Positive reinforcement is a potent training technique for canines, yet it requires more than merely praising every action performed by your furry companion.
In order to achieve the most success in positive reinforcement training, it is important to follow a set of Do’s and Don’ts.
The Do’s And Don’ts Of Positive Reinforcement
Do…
Immediately Praise and Reward Desired Behavior
Your response to your dog’s actions should be immediate, as dogs live in the moment. This response can involve both treats and affection, and should be employed whenever your dog exhibits desired behavior.
When house training a dog, reward him with treats whenever he goes to the bathroom outside. If you are practicing commands, give him a pet each time he follows your instructions.
Keep it Short and Fun
In order to make your dog understand that she will be rewarded for obeying you, it is advisable to keep training sessions brief, enjoyable, and positive, ideally ending with a positive experience.
Wean From Treats
It is acceptable to use treats initially to achieve the desired behavior from your dog. However, gradually eliminate the use of treats while still providing praise and affection. Eventually, your dog will no longer rely on treats and will act in order to please you. Essentially, you become the reward.
By conditioning your dog, you can teach him to link a particular sound, such as “Tsch!” or a clicker, with receiving a treat. Even when you no longer provide the treat, your dog will still react to the sound.
Don’t…
Make Things Complicated
To ensure that your dog plays fetch, avoid saying “fetch the ball” and instead say “fetch” and promptly reward your dog when they do it. If you use complex commands or teaching methods, your dog will not be able to comprehend. It is crucial to be specific and keep things simple.
Show Inconsistency
If you reward your dog for staying off the couch but later allow her to come up and offer affection, it will confuse her about your expectations. It is essential for everyone in your household to follow the same rules, as inconsistent behavior will make it difficult for your dog to understand how to behave with each person and may cause her to become exhausted.
Stop Correcting Your Dog
One common error that often comes with positive reinforcement is the misconception among pet parents that they cannot refuse their dogs. This is completely false. Even if a dog is behaving improperly, it is still necessary and recommended to correct their behavior.
The key is to ensure that “correction time” and “positive reinforcement” time are kept separate. It is important to maintain a balance, similar to how you would raise a child.
6 Tips to Keep in Mind as You Get Started with Positive Reinforcement Dog Training
1. You and Your Dog Are Teammates
Instead of acting like a “pack leader” to earn your dog’s respect, you can choose a different approach. Micromanaging your dog’s every action can cause stress for both you and your dog. Instead, view yourselves as teammates working together to achieve a common goal.
2. Stock Up on Plenty of Treats
Using treats is an effective method to encourage most dogs. Opt for soft treats that can be effortlessly divided into small, pea-sized morsels. In addition to store-bought dog treats, chicken breast, hot dogs, and cheese are also suitable options.
3. Create Trust and Understanding With Your Dog
Training your dog to function in human society requires a similar approach to raising a child: patience is essential. According to Bergeland, it is common for people to label their dogs as mischievous, but such claims are unfounded. Instead, one should reflect on how they can assist their dog in comprehending the lessons being taught to them.
4. Always Give Your Dog Choice
It can be a fun experience for both you and your dog to engage in positive reinforcement training. However, if your dog is not inclined, it is important not to exert coercion. For instance, refrain from physically manipulating your dog into sitting or pulling them with a leash. If your pup is uncooperative, it indicates that it is not an appropriate time for training.
5. Make Sure Your Dog Is Enjoying Training
To determine if dogs are enjoying skill-building sessions, you can observe their cues. Is your furry friend focused on you? Does your canine eagerly anticipate receiving a treat? If so, continue teaching. However, if they appear uninterested or easily distracted, it may be more successful to try again at another time.
6. Create the Best Environment for Positive Reinforcement Training
To help your pup concentrate better, ensure there are no distractions such as children or other pets in the vicinity. Prioritize taking your pup to go to the bathroom before training and choose an appropriate time to engage in training sessions. Your furry friend will be more motivated to perform well for treats if they have not recently eaten a meal.
