Food-Reinforcement Alternatives on Off-Leash Hike (Patreon)

Today I went out on a hike without any food reinforcers. I typically carry some type of food reinforcers on all my hikes because I like to reward recalls and check-ins, as they are valuable behaviors to me. However, I accidentally didn't. Oops! 

But because I have other ways to reinforce my dog, this isn't a big deal, and I'm still perfectly comfortable having her off-leash (she is wearing a GPS collar - that's what the antenna is, and the receiver is around my neck as well). So in this video I outline how I use play (like throwing a stick) or running away to reinforce my dog for checking in with me. 

Checking in = dog stops forward motion and looks back at me 

When you reinforce check-ins on hikes you start building a radius around yourself that your dog will generally stay in because that is now a reinforcement zone. 

Disclaimer: Please note that if you are worried about using sticks, or throwing sticks as a reinforcer, don't do it. I know my throwing ability and my dog, but as in all things, there is inherent risk in using a stick for play. 

Practicing sessions at home where you use personal play (running around and getting excited with your dog) or toys as reinforcers can be helpful for having alternative reinforcement methods for known behaviors. 

Happy Training Ya'll!