Mimic Me

6 one-hour class sessions PREREQUISITE: Family Dog Manners 1 Class Go to list of all courses to learn more about prerequisite class(es)

This is a class for those who really enjoy a fun challenge and learning to train!  Mimic Me teaches your dog the concept of mimicking the last behavior you demonstrate.  The actual training process isn’t quite as difficult as it sounds but concepts are a decent challenge for doggy brains and trainers alike!  In 6 weeks we will be able to teach our dogs the concept of mimicking.  When they “get it” it is SO amazing!!!  You can show them behaviors they haven’t seen before and they will repeat them!  Dogs are natural social learners – in this class we are starting to work with them deliberately to enhance those skills.

Special Notes:  It helps speed up the mimicking process a great deal if you enter this class with 3-6 behaviors your dog already knows.  They don’t have to be perfect, but they do need to be behaviors YOU can demonstrate to the dog.  So “Sit” works, but “down” doesn’t for most people (and does for others).  Work on things you can demonstrate to the dog like spin, paw touch, “bottom” (standing with your ‘back feet’ on an agility obstacle), paws up (both paws touching the seat of a chair or stool), backup, bark, get on a table (ok, not for all), bring it, jump up, jump over, get in a box, ring a bell, etc. You get the idea.  At least pick 3 behaviors you know you can easily demonstrate TO your dog, and practice those with your pup so they know them (6 behaviors will put you at the head of the class!) 

This class is best suited for:  those who have time to practice and who look on training as a fascinating hobby. Conceptual learning takes practice, which takes time – but it is well worth the effort for training junkies and the continually curious.

Min/Max Enrollment:  4/8

Bring the Following to Class

- Water and water dish
- Extra special treats….like MEAT
- “Regular” treats
- Flat buckle collar or harness (head halters not appropriate for this class)
- 6 foot leash
- Easy access treat bag
- Clicker
- PROPS will be necessary as you progress, but they will be your own

You will learn:
- How to set your dog up for success
- How to be absolutely clear with your cues
- To use rapid reinforcement/clicks
- The method for teaching your dog to imitate you

Your Dog will learn:
-Six behaviors on cue (will vary by team)
- To watch you carefully for information
- To mimic you for specific behaviors, on cue