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There are four ways to teach dogs (and other animals - including people) according to learning theory. I'll
start by explaining the methods I do not use. A dog can learn by being punished (usually with pain) when
he does an unwanted behavior. For example, to stop a dog from barking, you could spray him in the face
with water. He can be relieved from a distressed state by doing a wanted behavior. For example, when a
dog performs a certain behavior, the owner will stop pinching his ear. Both of these methods are used in
compulsion (traditional) training and have limited success for several reasons. Basically, although the
owner might see immediate results, the long term results are often poor and there are serious side effects to
using these methods. For more about this, read Don't Shoot the Dog by Karen Pryor.
So, that is a lot of what positive training is NOT. But what is it? It is a combination of the other two methods
used to train animals. The first is positive reinforcement - using a motivator to increase the chance of a dog
doing a certain behavior. For example, giving the dog a treat after he sits. Most people think that positive
training ends here - that it is just an endless slew of treats and praise. I find that effective training
incorporates a fourth method, which is taking something away from the dog in order to decrease an
unwanted behavior. For example, leaving the room (removing yourself) when your puppy nips you.
Positive training uses humane and non-violent methods to train animals to offer wanted behaviors at a
higher frequency and decrease unwanted behaviors. It teaches animals to like learning, encourages
respect and trust between the pet and owner, and relies of basic scientific principles. It is powerful,
effective, and long lasting.
2. What is a clicker?
A clicker is (usually) a small plastic box that makes a clicking sound when you press down on a metal tab.
It is a marker signal - it communicates information to the animal that marks certain behaviors. It is effective
because it is an ultra quick sound and thus, is very precise. It is also neutral - it always sounds the same.
Using a clicker is simple - when the animal does a certain behavior you click to mark it, then provide the
animal a reward for that behavior. The click says to the dog or other pet, "YES, that's IT! What you just did is
exactly what I want to see more of"! It's like taking a polaroid of an instant in time and showing the picture
to the animal so they know what to do to earn rewards.
3. If I use a clicker, will I have to use it forever?
No. You use a clicker to train new behaviors. After the pet has learned the behavior, you can stop using
the clicker - only bringing it out to train the behavior in a different set of criteria (like the first time you train a
down-stay in a park after months of practice in the back yard).
4. Do I have to use food?
No, of course not, but it is very effective and recommended. What would you say if your boss offered to
pay you in lottery tickets? It might be appealing, but not as good as plain old cash (unless you're a
gambler)! Food, like money, is a powerful motivator for most animals. If used correctly, it just facilitates fast
and effective training. Beginning training is where food is most useful. In advanced training, I actually
teach the use of secondary reinforcers such as toys, games like tug, and praise.
5. What equipment do I need for training classes or lessons for my dog?
A flat buckle collar, regular nylon or leather leash (4-6 feet), bait bag, and treats are what I recommend
having for a lesson or class. It's also encouraged to use a clicker. You can use a harness or Gentle Leader if
you feel your dog has additional issues that require it. No choke collars, prong collars or other such
equipment are permitted.
6. So much of your information seems geared towards dogs, what do you do with cats?
I have lived with cats all of my life and done extensive training with cats. I have experience in house soiling
and aggression, specifically. Husbandry (handling your cat) and shyness are also issues I do consultations
for. I apply the same training techniques with all animals - positive, effective, humane!
7. How long will it take to see improvement with my pet's behavior problem?
It is important to understand that there is often no "cure" for many behavior problems and that the amount
and rate of improvement depends on many factors. How seriously you take the issues, how much time you
can dedicate to training, how well you can manage the problem, and how long the problem has existed
all impact the outcome. However, with that said, there is a lot of potential to greatly improve your pet's
behavior! I have seen great success with resource guarding, husbandry, fear based issues, and many other
behavior problems.
Have a question not answered here? Email your questions to Elise!