Positive Reinforcement Training and its Benefits

Sylvia Koczerzuk Koczerzuk Author

Mar 23, 2023 |

What is positive reinforcement training for dogs and or animal?

Dog Training, What methods should You Use.

Training a dog can seem to be difficult, and I see this more so with new or inexperienced dog owners.

Finding the right training method is critical in creating that incredible relationship you want to build with your dog. Living with an animal and/or dog is about communication and we want our dogs to be able to understand us. This is where positive reinforcement training will help you. Having a well-trained dog will also allow you to have those incredible outings with your pup, as you will have the confidence that they will understand what you want from them. Positive reinforcement is usually the method of choice when training a dog, but what is this method all about?

What exactly is Positive Reinforcement Dog Training

Positive reinforcement is a type of dog training that involves rewarding a dog for performing a desired behaviour. This method is considered to be the most humane and effective way to train a dog, as it encourages the dog to repeat the desired behaviours in the hopes of receiving a reward better known as reinforcement. Reinforcements do build behaviour.

The basic principle of positive reinforcement is that when a dog performs a desired behaviour, they will be rewarded with something they find desirable, such as their food, a treat, praise, a toy, foraging or playtime. Positive reinforcement helps to build a positive association in the dog's mind between the behaviour and the reward, making it more likely that the dog will repeat the behaviour in the future. What is really incredible is the underlying learning that happens is a trusting, and predictable relationship is being built. No pressure, nothing harsh but just having fun and enjoying your time together.

Why Type of training can Positive Reinforcement be used for?

Positive reinforcement can be used to teach a wide variety of behaviours, basic cues (such as "sit," "stay," and "come"), we can build many life skills using reinforcers and if you would like to learn how we can build calmness and more please reach out to me. As well more complex behaviours like agility training, gun dog training, scent work and more, or service dog training can be done with positive reinforcement training. What is incredible is that it can be started and used for both puppies and adult dogs, and it can be used to teach new behaviours or modify unwanted behaviours.

Is there an Advantage to Positive Reinforcement Training?

One of the key advantages of positive reinforcement is that it is a non-aversive and non-confrontational method of training. It does not involve any physical punishment or negative consequences, which can cause fear or aggression in a dog. No harsh tools are used or. necessary when using positive reinforcement to teach your dog or any animal really.   Instead, it promotes a positive and happy relationship between the dog and the owner, where we create harmony and a peaceful life with our dog.

What do you need for Positive Reinforcement Training?

It's essential to use the correct type of reward when training a dog using positive reinforcement. Treats are a standard reward, but they can be replaced with verbal praise, toys, petting (this can be contextual), or playtime. The reward should be something that the dog finds desirable and motivating. If we cannot motivate our dogs there will be no learning.

It's also important to be consistent and patient when using positive reinforcement. Training should be done in small steps, gradually increasing the difficulty of the behaviour as the dog becomes more comfortable with the command. Your dog should be praised and rewarded immediately (within 2- 3 seconds) after performing the desired behaviour, and the owner should be prepared to repeat the command multiple times in multiple environments with many different distractions before the dog understands it completely.

Overall, positive reinforcement is an effective and humane method of dog training that promotes a positive and happy relationship between the dog and the owner. By understanding the principles of positive reinforcement and using the right type of reward, owners can help their dogs to learn new behaviours and to become well-behaved and happy companions.

Happy Training,

Please reach out to me if you want to learn more about how I can help you.

Sylvia Koczerzuk, http://www.walkaboutcaninecons...