Types of Shaping in Clicker Training

Clicker training is a technique used to train and reward animals for performing desirable actions. The trainer reinforces positive behavior by pressing the clicker, a tiny handheld device that produces a sharp "clicking" sound when pushed and released. The clicker can be effectively used to train animals for a wide range of activities, such as obedience, freestyle, agility and performance sports.

  1. Shaping

    • Shaping is an ideal method of clicker-training animals to become problem-solvers and quickly learn new skills. Shaping techniques are used to gradually introduce and build a new behavior by clicking and rewarding several small steps or series of behaviors. It is a creative process for both the trainer and the animal -- allowing you to choose the type of behavior that you want to reinforce; and enabling the animal to figure out which particular behavior is clicked and rewarded.

    Luring

    • Luring, also known as prompted shaping, is a clicker-training method by which you lure the animal, or use bait such as food, to induce it perform an action. Once the animal performs the action, the clicker is clicked, and the action rewarded. Luring can be used to fast-track the animal to perform the behavior. For instance, to shape a dog to perform the "down position," hold a treat in front of his face and gently lower it down toward his chest and slowly on to the floor. The treat will guide the dog to focus on the lure and unconsciously perform the "down position" action. Reinforce this action through repeated practice, and gradually replace the treat with a hand motion that instructs your dog to remain in the "down position."

    Free Shaping

    • Free shaping places the onus of performing a desired action on the animal. The trainer plays the role of a passive observer who notes and reinforces the desired behavior, but does not actively participate with the animal during the shaping process. For instance, to make a dog raise his paw, you should closely observe the dog when he shifts his weight slightly off one paw, and immediately click and reward him. When the dog gradually shifts his weigh after repetitive training, postpone the click and reward until the dog raises his front paw, an inch away from the ground. Free shaping may initially seem overwhelming for both for the trainer and the animal. Additionally, this form of clicker training can take a long time for the animal to learn, and trainers must exercise patience during training.

    Considerations

    • Decide on the type of shaping that is best suited to clicker-train your pet, based on its temperament and learning capabilities. Make the shaping session short, around 10 minutes, to ensure that the animal remains engaged and interested in the activity. Avoid training if the animal is distracted, or if you are unable to fully concentrate on the training, as this could hamper learning process. Keep a written record of each training session, to track progress and possible areas that need improvement.