Reply To: NW201: Sue and Blackie (All American, CA)

[Kimberly BuchananKeymaster]

Interesting! The long, drawn-out “yes” isn’t as bad as what one would do to actually “mark” behavior (like a clicker) so in this case it didn’t seem to have a negative effect. Also interesting to note that Blackie didn’t sit much except at the distractors! 😉

I think yesterday’s work will prove to be really helpful to solidify that indication behavior away from the sit. 🙂

And yes, I agree, it could have been a little bit of stress, too, that made her scratch and check out for a bit.

Good choice to end where you did! 🙂

p.s. YES, the “Alert” call can act as a marker! If the dog seems to be taking it as a cue, I usually have my students stop saying it or at least not consistently. But you’ve got to be careful not to forget saying it in trial. Been there! 😉

Kimberly Buchanan
Joyride K9 Dog Training