What is Positive Reinforcement?

What exactly is Positive Reinforcement Dog Training?

It's simply rewarding your dog for doing the right thing rather than punishing them for doing the wrong thing. In which case, she probably doesn't even know that she's doing the wrong thing. It's up to us to teach him this. Through rewards and praise.

Think of it like this....would you punish an 8 year old for not knowing how to do Geometry? Of course not, he hasn't learned it. So that would be cruel wouldn't it?

Unfortunately I see this cruelty inflicted upon dogs every single day. Humans get frustrated with their dogs for not sitting or coming to them or not walking nicely on leash, but it's the HUMANS fault. They haven't taught the dogs how to carry out these tasks. Or they've taught them, but the relationship is not intact because the dog learned these things through coercion (punishment), so the dog has no positive motivation to listen to their human...who is now somewhat of an enemy to him.

I have learned through my work with hundreds (maybe even thousands now) of dogs that they are most responsive...and the happiest, when they are rewarded for what they've done. You can see it in their bright eyes, wagging tails and proud stances....and sometimes even their smiles.

What's Not Positive?

If any one of the tools or technique below are used, your training/trainer is not positive.

Rather than helping your dog, you are hurting them and destroying the bond between you and your Best Friend...

1) Prong collars are not positive.
2) Choke collars are not positive.
3) Shock collars are not positive.
4) Citronella Spray is not positive.
5) Leash corrections - when the handler yanks up on the collar to "correct" the dog.
6) Alpha Rolls - when the handler forces the dog into a down position...usually on the dogs back until the dog "submits."
7) Shaking the dog at the scruff of the neck is not positive.
8) Hitting, kicking, slamming doors on the dog, throwing shoes, yelling. All of these are not positive.

A Truly Positive Trainer will only use praise and treats, will never yell, lose their temper or use physical force to train the dog.

To find a Truly Positive Trainer in your area, click on TrulyDogFriendly.com.

Remember, training is not an excuse to abuse!