Target Training Beardies

[Smalltowngal]

Hi there,

I'd like to get Norman target trained for the summer, but I'm not so sure on how to get started. I know the main idea is positive reinforcement, mainly through food, and that's where my trouble begins. Norman isn't very food motivated and isn't a very enthusiastic eater. He will only eat like ever other or third day and nothing inbetween. How can I encourage him when he won't take treats?
(for those of you not sure what target, or mark, training is it's when you have a marker, say a piece of black tape on the end of the stick, and when you put the mark on the ground and say mark they will go and touch their nose to the mark.)

Another thing I'd like to do, but I'm not sure if it's possibe, is to train him to give into pressure on the leash. Bsically, when I pull he'll walk toward me.

Thanks for you're help!

 

[RandyMarsh]

im interested in these questions as well! Be keeping an eye on things

 

[Repkyle]

Me to, had no idea they are capable of "mark" training. Sounds cool if its possible, I'm in for the answers

 

[AtlasStrike]

How does your beardie respond to sound? You could try a clicker or chime or something like that. You could also try a larger variety of foods, wax worms, strawberries. Anything and everything. I had a dog who wasn't food motivated. He didn't have that desire to please in him at all really. Never did teach him to do much. He knew things, just didn't care much.