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So, hopefully I’m replying in the correct place/manner, pretty sure that I am! 🙂 This was a really fascinating video and super interesting question that got me thinking. With a dog like mine (lab), I think it’s really easy to get stuck on using only food because they love it SO MUCH. However, my dog does like toys and games too. Although, it’s only fair to say that I’ve had to instill this desire/motivation for toys and games in him. He didn’t come pre-programmed to like them. 🙂
Recently, here’s some non-food motivators I’ve come up with:
#1 A few weeks ago, I was outside using the hose and Tuff came running over to me and started to jump and bite at the water stream. I took a break from using the hose and asked him to sit. He sat still for a few seconds, then I said “yes!” and let him bite the stream/chase after it. I thought it was a long shot but it worked! After a few times of this, he know runs over and sits (or stands there and calmly waits) to get sprayed with the hose. LOL.
Thats my most creative use of intrinsic motivation for a reward and I have to say I’m pretty proud of myself. Other than that, I use the game of tug and the act of fetch/chase as a reward for sitting still. Flirt poles are also fun to use! Sorry for the long response! I get a “little into it!”
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