Reward-Based Training
What is Reward-Based Training?
Reward-based training means we set your dog up to do appropriate behaviors and then make those actions the most rewarding. Every behavior that happens more than twice is getting some sort of reward or reinforcement. Whether it's an outlet for pent up energy, getting extra attention, or just giving them what they need to feel safe, they will always choose what they think will be the most beneficial. All creatures have a natural drive to feel safe and again access life’s necessities. It’s our job to make them feel happy and safe living in our world.
We will teach your dog that interacting with you and doing wanting behaviors gives them more rewards. This will drive your dog to actively engage in their own training progression. Reward-based training is about strengthening their behavior to willingly choose appropriate actions in daily situations. This will increase their self control and harness their mental energy.
But I just want my dog to stop….
A healthy part of training is to address unwanted, inappropriate, or potentially dangerous behavior our dogs may do. To have a safe home and routine there are actions we need to prevent and stop. Reward-based training looks at the causes of unwanted behavior. Evaluating and addressing the triggers, driving force, and direct reinforcement to those actions. Often unwanted behavior has health, stress, anxiety factors that will never go away with punishment and if punishment or coercion is used there is a high likelihood the root problem will increase.
Changing habits is hard for all learners. Just (trying) stopping a behavior that once provided habitual reinforcement will often fail because it doesn’t replace the need that behavior gave. As we address the root cause of the unwanted behavior, we will also set our dogs up to do alternative behaviors that will channel the energy or needs. Creating healthy effective behavior change.
Recommendations & Resources on Reward-Based Training
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American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior
“Evidence supports the use of reward based methods for all canine training. AVSAB promotes interactions with animals based on compassion, respect, and scientific evidence. Based on these factors, reward-based learning offers the most advantages and least harm to the learner’s welfare. “
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Fear Free Happy Homes
“Ideally, the trainer you choose is certified or has a graduate status through a trusted, reward-based educational institution. Many trainers list credentials on their website or following their name. If you don’t see credentials, ask. Seek out trainers who have gained credentialing or schooling through educational institutions rooted in humane, reward-based methods.”
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International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
“Scientific research has clearly established that best practices in animal training and behavior require positive reinforcement-based strategies, competent evaluation of effectiveness, and the ability to communicate effectively with both human and animal clients. Further, these strategies must be founded on established principles of learning and assessment.
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Private Training Sessions
Training session in your home or neighborhood. These are great for hands on practice with patience guidance and instruction. Tailor training plans to learn and work on what you want.
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Day Training & Walks
Got a bored pup at home that could use some extra training practice while you are at work? Schedule them a training session that they will love and help them practice their skills.
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Pet Care Visits
Does your pet need drop-in visits or walks to make sure they stay healthy and happy? Schedule with an expert to make sure your pet gets all of the care they need.