Did you just get a new puppy? Are you wondering how you are going to train it to be a well-behaved dog when it grows up? Now you could also be struggling to train an older dog too. There is one method of training a dog that is respected above all others, and that is positive reinforcement.
Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is a long-standing method of training
dogs that has been found to be quite effective. It is so effective because it is kind in nature. This works on the principle of rewarding good behavior to bring about the desired behavior. Negative feedback is given to correct bad behavior too though. This can be a sound or even spraying the dog a bit with water. It is just meant to divert the dog's attention away from the bad behavior and back onto the good behavior. Included in this category of training there are a number of different versions. Read on to find out the different versions...
Using food as a positive reinforcement definitely gets the attention of the dog. It can be a commercial treat of
dogs, cheese, slices of hot
dogs or anything nutritious that the dog eats for a treat. Remember though these only have to be little bites not big ones. When the dog performs a desired behavior the treat is given. If the dog does do the desired behavior no treat is given. Dog's value these food rewards and will work towards getting them.
Clicker training is an effective method for positive reinforcement too. For obedience training it is one of the more popular methods. This involves a small device that makes a clicking sound when operated. The sound is the positive reinforcement in this training method. It can eventually be replaced with a pat on the head once the dog has learned the behavior.
Just simply praising your dog is also an effective method of positive reinforcement. Praise can also be used along with the other methods listed above. This is simply patting the dog's head or petting him to show you are pleased. Also speak in a loving tone of voice. Tell him what a good dog he has been.
If you are looking for an obedience school in place of you working with your dog alone, make sure the school trains in a positive manner. Ask to observe some of the classes before paying any money to sign your dog up. This way you can be sure if you want your dog to go to that school.
Positive reinforcement is a very humane way of training your dog. Harsh methods of training
dogs do not reap the results you desire. These methods just make the
dogs mean or scared of you. But with the kind and loving positive reinforcement you can get the
dogs to do the exact behavior desired. This will not frighten the
dogs or make them angry. It will encourage them to do the behavior to please you.
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