Dogs

Posts Tagged ‘reward-based training’

Will using rewards make my dog constantly look for food?’

Owners are often worried that if they use reward-based training for puppies, they are encouraging them only to behave well within sight of food. This is not true. Reward-based training begins with rewarding the desired behaviour every time it occurs and connecting the command to the behaviour.

Verbal praise is also given with a food reward. Once the behaviour has been learned, the food rewards are given intermittently and finally can be phased out entirely if you wish. This is because your verbal praise is automatically associated with the food reward and becomes an adequate reward in itself. Simply put, the food is a primary reinforcement and your voice a secondary reinforcement

To own a well-adjusted, well-behaved dog with which you can enjoy and share life requires a considerable investment of time and energy on your part. It is important to prepare yourself as much as possible prior to purchasing it. Keeping up to date on the latest information on dog training and behaviour will enable you to gain an under­standing of what to expect from your dog as it grows and develops, much as you do when rearing a child. If you are diligent with training, particularly in the first two years of its life, you will reap the rewards of a well-behaved companion that is a joy to own. Remember, though, to be realistic in your expectations and prepare to forgive mistakes and celebrate achievements.

TRAINERS

Trainers are those who run dog-obedience schools. Some of these people have certificates in dog training from recognized training schools using modern approved methods.

However, there are many people who have set up as trainers with little or no formal qualification, and others who are still using obsolete training methods based on punishment. Make sure you approach an approved trainer. Bear in mind, though, that although they can address your dog’s unruly behaviour, they are not equipped to advise on aggression and barking, and are not qualified to deal with anxiety-based disorders.