Ray – Say hello!

We have been working on Ray’s interactions with people and dogs for a long time now and, as a result of a Behavior Adjustment Training program*, have been using a standard positive reinforcement philosophy.

In simple terms, Ray was persuaded to accept that people and dogs probably meant treats for him. Once he seemed to have accepted the idea that when approached by people or dogs, treats were likely imminent, we progressed to coaxing him to initiate any greeting. We use “Ray – Say hello” with a hand pointing to the “target”. He soon caught on to the idea and would “nose touch” as necessary.

When I recently came back home after a brief time away, Carol told me about an incident in a downtown park. The park has a group of sculptures consisting of a moose and three wolves**, and it has been quite some time since Ray was their last. In fact the last time was when he was rather apprehensive about approaching the sculptures.

This time, apparently, Carol took him close to the moose and said “Ray – Say hello!” and to her surprise, he went over to just beneath the moose’s head and lifted himself up in order to touch it with his nose! There was no hesitation, and he was so controlled as he stood on his two back legs that not only was she surprised by his immediate response, but was really impressed with his physical ability (his strength and balance).

Much as I would have loved to have witnessed that event, I had to settle for an alternative. I suggested that we take him back there to see if he would repeat his performance, and this time in front of a camera!

P1070936CRAt the time of writing this Post, Ray has progressed from touching upon request, to now trying to touch anybody who comes within range! The ones who have treats in their pockets certainly get a warmer reception but, in general, he is now a rather outgoing guy. Such a change from two years ago when he barked and lunged at almost everybody!

*See “Dingo Lingo” – August 8, 2015

**See “Beware – Sculptures” January 5, 2015

21 thoughts on “Ray – Say hello!”

  2. Sarah Ferguson and Choppy's avatar

    Oh, this is too cute! I love it!

    And if Ray has any pointers for Choppy about statues, we could use them. She seems to think they are alive. She has gotten better over the years, but I’ve had more than one run-in with a mad dog and a very calm (fake) person.

    Liked by 1 person

    • colinandray's avatar

      Sadly Kate, we live in an “instant” society where all too often the “new pet” is expected to come fully trained. In the case of cute puppies (and cute kittens), new owners often seem to have difficulty acknowledging that growth into an adult is normal! Sadly we also live in a “disposable” society so if a “maturing” dog or cat no longer suits the owners taste, then it is simply abandoned or turned in to a rescue shelter. We, as a species, have much to answer for, and we should be ashamed of our track record to date.

      Liked by 1 person

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