Positive Reinforcement Dog Training

Dog training methodologies have evolved over the years, as research into animal minds has revealed more efficient ways of getting them to respond. Training techniques have moved from a punishment centered approach to one that revolves around rewards and positive reinforcement. Indeed, positive reinforcement dog training is proving to be far more effective in creating happy obedient dogs.

Traditional methods of dog training utilized punishments as a means for correcting bad behavior. Rather than focusing on what a dog has done well, they attempt to teach the dog a lesson for breaking a rule. Common techniques involved jerking on a leash or collar, the use of shock collars, or the famous swat with a rolled up newspaper.

Punishment based training is no fun for a dog

What most owners do not realize about these methods is that they have more adverse consequences than positive ones. Dogs trained with these techniques feel like they are unable to please their owners, and are not as enthusiastic to learn. Instead, they are simply trying to avoid the pain of punishment.

Dogs can become fearful of the activity itself, rather than just the punishment. A dog who gets whacked for eliminating in the house (fancy training word for you know what) will become afraid of doing the same thing outside. He will not learn that there is an appropriate place for this activity. He will only learn that it gets him in trouble.

In addition, dogs trained with these methods can become aggressive. They are learning from their owners that aggression is okay, and they will become more likely to respond to perceived threats in the same way.

Positive Reinforcement Dog Training rewards good behavior

Unlike traditional methods, positive reinforcement training does not focus on what a dog has done wrong. Instead, it rewards the dog for good behavior.

If you plan to use positive reinforcement with your dog, be sure you have plenty of treats handy. Your goal should be to reward your dog every time he responds to your commands in the way you want. Begin from the very first day you bring him home, whether he is a small puppy or a full adult dog. Give him a treat for being a “good dog.” Be sure and give vocal praise as you give the treat. Say “good heel,” or “good sit,” so that he knows what he is being rewarded for. This will reinforce the command in his mind.

Don’t highlight mistakes by yelling or punishing. Be patient, and simply reward him for doing what he is supposed to do. You will be able to gradually do away with the treats until he can obey and perform without them. An excellent resource that teaches a full program based on positive reinforcement is Daniel Steven's Secrets To Dog Training

Advantages of Positive Reinforcement Training

This type of training has many advantages. First and most obvious, you’re dog won’t be nervous or afraid. A positive method of dog training encourages trust and friendship between dog and owner, rather than fear and aggression. The use of treats will help the dog keep his focus on you, and will increase the effectiveness and speed of training.

In addition, positive reinforcement is fun for your dog. He wants to please you, and will be happy to keep trying if it means he will be rewarded for doing so. Even after you no longer need the treats, he will still obey your commands because he knows that you will be happy with him and he will continue to associate the actions with fun and reward.

Positive reinforcement dog training helps you establish a happy relationship with your dog. It makes dog training fun and helps him to learn more quickly and to enjoy training periods. It will also be less frustrating and more enjoyable for you. With positive reinforcement you can avoid the negative risks of older punishment based training methods and make life long training part of play and a cornerstone in ensuring a happy, secure and well behaved dog.

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