Modern dog training relies heavily on positive reinforcement – that is, the use of rewards to encourage a dog to repeat a desired behavior. Sounds good! And who doesn’t love giving a dog a tasty treat?

But knowing how to use rewards is not as straight forward as it may seem. Here’s a question for you: what do you consider a reward? Research tells us that for many workers, monetary rewards are not as meaningful as flexible hours, being able to work from home, or a chance to earn time off. And some people work for the love of the activity (though we often call these hobbies as they don’t pay the bills!).

Just like us, dogs vary in what they consider rewarding. Some do enjoy food rewards and will do just about anything for a treat. Others prefer toys, freedom, specific activities, social interaction, or the joy of the activity itself. Complicating things a bit more, what can be rewarding to a dog in one situation may have no value under other circumstances.

 

Modern dog training relies heavily on positive reinforcement – that is, the use of rewards to encourage a dog to repeat a desired behavior. Similar but technically quite different, a lure is the use of anything that attracts the dog, and used to guide or encourage the dog into a position or to follow a path.

 

This webinar will help you understand how to use positive reinforcement to its full effect. We’ll cover:

  • Lure vs reward vs bribe - what's the difference?
  • What matters most when & where - why the favorite treat at home may mean nothing in the real world
  • The role of safety, appetite & play - "not now, thanks anyhow"
  • Variety/novelty/gradation of value - not all rewards are created equal
  • Extrinsic vs intrinsic reinforcement - paycheck or joy?
  • Anticipation & dopamine - AHA and "Got it!" moments are powerful
  • Marking and bridging (put down the cheese!)
  • Show me the cookie - bribery has its place
  • Be the cookie! the power of social interaction 
  • Indecent proposals - avoiding the punishment of rewards


When used well, reward based training can be incredibly powerful and so much more than just dipping into your stash of chicken & cheese. It’s about listening to that specific dog, providing rewards that are rich and meaningful, including yourself and the celebration of social interaction.


This webinar offers practical information that can help you and your dog, or your clients and their dogs. Join us!

Rewards, Lures and Bribes

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