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Six Great Reasons to Train Your Dog Using Positive Methods

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Alexandria, VA – Over the last few decades, dog training has experienced a significant philosophical and methodological movement from a punitive/coercive approach toward a philosophy and methodology known as “reward-based training.” This evolution in the dog training industry was partly initiated by several scientific research studies published over the past 20 years on how dogs think and learn. Before that, science rarely studied the dog’s mind, Recent studies show the benefits of using reward-based training over punishment and correction.

Reward-based training works on the premise in behavioral science that all living things repeat behaviors that are rewarded and avoid behaviors that are not. Positive trainers focus on what we want the dog to do instead of what we don’t want the dog to do. With the old-fashioned punishment and correction methods, the trainer waits for the dog to do the wrong behavior – pulling on the leash or jumping up – and then attempts to correct those behaviors with the use of fear or pain.

In this type of training, we use reinforcement to teach good behaviors while withholding reinforcement for behaviors we do not want. Instead of using outdated theories focusing on dominance, we motivate dogs to change behaviors and learn new behaviors and skills. Your dog is more likely to repeat desired behaviors by building value in those behaviors.

Here are six great reasons to use reward-based training:

1. Professional organizations recommend positive reinforcement.

More and more professional animal care and training organizations have taken positions against using punishment in dog training. The American Veterinary Society for Animal Behavior position statement says, “AVSAB endorses training methods which allow animals to work for things (e.g., food, play, affection) that motivate them rather than techniques that focus on using fear or pain to punish them for undesirable behaviors.”

The Association for Professional Dog Training International (APDTI) and other training organizations have a code of practice requiring members to use humane methods instead of aversive techniques.

2. Dog owners achieve faster, more desirable results with positive reinforcement

Studies show positive reinforcement leads to more reliable, consistent, and better-behaved dogs. One study found that dogs of owners who used punishment (whether or not they also used rewards, now called “balanced” training) often encountered problem behaviors such as aggression and excitability (Arhant et al., 2010).

The authors of a second study designed an experiment to compare positive reinforcement to the use of shock collars. When teaching recall in the presence of livestock, they found that shocking dogs did not lead to better-trained dogs and often caused the dogs to show signs of stress (Cooper et al., 2014).

3. Reward-based training is better for an animal’s welfare

Research demonstrates that reward-based training is better for the animal’s welfare than outdated methods. Recent studies conclude that using shock collars (or e-collars) can increase distress. Positive reinforcement prevents this type of canine mental health fallout. It is better for both the dog and the owner.

4. Positive reinforcement dog training is sound enrichment

Dogs learn to problem-solve and think through what gets them a reward. They work their brain, which leads to a happier dog. Scientists call this the “Eureka Effect” because the dog anticipates being rewarded. When dogs are given opportunities to earn their reinforcements, learning becomes enriching.

5. Reward-based training improves a dog’s ability to learn

Engaging a dog’s brain enhances learning abilities. Positive training is more motivating for both the dog and the owner. It’s important to remember that behaviors like jumping, pulling, chewing, and barking are normal and self-reinforcing. Focusing on correcting “bad” behaviors can be frustrating for dogs and their humans.

Positive training teaches dogs what to do by building what scientists call a “reinforcement history.” This approach is more effective and reduces the nagging we humans often do to get our dogs to stop unwanted behaviors.

6. Reward-based dog training is fun!

Dog training should be enjoyable for people and their dogs. Using rewards to teach desired behaviors makes training engaging and helps build a positive bond.

Along with foundation skills like sit, down, come, stay, and walking on a leash, you can also teach more advanced skills, including tricks, dog sports, and concept training.

Research indicates that reward-based training strategies are more effective and advantageous for you and your dog. So, gather your treats, toys, and balls, and let’s get started!

Sandy Modell, CPDT-KA, is the Founder, Owner, and Head of Training of Wholistic Hound Academy, Alexandria’s award-winning, premier canine training and learning center, offering classes and private lessons Classes starting soon! Visit wholistichound.com to enroll in our programs, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram at Instagram.com

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