05/07/2025
A long time ago I prepared a video about Cues VS Commands in Dog Training.
Here's a quick summary of the content of that video:
- **Command vs. Cue in Dog Training**:
- A **command** implies a threat or authoritative order ("Do it or I will make you do it").
- A **cue** signals that a certain behaviour will lead to reinforcement without the threat of unpleasant consequences.
- **Training with Commands**:
- Commands are often enforced before the dog fully understands the behaviour.
- Traditional training might involve corrections (verbal or physical) if the dog doesn't obey, e.g., using the "off" command to stop a dog from touching something and correcting them if they fail.
- **Training with Cues**:
- Cues are introduced after the behaviour is reliably happening in easy situations and gradually advanced to more challenging ones.
- No corrections are used for "failures." Instead, the trainer adjusts the training plan to help the dog succeed.
- **Difference in Timing**:
- Commands are often given immediately when a behaviour is expected.
- Cues are added only once the behaviour is consistently happening in a controlled environment, e.g., using a hand signal to prompt "sit" before adding a verbal cue.
- **Personal Training Philosophy**:
- If a dog doesn’t perform a cued behaviour, aversive consequences aren’t used. The focus is on maintaining a positive relationship with the dog.
- **Key Questions to Consider When Cues Aren't Working**:
- Does the dog fully understand the behaviour?
- Was a proper shaping plan used to train the behaviour?
- Has the behaviour been generalised to different situations?
- Is the dog tired, unwell, stressed, or anxious?
- **Reflection**:
- The distinction between cues and commands is less about terminology and more about the training approach.
- A progressive approach with cues and reinforcement is preferred for fostering a positive relationship with the dog.
If you are interested in that video, here it is: https://youtu.be/TxUtPZUHXQA
