Be flexible with your motivators

I’ve previously posted about finding the right motivator. Remember that the dog or cat chooses what’s motivating (or reinforcing), and that that motivator a can change depending on the circumstances. What works in one context or setting may not work in another.

Understanding your pet’s motivators in different contexts is important, and allows you to stay flexible and still achieve your training goals.

For example, Ms Mummacat graced me with her presence last night.

As a suspected former street cat, we’re still working on our relationship and handling. This is hampered a little by the fact that the cats can’t be around when Roxy is, so we do what we can once Roxy is snuggled in her crate for the evening.

She’s only recently started sleeping on the bed, and only when it’s cold. Usually if I move or have to move her, she’s out. She loves nose pats, and last night these helped her settle, purr and she even dozed off for a little while!

While she is very food motivated (and I was able to teach her sit, circle & high five using food), it’s too much for handling work as she offers her trained behaviours and does not relax enough. So tonight, if I am graced again, I’ll try small movements and handling, and use nose pats to my advantage to keep her settled.

It’s still baby steps, but we will make more progress with handling in this context than we have been able to with food in the lounge room.

What motivates your pet?

Call me, I can help.