Reinforcement Techniques Used In Dog Training

By Kurt Dorey

An obedient dog is a good dog, but they do not get this way naturally. In order to get a well-trained dog, one must begin the dog's training and conditioning while the dog is still very young. For the most part, people attempt dog training on their own, however there are a few who may turn to an obedience school for very thorough dog training.

Positive reinforcement is the most widely recognized technique used in training a dog. This is normally achieved by a reward system. The reward can come in the form of verbal praising of the dog's actions or, an even more effective manifestation, in the way of a treat. The dog treat as a reward virtually guarantees cooperation from your pet.

On the other side of the coin, many pet owners use negative reinforcement to combat bad behavior. This can be as simple as the classic "bad dog" or a tap on their behind to let them know that they were bad. Many advanced forms of negative reinforcement use some sort of electric collar.

A bark collar is a common device used in dog training for dogs that bark too frequently. A bark collar can be fitted around the dog's neck and will send out a mild electric shock every time the dog barks. By doing so, the dog will eventually learn not to bark.

Another form of electrical negative reinforcement that follows the same theory is the shock collar for the invisible fence. The invisible fence will set up boundaries for the dog. After the dog gets a few shocks from trying to cross the boundary, the dog will eventually learn where it can and cannot go.

Housebreaking a dog is a very important step during training. Both types of reinforcements should be implemented, keeping the negative reinforcement extremely mild. When a dog goes to the bathroom outside, she should be rewarded. If she goes to the bathroom inside, use mild dicipline. A dog's name should not be used for negative reinforcement as the dog may think he is just being summoned.

Training a dog is by no means a picnic, but the reward for the owner come the end of it is invaluable. There is a large measure of patience involved in dog training particularly when the dog is quite young, but as the dog grows the patience pays off. A well-trained dog can be the perfect lifetime companion to any individual or family. - 32366

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