Training a dog is not that easy as it sounds. A lot of people train their dogs using positive reinforcement and the most commonly used item is food. Are you also one of them? Then wait! Do you know there is a difference between a treat, reward and reinforcement? Most of the answers will be no. These three things are quite confusing, aren’t they? And it can affect the results you wish to achieve with your dog to a great extent.
Now let us check out the difference between these three below –
Treat
Treat is an item or event that is extraordinary and offers great pleasure. Therefore, you need to choose food that gives pleasure to your dog or excites him. However, treat does not necessarily have to be food, it can be some other items as well like any playing stuff and likewise.
- Reward
Reward is something that is given as a token of recognition of effort, achievement or service, so to get a reward the dog needs to perform certain activity. When you reward your dog for his good behavior or activity he will definitely continue this behavior to get rewarded. Again rewards can be anything!
- Reinforcement
Reinforcement is the process of strengthening the behavior of your pet. For instance, if by offering a piece of chicken your dog runs to you and there is probability that he will do so in the future then the piece of chicken is definitely strengthening his recall. In similar ways if your dog recalls to you when he sees certain playing stuff then that stuff can also help in strengthening his recalling power.
How does it matter?
Initially all the three things look the same! However they have different impacts on your dog’s behavior and activities. When you use treats or rewards while training your dog you need to use them wisely. The aim of using these things is to strengthen the desired behavior of your canine friend. If any stuff you are using in the training and your dog is not responding to that or ignoring you then that treat or reward is not reinforcing the desired behavior in your pet.
The solution to such problem is using things that the dog values or something that he loves. For instance if you are using food then choose the food that has strong smell such as hot dogs, chicken or cheese! Similarly, you can use toys, games or plays that excite them during your training. Creativity matters here!
However, the best way to get your dogs trained is using professional help. Dog training offered by professionals help your dog learn things easily and conveniently. If you are residing in Marlton, then you should look for a professional and experienced company offering dog training in Marlton NJ.
Note: Always remember a dog learns better when he is having fun during the training and professional dog training in Marlton NJ will make your dog learn with fun!
Conclusion:
Happy Tails offers professional dog training in Marlton NJ. They use numerous unique techniques to help your dog learn while having fun. For more information visit website.
