Positive Reinforcement Basics
Positive Reinforcement Basics: How to Get Your Dog to Do What You Want
Positive reinforcement is basically the gold standard for dog training—it’s all about rewarding good behavior instead of punishing the bad. And let’s be honest, it works way better than yelling or giving your dog the silent treatment. With this method, your dog will be wagging their tail while doing exactly what you want, and you’ll both be happier for it.
Step 1: Rewards, Rewards, RewardsPositive reinforcement is all about rewarding the behaviors you want to see more of. This can be treats, praise, or playtime—whatever your dog loves most. As soon as they do something right, shower them with their favorite reward. They’ll quickly learn that good behavior = good stuff.
Step 2: Timing is EverythingTo make positive reinforcement work, timing is key. Reward your dog immediately after they perform the desired behavior, so they connect the action with the reward. If you wait too long, they’ll have no idea why they’re getting a treat—and you might accidentally reward them for chewing the couch instead of sitting politely.
Step 3: Stay Consistent (No Mixed Signals)Consistency is the secret sauce of positive reinforcement. Make sure everyone in the household is on the same page when it comes to training. If one person rewards a behavior and another ignores it, your dog will be confused—and might start testing the waters to see what they can get away with.
Step 4: Gradually Reduce TreatsOnce your dog has mastered a behavior, you can start reducing the number of treats you give. Praise and affection can gradually replace food rewards, but always throw in the occasional treat to keep them on their toes (or paws).
Step 1: Rewards, Rewards, RewardsPositive reinforcement is all about rewarding the behaviors you want to see more of. This can be treats, praise, or playtime—whatever your dog loves most. As soon as they do something right, shower them with their favorite reward. They’ll quickly learn that good behavior = good stuff.
Step 2: Timing is EverythingTo make positive reinforcement work, timing is key. Reward your dog immediately after they perform the desired behavior, so they connect the action with the reward. If you wait too long, they’ll have no idea why they’re getting a treat—and you might accidentally reward them for chewing the couch instead of sitting politely.
Step 3: Stay Consistent (No Mixed Signals)Consistency is the secret sauce of positive reinforcement. Make sure everyone in the household is on the same page when it comes to training. If one person rewards a behavior and another ignores it, your dog will be confused—and might start testing the waters to see what they can get away with.
Step 4: Gradually Reduce TreatsOnce your dog has mastered a behavior, you can start reducing the number of treats you give. Praise and affection can gradually replace food rewards, but always throw in the occasional treat to keep them on their toes (or paws).