backward to square just right. It was just like someone who can't parallel park: backwards, forward, WAIT STOP, nope a little forward, STOP, backwards, no that is too far back, forward, NOT THAT FAR FORWARD. The problem with Ypke is that she has no concept of small. She thinks bigger is better, so it took me awhile to get her to take smaller steps. I think it is more of me getting the cue with the lead just right — it is a delicate balance between not using too much or too little pressure.
We are on our way and I am pleased with how the session went! :)
That's great!
ReplyDelete:)
DeleteThat's how Cole is--bigger the better. Since he is mostly Morgan, he decided that instead of standing square, he will park out. The time spent reinforcing it really payed off, because now it is his default. Anytime I am leading him and I stop, he automatically parks out and stays there until I tell him otherwise. I bet she will get just as good with standing square.
ReplyDeleteNice, that is my goal with Ypke- whenever we stop she automatically squares.
Deletei love your clicker session! it's awesome to see how well this is coming along :)
ReplyDeleteThanks! I'm glad you like them!
Deletei definitely want to follow your successes (or challenges) because i really find this sort of thing neat! my cat has responded well to the clicker training and he's been doing some fun tricks with the family now. so i would love to see what practical and novel tricks ypke will learn with you!
DeleteSMS is so fun to do :) I've practiced it loads with my mare.
ReplyDeleteVery cool. I have just purchased a clicker myself though I haven't figured out what I plan to teach B. with it yet. ;-)
ReplyDeletenot sure if she already does it but you could teach her to come over to you when called, if she's in the paddock and far far away... ;)
DeleteThe possibilities are endless, haha :)
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