04/11/2025
Feeling lost with positive reinforcement training? Not seeing the results you were hoping for? Feeling like it’s not working?
Here are 6 core elements to have in your R+ program to be successful!
1. Goals
Setting realistic goals for your dog is the only way to achieve them. At times we set the bar too high which will cause confusion, emotional imbalance, and frustration. To set these goals, take into consideration of your dog’s emotional state, previous learning steps, and success in teaching. If progress isn’t being made then maybe the goal is set too high.
2. Boundaries
Just because you are using positive reinforcement to train your dog does not mean we chuck boundaries out the window. Boundaries are important! You can set clear boundaries in a kind and positive manner.
3. Patience
I know, I know, you here it all the time but it’s true! Patience! Patience in teaching, patience with failures, patience with success, patience when it is difficult, and patience when it is easy. We are working with animals that express emotions differently and speak a different language. Have patience.
4. Management
To change behavior management must be set in place to stop repetition. Management is a key component that can be overlooked.
5. Consistency
There is no magical button that instantly changes or fixes behaviors. Staying consistent with the training plan is essential, even when there are hiccups.
6. Reinforcer
Finally, the golden ticket! Understanding how different reinforcers work for your dog will give you insight on what your dog enjoys. We don’t decide what the reinforcer is, the dog does. If they don’t have a drive for the reinforcer then it won’t work. Use what your dog enjoys and your training will sky rocket to a whole new level!
