Episode 173: Target Training For Dogs: How, Why, And When To Fade Targets

We use targets in our dog training, which has prompted popular questions on the best way to fade a target and when to start fading. So that’s the topic of this episode, along with what targets are and why they work so well. Before you attempt to remove a target, there are three questions to ask and a clear process for fading so that your dog has a strong finished behavior.

In the episode you'll hear:

The difference between a food lure and a target.
Why targets work so well and how it starts with what your dog loves.
Why your dog's experience will influence when you can fade a target.
That the way you use a target will impact the fading of that target.
Why you want your dog to have DASH (Desire, Accuracy, Speed Habitat).
The reason to know what will replace the target, including verbal cues.
About having clarity for what you want your dog to do for the finished behavior.
Tips for when to add a cue if you are using a target.
All the steps to fading various targets, including changing the size and color.
Mistakes to avoid when you are removing a target.
Why to always believe your dog when you are training anything.