Five benefits of positive reinforcement based dog training.
Let's start with the basics of positive reinforcement. From a technical point of view, positive reinforcement (R+) is adding a desired stimulus (such as food) to increase the frequency of behavior. (1) In general, a positive reinforcement approach to training is about understanding the motivators that drive behavior, removing the payoff for unwanted behaviors, teaching alternative behaviors that are highly rewarding, and setting the stage for success. Here are five benefits of using positive reinforcement based dog training:
1. Strengthens human/dog bond - Working with your dog in a fun and humane way builds trust which strengthens the relationship. Trust is an essential element to any healthy relationship. It's like putting deposits into your trust account. It's a reciprocal relationship, both human and dog are learning from each other. Learning also enriches the dogs life and can be fun for you too!
2. Teaches dog desired behavior - One of the limitations of using a "traditional" or punishment based behavior change approach is that alternative behaviors are not taught - this can make learning slow and frustrating for both the teacher and learner. A positive approach teaches the dog appropriate behaviors that can then be reinforced.
3. Change emotional state driving behavior - If your dog barks at skateboard riders, other dogs, or the mailman, there is often an underlying emotional state that is driving that behavior. Using positive reinforcement based behavior modification can get to the root of that issue and work on the fear that is often expressed in unwanted barking, growling, lunging, etc., to make for a more relaxed and happy pup.
4. Builds confidence - Fun and enriching experiences help to build your dog's confidence which can help to minimize or eliminate many problematic behaviors that are driven by fear and anxiety. As the animal learns that it has some control over it's environment by performing specific behaviors to produce desired outcomes, it gains confidence.
5. Supported by research and recommended by top behaviorists - According to the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), positive reinforcement is the least intrusive teaching/training method, and: "Positive reinforcement should be the first line of teaching, training and behavior change program considered, and should be applied consistently. Positive reinforcement is associated with the lowest incidence of aggression, attention-seeking, and avoidance/fear in learners." (2)
1. Strengthens human/dog bond - Working with your dog in a fun and humane way builds trust which strengthens the relationship. Trust is an essential element to any healthy relationship. It's like putting deposits into your trust account. It's a reciprocal relationship, both human and dog are learning from each other. Learning also enriches the dogs life and can be fun for you too!
2. Teaches dog desired behavior - One of the limitations of using a "traditional" or punishment based behavior change approach is that alternative behaviors are not taught - this can make learning slow and frustrating for both the teacher and learner. A positive approach teaches the dog appropriate behaviors that can then be reinforced.
3. Change emotional state driving behavior - If your dog barks at skateboard riders, other dogs, or the mailman, there is often an underlying emotional state that is driving that behavior. Using positive reinforcement based behavior modification can get to the root of that issue and work on the fear that is often expressed in unwanted barking, growling, lunging, etc., to make for a more relaxed and happy pup.
4. Builds confidence - Fun and enriching experiences help to build your dog's confidence which can help to minimize or eliminate many problematic behaviors that are driven by fear and anxiety. As the animal learns that it has some control over it's environment by performing specific behaviors to produce desired outcomes, it gains confidence.
5. Supported by research and recommended by top behaviorists - According to the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), positive reinforcement is the least intrusive teaching/training method, and: "Positive reinforcement should be the first line of teaching, training and behavior change program considered, and should be applied consistently. Positive reinforcement is associated with the lowest incidence of aggression, attention-seeking, and avoidance/fear in learners." (2)