Our Discovery game is a valuable tool for service dogs as it nurtures independent thinking and problem-solving skills. By encouraging exploration and creativity, the game enhances service dogs’ adaptability and ability to collaborate with their handlers, ultimately contributing to the safety and well-being of those they serve.
Discovery: A Training Game by Doggedly
The Discovery game is a daily dog training approach that’s entirely directed by the dog.
It’s playful and fun for both the dog and the trainer.
Unlike capturing, where the trainer waits for a specific behavior to occur before marking and rewarding, Discovery encourages the dog’s natural curiosity and creativity. In this method, the trainer waits for the dog to try something different. The dog may sit, lie down, or perform its usual tricks in an attempt to earn a mark and reward. However, when these familiar behaviors don’t work, the dog begins to experiment with new actions.
Initially, the trainer should mark and reward any different behavior. Once the dog consistently offers new behaviors each time the trainer waits, the trainer can introduce the word “discover.” Saying “discover” essentially means “show me something new,” inviting the dog to explore, experiment, and offer various behaviors.
When the dog displays an interesting, enjoyable, or unexpected behavior, the trainer immediately marks it and rewards the dog. At this point, the trainer can take over and wait for the dog to repeat the newly discovered behavior. As the dog repeats the behavior, the trainer continues to mark and reward it, reinforcing the action until it becomes consistent enough to assign a cue.
The Discovery game not only fosters problem-solving skills and independence in the dog but also strengthens the bond between the trainer and the dog as they collaborate to develop unique and entertaining tricks.
The Value of Independent Thinking and Problem-Solving in Service Dogs
Service dogs play a vital role in assisting individuals with various tasks and providing support in different environments. To excel in their roles, service dogs must possess not only obedience and specific task-related skills but also the ability to think independently and solve problems.
Independent thinking and problem-solving skills enable service dogs to adapt to unexpected situations, work collaboratively with their handlers, and make decisions that contribute to their handler’s safety and well-being.
These abilities help to develop resilience and resourcefulness in the dogs, making them more effective and reliable partners. The Discovery game serves as an excellent tool for nurturing independent thinking and problem-solving skills in service dogs.
By encouraging the dog to explore and experiment with new behaviors, the game promotes creativity and adaptability. As the dog takes the lead in creating and learning new behaviors, the trainer or handler can guide and refine these skills to meet specific needs and tasks emphasizing the importance of working together as a team.
Empowering Older Dogs and Rescue Dogs in Transition
The Discovery game holds particular value for older pet dogs and rescue dogs transitioning into service dog roles. This engaging and adaptable training method assists these dogs in developing essential critical thinking and problem-solving skills required for their new responsibilities.
By promoting learning through exploration and experimentation, the Discovery game helps build the dogs’ confidence and independence. Older pet dogs (over the age of 1) or rescue dogs may have limited experience with training, but the Discovery game offers a supportive, low-pressure environment for them to discover their potential and contribute to the development of new skills.
This approach not only enhances their effectiveness as service dogs but also eases their transition into new roles, instilling a sense of achievement and purpose in their lives.
naming this training method – discovery game
On Naming the Discovery Method “The Discovery Game” While the concept behind the Discovery game isn’t new, we at Doggedly have termed it “Discovery” since we couldn’t find a specific universal name for it.
In our game, saying the word “Discover” to a dog means “Show me something new!” The Discovery “game” is intentionally coined “game” to emphasize its interactive, playful and enjoyable nature for both the trainer and the dog. Rather than referring to it as a “method,” which may imply a more rigid or formal approach.
It encourages trainers and dogs to have fun while working together, fostering a more relaxed and positive training environment. Calling it the “Discovery Game” also makes it easier for dog owners and trainers to understand that this method is just one aspect of a well-rounded training regimen, rather than a comprehensive training system in and of itself.