Now, we train dogs to have stronger visual analysis abilities, which is to let dogs distinguish shapes. This training is similar to the previous "naming toys" and "distinguishing colors."

　　Prepare flat boards of different shapes or foam rubber cut into different shapes. The important thing is that the only difference in the flat boards should be the shapes engraved on them, and their smell should be the same (that is, they should be made of the same material).

　　1. Let the dog touch a certain shaped board (for example, a star shape) several times and set this as the target object (call this shape the "target shape").

　　2. Now place the target shape board on the ground at a certain distance from the dog. If you are confident that the dog will go there, give it the corresponding command, in this example: "Tell me which is the star."

　　3. Now place another shaped board on the ground at a certain distance from the first board. You should design this exercise very simply so that the dog is likely to go to the target board. Repeat the exercise with some variations, but the target shape board should always be easier to recognize than the other one.

　　4.. Now gradually bring the two shaped boards closer so the dog needs to consciously distinguish them.

　　5. When the dog can correctly select the right shape in 80% of the exercises, you can add a third shape and continuously vary the placement of the different shaped boards.

　　6. Stop all assistance to the dog. You can have others check your training process or record it to see if there is any hidden help. For example, you might be turning your body toward the target shape board, etc.

　　7. Now add a fourth shape so the dog needs to distinguish four different shapes.

　　Tips for Distinguishing Shapes

　　If you don't want to spend so much time teaching your dog to distinguish object shapes (this is a very difficult training), there is a trick that can help your dog quickly achieve the same effect. Spray some scent on the target shape board, then let the dog find that scent. Then you can show your friends and family how smart your dog is, and no one will know the difference!