Using the Environment as a Reward in Dog Training
Many dogs are naturally motivated by their surroundings—scents, sights, and sounds can be highly rewarding. Instead of relying solely on treats or toys, you can use these environmental factors as rewards to reinforce good behavior.
How to Use the Environment as a Reward:
1. Sniffing as a Reinforcer
Dogs experience the world through their noses. If your dog enjoys sniffing, use it as a reward!
Example: Ask for a behavior like a "sit" or "wait" before releasing them to sniff a favorite spot.
2. Access to Play Areas
If your dog loves running in an open field or playing in the garden, use that to your advantage.
Example: Before letting them off-leash, ask for a behavior like “heel” or “check-in.” When they comply, reward them with freedom.
3. Social Interactions
If your dog enjoys meeting people or other dogs, teach them polite greetings.
Example: Have them sit before saying hello to a friend. Reward them with the opportunity to engage.
4. Chasing & Exploring
Many dogs love chasing leaves, squirrels (without catching them!), or simply exploring new areas.
Example: If your dog recalls successfully, reward them by letting them run again instead of always putting them on a leash.
Benefits of Using the Environment as a Reward:
✅ Builds real-life reliability – Your dog learns to listen even when distracted.
✅ Encourages engagement – Your dog sees you as the gateway to exciting things.
✅ Reduces treat dependency – Your dog responds because they enjoy the behavior, not just food rewards.
Would you try this with your dog? Let me know your experiences!
Liked this tip? Follow for more! 🥰
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Using the Environment as a Reward in Dog Training
Many dogs are naturally motivated by their surroundings—scents, sights, and sounds can be highly rewarding. Instead of relying solely on treats or toys, you can use these environmental factors as rewards to reinforce good behavior.
How to Use the Environment as a Reward:
1. Sniffing as a Reinforcer
Dogs experience the world through their noses. If your dog enjoys sniffing, use it as a reward!
Example: Ask for a behavior like a "sit" or "wait" before releasing them to sniff a favorite spot.
2. Access to Play Areas
If your dog loves running in an open field or playing in the garden, use that to your advantage.
Example: Before letting them off-leash, ask for a behavior like “heel” or “check-in.” When they comply, reward them with freedom.
3. Social Interactions
If your dog enjoys meeting people or other dogs, teach them polite greetings.
Example: Have them sit before saying hello to a friend. Reward them with the opportunity to engage.
4. Chasing & Exploring
Many dogs love chasing leaves, squirrels (without catching them!), or simply exploring new areas.
Example: If your dog recalls successfully, reward them by letting them run again instead of always putting them on a leash.
Benefits of Using the Environment as a Reward:
✅ Builds real-life reliability – Your dog learns to listen even when distracted.
✅ Encourages engagement – Your dog sees you as the gateway to exciting things.
✅ Reduces treat dependency – Your dog responds because they enjoy the behavior, not just food rewards.
Would you try this with your dog? Let me know your experiences!
Liked this tip? Follow for more! 🥰
#riask9 #dogtrainingshouldbefun
#dogtrainer #dogtraining #dogownership #recallyourdog #recalltraining #recall #positivereinforcementdogtraining #positivereinforcement #workingdogs #workingdog #dogtrainingadvice #dogtrainingtips #happydogs
"Run like a girl" or get the dog?
Thinking about getting a personal protection dog?
I wanted to talk about this a little bit before all the disaster gets loose again caused by a (rather brilliant) tiktok trend..
It may be empowering, it still can get dangerous very quickly..
Owning a protection dog isn't just about having a fierce-looking companion—it’s a serious responsibility and liability. These highly trained dogs require constant reinforcement, socialization, and structured leadership. They aren’t just pets; they’re working animals that need purpose, daily training, and a confident handler.
Before you commit, ask yourself: Are you ready for the time, effort, and responsibility that come with owning a protection dog? If not, maybe running like a girl isn’t such a bad idea after all. And never forget, running is not shameful, it does not mean you are not strong enough! It means you are smart. You have analised your options and choose to the best of your abilities. you were strong enough to run ❤️🩹 None of it is your fault.
(Disclaimer: thank you for the star client for letting me share this rather funny moment with Maja the pocket bully!
Mistakes happen and it is only our attitude that will create the consequences! She handled the fall very well, didn't remove her eye from the target, and she's learnt to never let go of the lead. Afterall, it is a mile long for a reason!😜 She shook it and laughed it off, and frankly I applaud her attempted reflexes! We only succeed with trying and failure is part of success!)
#runlikeagirl #tiktoktrend
#womenrights #mentalhealthmatters #survivors
#ProtectionDogs #Responsibility #dogtraining #dogownership #Malinois #TrainedNotTame #malinoistraining #psa #riask9 #dogtrainer
Is food still your primary reward?
Or have you tried PLAY? 🐾
Food rewards are great for training, but they have limits. If you really want to build engagement, motivation, and drive, play might be the better choice! Here’s why:
🔥 Stronger Bond: Play is interactive, creating a deeper connection between you and your dog. Treats disappear in seconds, but play keeps them engaged longer!
🏃♂️ Energy Release: Many dogs get overstimulated with food but thrive when training involves movement and excitement. Play helps burn energy while reinforcing behaviors!
🎯 More Motivation: A game of tug or chase taps into your dog’s natural instincts, making training feel like a fun challenge rather than a chore.
🐕 Reliable in Any Situation: When distractions are high, a high-value toy or a fun game can often hold your dog’s attention better than food!
So, if you’re relying only on treats, try mixing in some play—you might be amazed at the results! What’s your dog’s favorite game? Drop a comment below! ⬇️🎾
#riask9 #dogtraining #dogtrainingtips #dogtrainingadvice #dailytip #playwithyourdog #dogobedience
#PlayNotJustFood #Engagement #HappyDogs
Why Taking Your Dog to Different Locations is Important!
Did you know that exposing your dog to varied environments is great for their mental and physical well-being? Here’s why changing up your pup’s routine is a game-changer:
🐾 Mental Stimulation – New sights, smells, and sounds keep your dog engaged and prevent boredom, reducing destructive behaviors.
🏞️ Confidence Building – Exploring different places helps dogs adapt to new situations, making them more confident and less anxious in unfamiliar settings.
🐕 Better Socialization – Meeting different people, animals, and surroundings teaches your dog how to behave in a variety of situations.
💪 Physical Exercise – Different terrains (grass, sand, pavement, trails) work different muscle groups, improving overall fitness.
🧠 Prevents Fearfulness – Regular exposure to new environments helps prevent fear-based reactions later in life.
♻️ Prevents Boredom & Anxiety – A repetitive route can become dull, while new adventures keep your pup excited!
Ditch the same old path—explore a new park, trail, or pet-friendly store. Your dog will thank you with a wagging tail and a happy heart. ❤️🐶
💬 Did you find this interesting? Follow for weekly tips! 🥰
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Why Taking Your Dog to Different Locations is Important!
Did you know that exposing your dog to varied environments is great for their mental and physical well-being? Here’s why changing up your pup’s routine is a game-changer:
🐾 Mental Stimulation – New sights, smells, and sounds keep your dog engaged and prevent boredom, reducing destructive behaviors.
🏞️ Confidence Building – Exploring different places helps dogs adapt to new situations, making them more confident and less anxious in unfamiliar settings.
🐕 Better Socialization – Meeting different people, animals, and surroundings teaches your dog how to behave in a variety of situations.
💪 Physical Exercise – Different terrains (grass, sand, pavement, trails) work different muscle groups, improving overall fitness.
🧠 Prevents Fearfulness – Regular exposure to new environments helps prevent fear-based reactions later in life.
♻️ Prevents Boredom & Anxiety – A repetitive route can become dull, while new adventures keep your pup excited!
Ditch the same old path—explore a new park, trail, or pet-friendly store. Your dog will thank you with a wagging tail and a happy heart. ❤️🐶
💬 Did you find this interesting? Follow for weekly tips! 🥰
#riask9 #dogwalkingadvice #dogwalking #dogwalkingservices #dogtrainingadvice #dogtrainingtips
#DogHealth #HappyPup #DogAdventures #PetCareTips #dogwelfaretips
⏳ Too Busy to Train Your Dog? It Takes Less Time Than You Think! ⏳
🐶 Here’s the secret: Just 5 minutes a day can transform your dog—and your life!
✨ Imagine this:
You’re out on a walk, and your pup is calm, focused, and sitting patiently by your side, even as kids zoom by on bikes, squirrels dart around, and other dogs bark nearby.
No pulling, no barking—just trust, connection, and quiet confidence built in just a few minutes a day.
✨ Try This Quick Sit-Stay Challenge:
1️⃣ Burn Off Energy First: Start with a quick, playful game of tug-of-war to get your dog excited and focused.
2️⃣ Practice “Sit”: Ask your dog to sit front of you, facing you. Mark the behavior (“Yes!”), and reward them with a treat.
3️⃣ Challenge Their Focus: Swing your arms or take a small step back. If your dog stays seated, reward them. If they break position, gently guide them back—no need to repeat the command!
4️⃣ Level Up: Add more steps backward each session, keeping training short and fun. Always end with a happy, high-energy game to keep your dog motivated!
🎯 How far can YOU go in 7 days?
Share your progress in the comments or tag me in your training videos—I’d love to celebrate your wins!
🐾 Like these tips? Follow me for more quick ways to train your dog—and don’t forget to share this post with fellow dog lovers who could use a little training inspiration!
(P.S.: Want to take your dog’s skills to the next level? Stay tuned—more puppy classes are launching soon!)
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#gloucestershire
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#staycommand #dogobedience
Training your dog can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it's also easy to make mistakes—especially when emotions run high. Here's a reflection on what I learned the hard way and how I’ve adjusted my approach to create a more positive training environment:
❌ Mistakes I used to make:
Training while stressed.
Letting frustration take over during sessions.
Training for too long, pushing both myself and my dog too hard.
Ending training on a frustrated note.
✅ What I focus on now:
Approaching training with a calm and clear mindset.
Keeping sessions short and engaging to prevent burnout.
Ending on a high note to leave both me and my dog feeling successful and motivated.
Dogs thrive on positivity and consistency. If you feel overwhelmed during training, it’s okay to pause, reset, and try again later. Your relationship with your dog will grow stronger when you work as a team in a calm and constructive way.
Remember: Training is as much about us learning as it is about teaching our dogs!
Have you experienced similar challenges in your dog-training journey? Share your stories below—I’d love to hear how you overcame them!
#dogtraining #dogtrainingshouldbefun #dogtrainingadvice #dogtraining101 #puppytraining #dogobedience #dogtrainingtips #dogobediencetraining #positivedogtraining #recalltraining #energyflow
Last Chance to Get Your Pup Ready for Holiday Season! 🐾
Picture this: your puppy barking like a fire alarm when visitors arrive or trembling under the table as fireworks explode outside. It doesn’t have to be this way. With just a few focused training sessions, you can build their confidence and avoid driving your neighbors (and yourself) up the wall.
For older dogs, starting now sets the stage for long-term progress, helping them grow braver and more secure over time.
⏳ Time is Running Out—Dec 14 is the Final Day to Start Training for New Year’s Eve!
💡 What Makes My Training Different?
✅ Personalized methods tailored to your dog.
✅ Game-based training you’ll both love.
✅ A focus on strengthening your bond—not rigid obedience drills.
📩 Message me now—only a few spots left before Dec 14!
#DogTraining #FireworksDogs #ConfidentDogs #riask9 #fireworks #gloucesterdogs #confidencebuilding #dogtrainingshouldbefun
💥🎆 Is Your Dog Ready for Fireworks Season? Let’s Get Them Prepared! 🐾
Fireworks can be tough on dogs—panic, fear, even trying to escape. But the good news? With the right training, you can help your dog feel more confident — even during something as loud as fireworks.
🐶 Perfect for Anxious Pups
My game-based training is ideal for pups and those eager to learn new skills. It’s not about obedience—it’s about building a strong bond and confidence that makes stressful situations easier to handle.
💡 Why it works:
✅Tailored to your dog’s personality and unique needs.
✅Builds confidence for both dog and handler through fun, engaging games.
✅Turns training into quality time for you and your pup.
⏳ Why Start Before Dec 14?
To get results by New Year’s, we need time to work together and teach your dog how to handle stress. Starting now gives us the best chance to help your dog thrive this fireworks season.
📩 Message me today to secure your spot and make the most of your dog’s training journey!
#riask9 #dogtraining #fireworks #fireworksanddogs #Gloucester #dogtraining101
Ever feel like your dog training isn't going as planned? Trust me, you're not alone.. and it's not as bad as you think!
The truth is, we forget dogs aren't robots. Some people believe they should be, but l see them as having personalities, quirks, and even bad days - just like us.
Turns out, their behavior often mirrors ours more than we realize. l learned this the hard way!
For a long time, l was so focused on keeping my Malinois under control that l ended up creating more problems. Even my mentor had to remind me to loosen up! It hit me that many of the behaviours l was struggling with were reflections of my own mindset. It wasn't until l understood that/had to change that things started to fall into place.
Now that l know the secret, l want to share it with you!
Want to know how to finally have your dog to work with you instead of against you?
Drop me a message or comment "UNLEASH THE BEAST!" to get the inside scoop 😎
#DogTrainingTips #riask9 #dogtrainingadvice #dogtraining #dogtrainer #unleashthebeast #riask9 #riask9gloucester #doglife #PositiveDogTraining #DogtrainingHelp #gloucesterdogs #cheltenhamdogtrainer #cheltenhamdogs #tewkesbury #dogsofcheltenham #dogsofgloucester
Little Otto the foster is coming on nicely, one step at a time 🙌❤️
To register your interest for adoption contact Aura’s Dogs UK 🥰 we are looking for experienced, active adopters within 90 min radius from Gloucester UK but this is negotiable on a case by case basis 🙌 all shares are appreciated 😊
#rescuedogsuk #adoptadoguk #dogrescueuk #rescuedogs #dogrescue #aurasdogsuk #aurasdogs #gsd #fosterdog #germanshepherd #germanshepherdpuppy #nervousdogs #fearfuldogs #dogreactivity #DogTraining #dogsocialization #dogbehaviour #dogbehavior #dogtrainer #ukdogtrainer #dogtraineruk #dogtrainingshouldbefun #dogrehabilitation #Gloucester #cheltenham #tewkesbury #Gloucestershire #riask9
Contact information, map and directions, contact form, opening hours, services, ratings, photos, videos and announcements from Ria's K9, Dog trainer, Gloucester.
