Why positive reinforcement-based training?
A positive reinforcement-based approach centers the idea that teaching dogs should be effective, fun, and safe.
This means using humane training and behavior modification techniques to teach dogs what we want them to do, addressing the root cause of behavior rather than relying on temporary behavior suppression through punishment and pain-based tools, and managing the environment so that problem behaviors aren’t practiced and desirable behaviors are easily achieved.
Teaching dogs by motivating them and reinforcing behaviors we want is safe, effective, humane, and leads to better relationships between dogs and their people. This is true for all dogs, regardless of breed, age, size, or temperament.
AMERICAN VETERINARY SOCIETY OF ANIMAL BEHAVIOR (AVSAB) POSITION STATEMENTs:
POSITION STATEMENT ON HUMANE DOG TRAINING
“Evidence supports the use of reward based methods for all canine training. AVSAB promotes interactions with animals based on compassion, respect, and scientific evidence. Based on these factors, reward-based learning offers the most advantages and least harm to the learner’s welfare. Research supports the efficacy of reward-based training to address unwanted and challenging behaviors. There is no evidence that aversive training is necessary for dog training or behavior modification.”
POSITION STATEMENT ON THE USE OF DOMINANCE THEORY IN BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION OF ANIMALS
“AVSAB is concerned with the recent re-emergence of dominance theory and forcing dogs and other animals into submission as a means of preventing and correcting behavior problems. For decades, some traditional animal training has relied on dominance theory and has assumed that animals misbehave primarily because they are striving for higher rank. This idea often leads trainers to believe that force or coercion must be used to modify these undesirable behaviors.:
“AVSAB endorses training methods which allow animals to work for things (e.g., food, play, affection) that motivate them rather than techniques that focus on using fear or pain to punish them for undesirable behaviors. Look for a trainer who uses primarily or only reward-based training with treats, toys, and play.”
What is Clicker Training?
"Clicker training" is an animal training method based on behavioral psychology that relies on marking desirable behavior and rewarding it.”
The clicker is a behavior marker. We use it to mark the behavior(s) we like and want to reinforce. Behaviors that are reinforced will increase or become stronger.
Because of its distinct sound and precise ability to mark the very second a behavior is occurring, the clicker is a highly effective tool to teach dogs a variety of skills and behaviors. We can use clicker training to teach anything from fancy tricks, to a reliable recall, to helping dogs with reactivity and aggression.
Clicker training is much more than simply training with a clicker. It’s a philosophy and a practice. Clicker training creates a safe learning environment free from corrections and coercion. It empowers animals in the training process and fosters confidence and enthusiasm. It helps people to effectively and humanely teach their dogs the skills they need for a happy life-long partnership.
