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We use targets in our dog training, which has prompted popular questions on the best way to fade a target and when to start fading. So that’s the topic of this episode, along with what targets are and why they work so well. Before you attempt to remove a target, there are three questions to ask and a clear process for fading so that your dog has a strong finished behavior.

In the episode you'll hear:

• The difference between a food lure and a target. • Why targets work so well and how it starts with what your dog loves. • Why your dog's experience will influence when you can fade a target. • That the way you use a target will impact the fading of that target. • Why you want your dog to have DASH (Desire, Accuracy, Speed Habitat). • The reason to know what will replace the target, including verbal cues. • About having clarity for what you want your dog to do for the finished behavior. • Tips for when to add a cue if you are using a target. • All the steps to fading various targets, including changing the size and color. • Mistakes to avoid when you are removing a target. • Why to always believe your dog when you are training anything.

Resources:

1. Podcast Episode 171: Dog Training With Layered Shaping: Why Classical Conditioning Must Come First - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/171/ 2. YouTube Video: Target Stick Training for Dogs Part 1 - https://youtu.be/MzePo7RSQu4 3. YouTube Video: Target Stick Training for Dogs Part 2 - https://youtu.be/TqsEEWCXze0 4. Podcast Episode 12: When Helping Your Dog is an Illusion - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/12/ 5. Podcast Episode 144: Teach Your Dog To Listen No Matter What… Even If You Think They Are Stubborn - https://dogsthat.com/podcast/144/ 6. YouTube Video: Help for Loose Leash Walking: Create Value for Your Dog Walking with You Using a Target Stick - https://youtu.be/umNJrdxTqkM 7. Apple iOS App "Dog Vision HD " by Laan labs - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dog-vision-hd/id812260666 8. Android App Dog vision - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=fr.nghs.android.cbs.dogvision&hl=en 9. Watch this Episode of Shaped by Dog on YouTube - https://youtu.be/bN-wrAMn4Bk