One of the lovely things about shaping a dog through clicker training is how, once they learn the game, they offer behaviors of all sorts. This can be fun, especially when taking photographs.
I use lots of treats when I’m taking photos, and I take a lot of photos. Years ago, this was prohibited because every snap of the camera meant a fee for developing film.
Digital cameras, however, changed all that, so we can click away as long as the memory in the camera and the battery power holds up. Though the shot in most modestly priced digital cameras is not always instantaneous, and this is something I’ve had to get used to, as the shot I wanted isn’t always the shot I get.
That’s where the ability to take multiple shots pays off though. The more you click, the better chance you’ll have to get a photo that is really outstanding. One in twenty. One in fifty. One in a hundred. What does it matter? As long as it’s that one.
When taking photos, have fun. Let your dog get comfortable. Laugh, talk to him, pet him, enjoy the time. For some dogs, it may take a few minutes before they relax. Others, usually more seasoned dogs, or those who’ve been trained and socialized more, will be apt to enjoy the camera and the treats and get into the session.
Sometimes, people tell me about how fearful their dogs are of the camera pointing at them. One of the reasons a dog comes to fear a camera is the flash. You know the feeling when someone flashes a camera in your eyes, right? That flash of light can debilitate your eye sight for a while. Well, dogs are no different, and to many of them, that’s a frightening thing to happen. So try to avoid flashing a camera in their face. If at all possible, use outdoor light, and that will likely ensure repeat performances from your dog. And getting that one in a hundred picture can make it worth it.
By Helen Verte
Certified Pet Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed, Certified Trick Dog Instructor
Clicker Training Fort Lauderdale
