How to Tame Show Ducks

A show duck is any duck that conforms to the standards for its breed. If you plan to enroll your ducks in shows, it's vital that they have excellent temperaments, are friendly with people and can follow simple directions. Though most show ducks are bred to be accepting of people, they still require proper socialization to prevent aggression and fear.

Things You'll Need

  • Duck treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine how close you can get to your duck without frightening it. Approach your duck and wait for it to show signs of fear. When your duck becomes frightened, note the distance between you and the duck. This is your duck's current flight distance -- a measure of how close you can get to the duck without causing it stress. If your duck does not express fear when you approach it, proceed to Step 3.

    • 2

      Approach your duck so that you are 1 foot away from its flight distance. Sit down and toss treats to your duck, avoiding eye contact and sudden movements. Remain in place and don't react to your duck, even if it approaches you. Repeat this exercise several times a day. Every few days, get 1 foot closer to your duck until your duck will permit you to sit next to it without fleeing.

    • 3

      Sit down next to your duck and give it a treat. Do this several times each day for a week, avoiding sudden movements. If your duck behaves fearfully, slowly back up a few feet. This teaches your duck that you respect its boundaries.

    • 4

      Lay a trail of food leading from your duck to your lap; this encourages your duck to approach you. The first time your duck gets in your lap, stay still and give it a treat. Repeat this exercise every day for a week. After your duck reliably gets into your lap, you may begin petting it.

    • 5

      Reward your duck with treats periodically instead of during every interaction. Animals thrive on a schedule of intermittent reinforcement, during which they inconsistently are rewarded. Your duck is more likely to approach you if it thinks it might get a treat -- as opposed to knowing it will get one.