What is positive reinforcement training?
- Dogs are taught using humane, force free techniques that encourage dogs to learn, problem solve, and think.
- There are no fear, intimidation, bullying, or domination techniques used.
- Based on a reward structure that encourages the dog to want to work more with you.
- Rewards such as food, praise, toys, etc. are used to encourage and mark good/desired behavior.
- Verbal cues are used to interrupt and redirect negative behavior to an alternative positive behavior.
- Withholding a reward from the dog will help create boundaries for the dog when needed.
Good Training Tools
- Small bite-sized treats and treat bag
- Leashes (4 of 6 foot)
- Flat buckle or martingale collars
- Harnesses
- Praise
- Toys
Why do we not use punishment?
- Increases anxiety and fear
- Ruins relationships
- Inhibits desired learning
- Does not tell the pet what to do
- Makes animals more reactive
- Increases the risk of physical and psychological injury
- May only work in your presence
Training tools to avoid
- Shock collars/electric collars/e-collars/static collards
- Prong collars
- Choke collards, choke chains
Resource: Do No Harm by Linda Michaels, M.A. Psychology
