We will describe in a few simple words the necessity of reward in dog training. Why it is important to reward, when and how to reward. We reward to raise the possibility that a wanted behaviour be repeated. Connecting a behaviour to something pleasant makes it more likely for the behaviour to be repeated. Reward straight away. If markers are used, reward right after marking. If markers are not used, reward immediately after the desired behaviour. Treats, toys , petting and more can be used as reward. We chose the kind of reward to use, according to the level of training and the dog we are training. Why food is mainly used as reward in dog training ?
1. Because it is something a dog values, easy to use and makes it more likely for the behaviour we are teaching to be repeated. 2.We can use food to lure the dog to the desired position.
I will use the command “sit” as an example. After having done the necessary preparation to charge the marker – if markers are used. If markers are not used, go straight to the next step. We teach the dog to follow the hand with the treat. Once this is understood and while the dog is following the hand with the treat, we slightly raise the hand with the treat . The muzzle will follow the hand ( upwards) and the rear legs will be lowered. The dog is in “sit” position now. Mark and reward. If markers are not used, reward once the dog is in “sit” position. Then it is time to name the command. The aforementioned is a very simple and quick way to teach a dog the “sit” and other commands. An other way is free shaping. I will make this as simple as possible to understand, even for those with no idea of how training works. Just be with the dog and watch him. Once the dog performs a desired behaviour, mark and reward. Like we've already said, rewarded behaviour will most likely be repeated. The “sit” command for example. I see the dog has sat. I mark and reward. The dog will very soon offer the “sit” again. Mark and reward. Then, name the command. A third way ,without food , is escape and avoidance training. We only refer to this training method so you know it exists and is used by some trainers. We do not use this kind of training and we suggest you do not use it either. It works like this. To teach the “sit” command for example, the dog wears a choke collar. The trainer gives the “sit” command , pulls the leash upwards while pressing the dog's lower back downwards. Then loosens the leash and says “good”.
The dog will very soon understand that when he hears “sit”, he has to sit very quickly in order to avoid being chocked and pressed upon. In essence, the dog will perform the command in order to avoid the unpleasant experience without really understanding what he is doing. There is absolutely no reason to stress a dog like that when we have other , pleasant for the dog and effective ways to train the dog. For those who are sceptical about using food as reward in dog training – because they suppose the dog will perform only if there is food for reward- I have this to say: With proper training there is nothing to worry about. As training advances , we stop luring the dog with treats to the desired position and rewarding with treats is gradually decreased. We replace treats with petting. We use a toy for reward if we want to keep the dog high in drive.
Feel free to comment with your questions about things you would like to know about Dog training and the Bull Terrier. We will be more than happy to address your interests in our future posts.
The Working Bull Terriers kennel team
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