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Getting your pet to do what you want and being loved for it? Sounds too good to be true! Yet, using positive reinforcement as a training method not only puts you in charge but enhances the bond you have with your pet.
Positive reinforcement is the term used for the training technique where good behaviour is rewarded, and is an extremely effective way to train your dog or cat. It refers to anything that increases the likelihood that a behaviour will be repeated. There is a positive relationship between the behaviour and its consequence, so that the behaviour increases.
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What sort of rewards can I use?
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Rewards differ between animals. Food is usually a well-appreciated reward. Use a treat that the pet only receives for good behaviour, and of course, is more effective before mealtimes. However, praise, a pat or cuddle, or a walk or play period are also good rewards. You need to find what motivates your own pet. Dried liver treats or pieces of cheese or sausage are usually effective for dogs that respond to food rewards. If your dog looks forward to its walk, first give him or her a command, so that the correct response is rewarded, and therefore each reward is earned. Cats respond best to food treats, but only when hungry!
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When should I give a reward?
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Timing of the reward is important. Your dog or cat needs to be able to associate its good behaviour with the reward, so make sure the correct response or behaviour is immediately followed by the reward.
You don’t need to reward your pet every time he or she obeys a command, or behaves well. Once your pet has got the idea, you can reward intermittently, so that he doesn’t expect a reward each time, and this usually produces stronger and longer-lasting behaviour responses. If you find that intermittent rewards stop working, go back to consistent rewarding until learning is complete again, then try the intermittent approach. Cats tend to require reinforcement at a higher rate than dogs. If you are still having problems, there could be many sources including timing of reward, or you may be confusing your pet unknowingly.
To help, dog and cat trainers are available, and your local veterinarian may be able to recommend someone in your area.
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When are rewards inappropriate?
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Remember, rewards are for good behaviour. If you give positive reinforcement for undesirable behaviour, it will be repeated. For example, giving attention to a barking dog, or using soothing tones for a dog that is acting aggressively, or patting a dog that jumps up on you, are all ways of increasing the wrong behaviour. Barking dogs can be a big problem, as they stop barking once you pat them, or let them inside, or whatever it is they want, as they perceive it as a reward for barking.
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Editor: Dr Julia Adams BVSc
Contributors: Dr Rebecca Bragg BVSc
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