Positive Reinforcement Dog Training Methods

Although there are many methods of dog training, positive reinforcement stands alone as the system that works based on rewards rather than punishments. If you want to use positive reinforcement as your dog training method, you should be aware of the principle behind the method, and how to use positive reinforcement effectively.

As stated previously, positive reinforcement is based on a system of rewards for following commands, rather than punishment for not obeying. For example, each time you give your dog a command, you should give him a reward for obeying. Most dogs respond well to food rewards, but you may need to work with another reward, like attention. The trick is to find one thing that you can reserve for training and as a treat, and only give that particular thing to the dog when he obeys your commands.

It is easier to use food treats for positive reinforcement training than other rewards, since your dog can differentiate between food items more easily than he can if you use things like attention or toys. Attention may be especially confusing for a reward; most dog owners pet their dogs and give them attention whether they obey a particular command or not.

This system of rewarding your dog for obeying your command should go on until you are sure you dog knows what your commands mean, and can obey each time you give him a command. After that point, you can begin to wean your dog from the reward, eventually only giving the reward occasionally. You still want to give the dog a reward every once in a while for obeying to help him remember that the behavior is good.

The positive reinforcement method for training dogs is most effective if you use it on a regular, consistent basis. Older dogs may be slightly more difficult to train than puppies who are particularly motivated by the positive reinforcement method.

You also need to remember to begin weaning your dog from the reward as soon as he follows your commands consistently. This will help you avoid the problem of having your dog only obey your commands when the reward is present. You may still give your dog a reward for obeying occasionally, but make sure your dog doesn't know you have the treat until after he obeys your command. This will keep your dog from thinking that every time he obeys, he will get a treat as well as maintaining your authority even when you don't have a reward to give him.

The positive reinforcement method of training your dog with treats and praise is one of the most effective ways to teach your dog new commands. Since the method works on rewards, your dog will be happy to obey you.

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