Positive Reinforcement: The Key To Training Pet Dogs

Our dogs are sociable animals and they long for our companionship – they relish the time we play with them or show affection. On the other hand, dogs can sometimes display dominance over the owners and it is where relationship problems arise. Owners often wonder the best method in training pet dogs. The answer? Positive reinforcement.

It’s been proven in many studies that positive reinforcement works best for animals (and even humans!). Isn’t it flattering to get praised for something you did? The same is true with your furry friends.

Positive reinforcement is as simple as rewarding or offering a treat, or verbally praising your dog when he’s accomplished something you wanted him to do. The rewards encourage your dog to repeat doing the good behavior because he will begin to associate a certain trick or behavior with the reward or treat.

Positive reinforcement is very effective when training pet dogs. In fact, you may have done this many times already. Recall the time and your dog’s reaction when you praised him for waiting while you transferred some dog food in his bowl.

Correcting timing
Proper timing is important when using positive reinforcement. Make sure rewards are given immediately – within a matter of seconds – for your pet to associate the treat for the behavior. It is no longer timely to reward your dog for sitting down just when he’s already standing up.

Consistency
Being consistent when training pet dogs is very important and this applies to positive reinforcement. Be sure to reward your pet for accomplishing a desirable behavior. When treats are not available at that time your pet learns a trick, offer praises or affection instead which can be in form of hugs or a walk around the neighborhood.

When to apply positive reinforcement
It’s been said that timing is crucial in training pet dogs, but there are specific instances when you can apply positive reinforcement. These include such commands as sit, lie down, leave it, come, stand, off (the furniture or you), settle, let’s go, roll over, and other special tricks you taught your pet. Remember not to miss giving the reward as soon as your pet accomplishes a command, which is very important when training pet dogs.

A treat or reward should be something irresistible to your pet – otherwise, he may simply brush it off. Also offer different treats at a time but taking note of your dog’s favorite.

Training pet dogs is fun and fulfilling and it offers all the benefits you could ever want – an obedient pet and a less stressful life with your furry bestfriend.