Labradoodle & Goldendoodle Forum
What is Shaping?
I'm not a doggy psychologist but I do remember studying B. F. Skinner in my college psych class (a long long time ago). The whole "shaping" thing is based on his research. The dictionary says shaping as it relates to animal behavior is "to teach (a desired behavior) to a human or other animal by successively rewarding the actions that more and more closely approximate that behavior". Sounds like clicker training to me! Here's a link to a good website where the experts explain shaping much better than any feeble attempt on my part.
Why is it important? First, when we spend time with our doodles shaping behavior (teaching tricks) we solidify our relationship - way cool. Second, we get their little minds working which is a blast to watch. Lastly, for those of us who like to do dog sports (like agility), it is THE foundation to learning. I really like Susan Garrett who is a pro in agility. With her recent dogs, she has spent their puppyhood NOT learning agility but learning a variety of shaping behaviors. Then when the pup is old enough to do agility, it's a snap because their minds are ready. Here's a link to her blog and a list of "foundational" tricks.
Anyone else have any good websites or references for shaping?
Why is it important? First, when we spend time with our doodles shaping behavior (teaching tricks) we solidify our relationship - way cool. Second, we get their little minds working which is a blast to watch. Lastly, for those of us who like to do dog sports (like agility), it is THE foundation to learning. I really like Susan Garrett who is a pro in agility. With her recent dogs, she has spent their puppyhood NOT learning agility but learning a variety of shaping behaviors. Then when the pup is old enough to do agility, it's a snap because their minds are ready. Here's a link to her blog and a list of "foundational" tricks.
Anyone else have any good websites or references for shaping?
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