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[bat_shaped]

 Im looking for some advice. Basically, my dog doesnt like anything. Ive tried all kinds of treats, different meats, he doesnt even like peanut butter! Hes not motivated by toys either, and praise only works sometimes. Im at a loss as to what to use for positive reinforcement

Comments

[miss_teacher]

Is he free fed? How is his weight? Can you see an hourglass shape when you look down on him?

Where are you trying to train him with the meats you have used? Inside? Outside? Before meals, after?

[bat_shaped]

He's free fed but he usually eats his big meal in the evening. Hes a stocky guy but his waist is defined and the vet says hes not overweight. Ive been trying the training inside, in the late afternoon so it would be before he usually eats.
(Thanks for the response!)

[swallow_soma]

We found the culprit! Put the little guy on a meal schedule. Food works as positive reinforcement if he actually wants food, and he'll want food if he doesn't have access to it all the time, even when he doesn't want it.

[bat_shaped]

That makes a lot of sense! Im beginning to see how I let him get away with a lot, even though I thought I wasnt spoiling him.

[bat_shaped]

Thats a very good idea. He learned his one trick, giving kisses, that way, and he learned pottytraining very quickly too. Unfortunately I think Ive taught him that if he doesnt come to me I'll go pick him up, so I have to undo that. Since Ive started praising him just every time he comes up to me hes been doing it more, which is encouraging, hopefully he'll really get it eventually!