The truth of the matter is that when it comes to dog training, reward training is one of the older, proven methods employed. This comes as a surprise to some who have recently discovered it and perhaps are unaware of its long and successful history. The truth of the matter is that it has been used successfully for literally thousands of years, perhaps as far back as when wolf pups were trained to become domesticated dogs by very early in life humans!
It is for several decades now that the current methods of reward training have been employed. In the past 10 years or so, reward training has gained even far greater recognition.
The fact of the matter is that the current proponents of reward training, in general, are not overly enthusiastic when other dog training methods like the leash and collar type are mentioned. But the truth of the matter is that a combination of reward training with the leash and collar training may, in fact, be the very best training for your dog.
You should also be aware that even though one training style works great for one dog, it may in fact not be the best choice to be made for another one. The truth is that some dogs may be better responding to the leash and collar method while others will respond successfully to reward training. The good news is that somewhere in between is where the majority of dogs will fall.
In the world of reward training, the method known as clicker training has gained great popularity. It has enjoyed success with many dogs even though it is not the choice for every dog. Basically, clicker training works by teaching the animal the positive reinforcement which is associated with a clicking sound. That positive enforcement may be some sort of a treat the dog will enjoy. The dog will do something well, the clicker will be initiated by the trainer who will then offer the dog a treat immediately. After a period of time doing this, the dog will, in fact, respond positively to the clicker only.
A food reward is the most common treat used in reward training. Virtually always, this type of reinforcement is used to teach complex behaviors or tricks to the dog. Trainers working with dogs for television and movie use this food based reward training consistently and for the most part exclusively.
When the matter turns to dog training for military and police work, reward training is the method most often employed. It has shown to have great success in tracking and scent detection training. Of course, in basic dog training commands it may also be put to use.
In reward training, to entice the dog into a desired stance or position, a lure is frequently put to use. Doing so aids the dog to think they are performing the behavior being sought of their own volition.
To get a behavior carried out by the dog without being handled is just so important. The truth of the matter is, in fact, getting the dog, without any handling by the trainer, to execute a behavior is actually the point of the training itself.
When the commanded behavior has in fact been carried out by the dog, they are then rewarded with a food treat or some other positive reinforcement. That reinforcement may be some sort of verbal praise for example.
When it comes to the reward trained dog, it is so important they also are a reliable dog. There is little doubt that the dog trained to do drug detection or police work can expect to be subject to outside distractions. This is why it is so important they can maintain their focus as best they possibly can around the expected diversions.
Very often, dog trainers conduct their training in the yard or the home when the owner is present. The truth is that removing the dog from their comfort zone and introducing them to new situations and people is so important.
Reward training, when executed properly, is the very best method of training to earn the attention and the respect of the dog.
In case you didn’t see it: Here’s an online dog training program that can STOP your dog unwanted behaviors!
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