Training your dog : Positive Reinforcement

It is much more effective to teach your dog what he CAN do rather than what he CAN’T do. Thus, positive reinforcement is the best method to train your dog. Positive reinforcement can be treats, praise, petting, or even playtime with a favorite toy. Correct timing and consistency are vital in positive reinforcement. The positive reinforcement must come immediately after the act in order for your dog to make the proper associations between the reward and the act. Everyone in the home must be consistent in what behaviors are being praised. For example, if your dog is newly house trained, be sure to give him a treat and praise him each time he eliminates in the appropriate areas immediately after he eliminates. Once your dog is more accustomed to eliminating in the proper areas, you can begin to wean him off treats and lower the intensity of praise. 

Negative reinforcement can also be used, but be careful to only use it properly and only under the appropriate conditions. Just as positive reinforcement works by associating positive thoughts with desired behavior, negative reinforcement works by associated negative thoughts with undesired behavior. Negative reinforcement can be a posture, noise, or a physical act meant to deter your pet from a specific action. Punishment is only effective when administered while the dog is doing the undesired action. If the negative reinforcement is given too late, even by a few seconds, the link will not be made. Punishment will seem unpredictable and frightening to your dog. If done improperly, negative reinforcement can worsen or even create new behavior problems in your dog. No physical punishment should cause pain or discomfort. Be very careful with the severity of your punishment so as not to harm or shock your dog, both for the safety of your dog as well as your own. 

For your own safety and the sake of your relationship with your dog, it is best to work through aversives to distance yourself from the applied negative reinforcement: 

•Textures: Double-sided carpet tape, heavy plastic carpet runners (turned upside down),  irregularly shaped rocks, or chicken wire can be applied to surfaces to discourage dogs from entering an area. 

• Tastes: Certain sprays and gels are made specifically for the application to objects that you do not want your dog to chew on. They are often potent citrus smells and tastes.

 • Human controlled tools: Spray bottles, air cans, or whistles can be used to interrupt and stop undesired behavior. 

 • Remote-controlled tools: Motion detectors that deliver a sharp sound when crossed can be used to provide correction when you are not around. 

 Remember to be patient with your dog throughout the training process. As you work to modify undesired behaviors, be sure to provide your dog with proper outlets for his natural dog behaviors. Train, play, and exercise your dog regularly to ensure a healthy and happy relationship between you your dog.